tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27969729279730704512024-03-13T05:34:40.579+01:00Liselotte's AdventuresA Step-by-step Guide to FreedomLiselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.comBlogger83125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-54329495550639527792022-03-09T22:53:00.000+01:002022-03-09T22:53:04.487+01:00Aligning with reality<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFrL1oFDCQmow6uneGVOxlShzAP8iDrTorCXXMEZeQFG75HqUhg0zWk1e2Ty2PvsQbZ0m9XX1ZPVD0b0tE4UQWqJ6H5cl6U9hdYRwQAZNglnzndnRfPIwED5KCHmsAZsIJ8Ob-mDaTP7x2x1Sq68-xpEntbRtY1_sN6rUCOX5xyVF8s6mpWPxWXMkb=s4000" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="4000" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFrL1oFDCQmow6uneGVOxlShzAP8iDrTorCXXMEZeQFG75HqUhg0zWk1e2Ty2PvsQbZ0m9XX1ZPVD0b0tE4UQWqJ6H5cl6U9hdYRwQAZNglnzndnRfPIwED5KCHmsAZsIJ8Ob-mDaTP7x2x1Sq68-xpEntbRtY1_sN6rUCOX5xyVF8s6mpWPxWXMkb=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">We often hear about the importance of forgiveness: we have to forgive in order to move forward. But I think there is something more important than that; something that makes forgiveness optional at best. And that is acknowledgement. It's not the same as acceptance either: Acceptance implies passivity and an affirming attitude towards what happened (or at least a kind of tolerance towards it). Acknowledgement is more elementary than that, as it doesn't matter whether you approve of what happened or not. It doesn't matter if you are okay with what happened, or if you would forgive everyone involved or not. Reality doesn't care about such things: it just is. It's not personal. The only thing that is personal is how we respond to it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Acknowledgement means that we simply acknowledge everything that happens in every moment: We acknowledge the things that happen that are out of our control (and focus on dealing with the consequences), we acknowledge what people show us in terms of who they are (which helps us respond appropriately and assertively) and we acknowledge and see what we can do about situations and people in order to protect ourselves and take care of ourselves (and do that). We don't live in illusions of what could be or what we want life to be (or not be). We don't lie to ourselves. We don't pretend we are more perfect than we are, or ignore flaws or even red flags in others; we see things as they are. We see clearly. This is the only thing needed to live a healthy, balanced life.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />When we see everything as it is, we will always respond appropriately. We can set healthy boundaries, and follow up with reasonable consequences; not as punishment, but because it is the sensible thing to do. Punishment comes from resistance against what is, while total acceptance and premature forgiveness can lead to resignation and complacency. None of those things are helpful, and I have seen many instances where acts of forgiveness have been actively harmful. What we need is balance; we need to be real, and live in reality -as it is, in each moment. When we can do that, and flow with what happens adaptively, we are always ready for life, no matter what it throws at us.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Acknowledgement treats all information as equal, because that is the key to staying open, flexible, balanced and fair. It doesn't engage in wishful thinking and doesn't take / make things personal. There is no need to defend, blame, punish, lie or manipulate. There is only reality, and without the (social) pressure to forgive, be kind, be polite or whatever other pressure we collectively put on ourselves, we will know what to do naturally, and appropriate action will follow.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />And if you have any doubts about what is real because you have been taught to question your reality (and haven't we all been there?), the first thing to do is look inward; to your own experience. That is the first reality. That is where true power is. It may help to see the outside world as a constant; not because it doesn't change, but because it is out of our (direct) control, and when we can truly see that - <i>acknowledge </i>that - we can respond in freedom and unrestricted by conditioning, fears, rigidity (habit), etc. When we truly acknowledge what is there, objectively (without merging with or disengaging from any part of it), it naturally results in a response that is free of conditioning, balanced, honest, authentic and fair. And paradoxically, that is what brings about change. That is what bringing about change from within means: It means knowing you can't change anything by force or by focusing on things outside yourself; only your natural response to the way things are in each and every moment can become the ripple that CAN bring about change.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Let's collectively tap into that power. There are no limits.</span><br /></p>Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-47994250803756506602021-06-01T16:35:00.000+02:002021-06-01T16:35:14.840+02:00Life Without Distractions: What is left?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6C6jFiYRGjU/YLY9UETBTwI/AAAAAAAAC4A/-9qZ6KT_l8QPjiAL6BzORZkGCOsKPWDOwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2508/IMG_20210528_015535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1254" data-original-width="2508" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6C6jFiYRGjU/YLY9UETBTwI/AAAAAAAAC4A/-9qZ6KT_l8QPjiAL6BzORZkGCOsKPWDOwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h200/IMG_20210528_015535.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>The pandemic has brought many changes to our day-to-day lives and most people have found this challenging in some way. What has happened and what can we learn from it? Lockdowns, restrictions, rules... No more travel (or a lot less), no more socializing (or a lot less) and no more going out / entertainment (or in a very restricted / limited way). In other words, you could say that Covid regulations have removed people's distractions, at least to some degree. With a life stripped of its distractions, what is left is the core of your life.</p><p>So this is a really good time to evaluate your life: What is left when you remove all the distractions? Are you happy with your life if there is no escape from it? Because if you can be happy with the core of your life, then not only is there no need for distractions, but it also gives you the confidence that you can be happy even in challenging times. You will have a great foundation for your life from which to create, build and expand, and this will give you the opportunity to build up reserves in good times for the more challenging times. Most people do not have these reserves, because they already live a life on the edge, where even in neutral times their life is evaluated - on balance - as just "doable". We need to aim for better than a doable or manageable life, and aim for joy instead! An abundant life filled with inspiration, freedom and peace of mind, coming from the very core of your life's setup. And yes, this <i>is</i> possible!<br /></p><p>I think at this moment in time many people are finding that they are not happy: The life they were living was only manageable <i>because of</i> the distractions and temporary escapes that they had built into their routine. They made life manageable by implementing 'solutions' that only targeted the symptoms, but not the root cause. But now that we can no longer remedy the symptoms, we need to look at the root cause. Many people are getting divorced / breaking up, making plans to move to a different home / location / country, reconsidering their job / career options, etc, because they realize they don't feel comfortable where they are without regular and reliable escape-options.<br /></p><p>I consider these shifts and changes that are occurring a good thing, even though it may seem drastic and radical at this time. However, it is a great way (and necessary) to find out what we <i>really </i>want: we can restructure our lives from the core, and see what <i>really </i>brings happiness. It's never distractions that bring happiness: those are just temporary forms of relief that might make life more bearable. But what is at the core? And what would you like the core of your life to consist of or bring to you in order to live a happy, free, peaceful and fulfilling life?</p><p>In this sense, Covid is a blessing for many. We get to re-evaluate our lives with a very clear understanding of what is structural and permanent, versus temporary and fleeting. We can also learn to distinguish clearly between temporary delights / excitement (diversions) and permanent happiness (joy). The latter is a more peaceful kind of joy and also more durable, lasting even in challenging times and stressful situations. This sense of peace is crucial: if you don't feel that at least <i>in addition</i> to the excitement, you are likely dealing with a diversion instead.<br /></p><p>Lastly, like any other challenge in life, this pandemic can make us creative: How can we still do the things that make us happy, despite current restrictions? These are valuable questions, and they may lead you to discoveries about your life you would not have made otherwise.</p><p>So reap the rewards of this pandemic, and evaluate your life today: What is at its core? Does it bring you true, lasting happiness? And if not, or not entirely, what is it that you really need, and which steps should you take in order to bring this into your life?</p><p>Remember, it is never too late to change, and today is a great day for it.<br /></p>Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-26249461050071434892021-01-12T15:56:00.015+01:002021-06-01T17:39:29.388+02:00The Myth of the Soulmate<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></span></p><div class="kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKzpSWFBa9A/X_2uZf-pDlI/AAAAAAAAC0M/V0cxJTMxlAgbnhhqm1LWRqZabPx30IUkQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_20200704_235930.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKzpSWFBa9A/X_2uZf-pDlI/AAAAAAAAC0M/V0cxJTMxlAgbnhhqm1LWRqZabPx30IUkQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20200704_235930.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>I used to believe in the concept of a "Soulmate", but not anymore. In fact, I have come to see that a belief in such a concept can be quite harmful (and perhaps even keep us from developing our very own soulmate-like relationship). I think buying into the concept of a perfect soulmate can be harmful in two ways:</span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>1. It can keep people who are in relationships from investing in their current relationship and from committing to the other person (these are people with active commitment issues), and</span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>2. (most commonly) It can encourage people who are looking for a relationship to look for excitement and passion ("chemistry") rather than what feels safe and secure (and thus maybe also "boring" to some), which almost guarantees that they will choose the wrong partner (e.g. someone who seems exciting, but is unwilling, unable or unavailable to make a commitment). Because in the end, what matters most is that we feel safe and at ease with somebody. Excitement will wear off quickly; usually within a few months. What comes after that (or remains after that) is the love connection we can build with the other person, <i>if</i> both individuals are willing <i>and </i>there are enough building blocks between them. But people with active issues who are looking for a soulmate might give up too soon on a relationship, even if it has real soulmate-quality-potential, because it may take some time and effort to develop. And soulmate seekers with passive issues might stay in unhealthy relationships for (far) too long, or start relationships they shouldn't start, because they keep hoping that their partner will change (usually either that the partner will want to commit or that they will transform into the soulmate they've been looking for).<br /></span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>I’ve been stuck at 2 most of my life (as a passive seeker), and always seemed to come across men who were either unwilling to make a commitment (sometimes despite a great and deep connection <span><span><span class="d2edcug0 hpfvmrgz qv66sw1b c1et5uql rrkovp55 a8c37x1j keod5gw0 nxhoafnm aigsh9s9 d3f4x2em fe6kdd0r mau55g9w c8b282yb iv3no6db jq4qci2q a3bd9o3v knj5qynh oo9gr5id hzawbc8m" dir="auto">(this is the most painful)</span></span></span>), or were a serious mismatch with me due to a major difference in values or lifestyle, which I always thought I could "fix". Coming to the realization that all my relationships were doomed from the start was both tragic and freeing, because now I can (and will) change it! Goodbye Illusions; welcome Reality...</span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><span><span><span class="d2edcug0 hpfvmrgz qv66sw1b c1et5uql rrkovp55 a8c37x1j keod5gw0 nxhoafnm aigsh9s9 d3f4x2em fe6kdd0r mau55g9w c8b282yb iv3no6db jq4qci2q a3bd9o3v knj5qynh oo9gr5id hzawbc8m" dir="auto">Now, instead of dreaming about an elusive "perfect" Soulmate that I can either try to find or (more likely) try to <i>create</i>, I simply see myself as having things in common with other people; and I have more in common with some than with others. What matters most when we are looking for a partner, is that we have the <i>right </i>things in common with them; those things
that matter most (mainly important values, age group and lifestyle choices).
This will not only prevent conflict about major decisions (as much as
possible), but will also make you both feel safe and secure in each
other's presence. On top of that, I think a willingness to grow and
learn (for both partners individually as well as a willingness to grow
together in the relationship) is very important.</span></span></span> And of course honesty and openness with a healthy, loving communication style (such as NVC).<br /></span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>By the way, after you give up the dream, the result is still more or
less the same: You still meet the same people, but you might take a bit
more time to assess whether you actually want to be in a relationship
with them, also allowing the relationship more time to grow and mature at a more natural pace, without rushing toward relationship milestones. And the relationship you get into might still be (or become) the best
you have ever had, and even better than you may have imagined it.... <i>and </i>it
will be with a Real person (not with a fantasy or image of a person).
So even if you don't feel magic instantly, it doesn't mean you can't <i>create </i>it or <i>build </i>it, together, in real life!</span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> </span></span></span> <br /></span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>You, too, might be stuck in life due to the soulmate-myth, if:</span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>- You tend to fall in love with a fantasy <i>image </i>rather than a real person that has strengths as well as flaws.</span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>- You feel like your relationships are often one-sided, with you (or the other person) doing most of the work to keep the relationship going and keep it healthy.<br /></span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>- You see someone's "potential" to be a good partner rather than what they actually present to you right now in the moment... (Almost) everyone has potential, but not everyone is ready right now! Are you ready now? Then seek someone who is ready now, too.<br /></span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>- In the beginning of a relationship, you focus on what you want to hear and want to see, and filter out all the rest.</span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>- You sabotage all (or some of) your relationships (especially when they are going well, or reach a more stable point).</span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>- You engage in excessive fault-finding (about unimportant and sometimes unreasonable things).</span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>- You break up with someone for a quality that was already present at the beginning and that may have even attracted you to them at first.<br /></span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><span><span><span class="d2edcug0 hpfvmrgz qv66sw1b c1et5uql rrkovp55 a8c37x1j keod5gw0 nxhoafnm aigsh9s9 d3f4x2em fe6kdd0r mau55g9w c8b282yb iv3no6db jq4qci2q a3bd9o3v knj5qynh oo9gr5id hzawbc8m" dir="auto">- Your relationships always seem to be lacking a feeling of "equality" in some important area.</span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>- And you don't have to be single to have these issues either: some people stay in unhealthy relationships for a lifetime or hang on to unhealthy patterns within their relationships for too long.</span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> <br /></span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>If you recognize any of these points, I recommend that you read: He's Scared, She's Scared. This book is an absolute treasure, and I wish I had found (and read) it years ago. It's a valuable book for anyone to read, as commitment issues (whether <i>passive </i>- rushing into commitment without a reality check - or <i>active </i>- fear of commitment) is such a common thing these days, and seems to only become more and more common. It is also one of the most painful things anyone can experience in their lifetimes (if you're the passive partner), and to have to go through it over and over is absolute torture. So end your suffering and learn about this, question your thoughts and gain a renewed sense of peace in (your quest for) love.</span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aoZAnN4Tq2s/X_3kMaEpdxI/AAAAAAAAC0o/rvxEhQJiJes4w3iVAlG4CTNfT9ZToezCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_20200704_233436.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aoZAnN4Tq2s/X_3kMaEpdxI/AAAAAAAAC0o/rvxEhQJiJes4w3iVAlG4CTNfT9ZToezCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20200704_233436.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <br />A little side-note, and a comforting thought in case you have longed for a soulmate for a long time, and therefore are hesitant to give up the dream for that reason: There <i>is </i>indeed one <i>Real </i>Soulmate, already with you, since day one... </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>I am sure you know who that is... </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span> </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>It's you! You're the one. You've always been there with you. Can you be there <i>for </i>you as well, at all times? </span></span></span></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>Love yourself first, don't abandon yourself, listen to yourself and stay with you at all times, and then you'll always choose right. It can sometimes become harder to listen to (= act on) our own inner voice when we're around someone we really like (especially in the infatuation stage), but as with anything: It will get easier with practice, and patience. So practice (with) patience!</span></span></span></div></div><p></p>Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-88824156180831585642020-12-29T12:22:00.003+01:002021-01-12T12:22:55.900+01:00Gratitude in Challenging Times: Everything Is A Gift<p>Many of us have had quite a turbulent year, and not just because of the pandemic. Of course it is easy to see the gifts in events and situations we evaluate as positive, but the biggest rewards come when we are able to see the gift in everything… <i>EVERYTHING</i>. This year has given most of us a particularly good opportunity to learn and practice this, and now we can reflect on this year and see if we can recognize the gift in all of it.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S1XvhQfaryQ/X-r8LcK8HbI/AAAAAAAACzc/MjrxSQ3zZvgZWosHpBh5M1OwotXMNkSJACLcBGAsYHQ/s1808/cropped%2Bpicture.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1436" data-original-width="1808" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S1XvhQfaryQ/X-r8LcK8HbI/AAAAAAAACzc/MjrxSQ3zZvgZWosHpBh5M1OwotXMNkSJACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/cropped%2Bpicture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><b>Challenges always have a gift</b><br />Being confronted with a
challenging situation is always an opportunity. It offers you a choice
in how you are going to deal with it or react to it, an opportunity to learn about yourself (to see who you are
and how far you’ve come), and usually also an opportunity to give. And
giving or responding with love is a gift to yourself as well. <br />Often
we can see the gift of a tough situation in hindsight, but we can also
train ourselves to see it in the moment. That was the focus of this year
for me. Can I see the gifts life brings as it happens, as the events are
unfolding? And it turns out, I can. Maybe not always instantly, but often not long after. And so can you.<br />If
you are looking back on a grim year that had nothing to offer, think
again. Make it a challenge to look back on the year and find the hidden
gifts that were there all along. Look for the gift in each moment,
especially the challenging moments. Stay present and in touch with your
emotions – they can guide you like a compass. Look into the present.
Really, look into it. Go deep. Fully open up to it. Where are you holding back? Where are you resisting? Where can you let go? If you fully surrender to the present moment, then you’re bound to
find the gifts. You will find that life can never stop giving; it
always gives to those who are open. Once you see it, it will be
overwhelming. Can you handle it? Can you be open to it? Can you
surrender to it? If you can and you do, then you will find only beauty, bliss and blessings.<br />This is the secret: <i>you can only receive a gift in the moment if you are open to receiving
all of them (in that same moment)</i>. So don’t close yourself off from the
challenges life brings, because then you will also close yourself off from all the
love and joy and fulfillment <i>in those times</i> <i>you perceive as</i> <i>challenging</i>. So if you are feeling depressed... what gifts are you missing?<br /><br /><b>Emotions each have their gift</b><br />We tend to see emotions as either negative or positive (and want only the positive), but they are neither. If we can get in touch with our emotional world, and stay connected with it without judging it or suppressing it, and without being overwhelmed by it nor dismissing it, we can always be peaceful, connected, balanced and even joyful. Emotions can be (and often should be) seen as separate from the triggers that seem to cause them; this is a way to observe them objectively and take in their message. Emotions keep you connected to your Self, and show you how to navigate through life, coming out stronger and more balanced. Emotions show us where personal growth, healing, or a shift in perspective are needed, or where we are resisting something or holding on too tightly. In combination with thought, they are a compass for finding our way. They always point us in the right direction, if we know how to listen.<br />Here are some emotions that some people would label as ‘negative’ and the gifts they bring:<br /></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Anger: Anger is a sign that someone has crossed your boundaries, or (most likely) that you have crossed your own boundaries in some way (like not listening to the signals of other emotions, or doing things for others just because you feel like you have to in order to get accepted by them). It can also be an attempt to suppress a (seemingly) more painful emotion such as sadness, and an attempt to experience a (false) sense of control over it. Anger can help you set boundaries, be assertive, communicate your needs, or be a sign that you lost touch with some suffering underneath the surface. In that case, try to slow down and find the pain that is hidden underneath.<br /></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Sadness and grief: Urge you to slow down and take notice of the pain, and to direct healing to where it is necessary. It urges us to look after ourselves and engage in self-care. Sadness is an exercise in healthy self-love. It also shows you that you care, and it can easily transform into gratitude if fully felt/experienced.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Worry/Stress: This is a chance for you to do a reality check: are my worries realistic? What evidence is there that these thoughts are true? What evidence is there that they are not true? What would I tell someone I loved if they were in this situation and had these thoughts? In this situation, what is the worst that could happen? In this situation, what is the best thing that could happen? Are these thoughts hindering me in major ways in my life, preventing me to achieve or pursue things that are important to me and/or could bring me a (deeper) sense of fulfillment? Asking yourself these questions can help you determine whether it is best to avoid the situation, or develop a skill and/or courage to overcome your limiting beliefs. Usually, working to overcome your limiting beliefs is the best choice of action here, because you can always avoid the situation later if you still feel the same about it afterwards! But then at least you are not avoiding it out of fear or worry, and you can make a more balanced decision. Fear, worry and stress often cloud our judgment and when left unchecked might make us (not) do things that we'll regret later (sometimes many years later). Recurring worries might indicate that you need to let go of the need for a secure future. There is no such thing! Worry and stress can also be signs that you would benefit from some serious self-care strategies: get some rest, read a book, take a break. The world often looks much brighter after a good night's sleep!<br /></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Guilt: Guilt is a sign that we have done something that is in conflict with our own values. If you see it as something that can guide you to be a better person or to set things right, then things will turn back into balance very quickly. And it will feel really good! Guilt can help us stay true to ourselves and move through life with integrity. Setting things right, or following our moral compass to begin with, will give us a strong sense of self-respect. And if you feel like you've lost your way... it's never too late to set things right and start over!<br /></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Fear: Fear can be an alert to danger. However, most of our fears are imagined and irrational. Overcoming our fears can give us confidence and courage, and make us more complete and balanced as human beings. When fears are not adequately, objectively and thoroughly explored, it can lead to many reinforcing thoughts where we end up scaring ourselves and sustaining the problem by avoiding confrontation. So make sure to apply the reality check, find the roots of your fears, and pull them out like weeds (see also the worry/stress part). Emotions that result from thought are never pure, and as you get more in touch with your emotional world, you will learn to see the difference more and more clearly and quickly.<br /></li></ul><p><b>The gifts of (lost) romantic love</b><br /></p><blockquote><i>It’s better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all</i></blockquote>I lost two romantic relationships this year, one at the beginning of the year and one at the very end. The first one ended because it had reached its natural expiration date - and so it was a relief when it ended. The latter was much harder to deal with, even though it lasted for a shorter time, because I didn't (and still don't) understand why it had to end. It feels like I have waited my whole life for the kind of connection we had (and to some degree still have), only to find that it is out of my reach...<p></p><p>When romantic love is lost untimely, it hurts. But something beautiful can happen when we stay in touch with our pain in that moment. Be thankful for the pain as well as the beautiful moments you shared together and the joy it brought to your life (which is probably still there to some extend). You can’t exclude one without excluding the other; the only way is to fully, wholeheartedly be open to both. Stay in touch with yourself; hold yourself. Take this opportunity to see that you can handle the pain; that there is no need to be afraid of it. That you can stay open and connected to yourself (and by extension, to others also), now and in the future. And notice that, when you experience it in this way (i.e. feeling the empowerment in your own vulnerability, without resistance to the pain and without wallowing in it - staying in touch with both the joy and the pain in a balanced way), they merge. This is what some call (universal) Love, which is much greater than romantic love. And in that place, when fully embraced, all pain vanishes and/or transforms, leaving you just with a full heart, overflowing with Love and gratitude. <br /><br />Also, lost love is an illusion. Heartbreak is an illusion. For you can never <i>lose </i>the love you felt (even though it feels that way sometimes, especially when our gift of love is not received or reciprocated by the other person), because the love you felt for him or her was never theirs; it was <i>yours</i>. It originated from you and will stay with you, and you can always choose to continue feeling/giving it (silently or expressed); there is no reason to stop the flow of love unless we want to punish ourselves. And staying in touch with <i>your </i>love, the love you feel, also doesn't prevent you from saying goodbye if that is what you need to do. Love can be felt in any situation, whether from a distance or up close. The love you feel is <i>your </i>gift to the world. There is no way you can lose it, but the only way to feel it and be aware of it is to give it away / let it flow through you freely (as <i>universal love</i>, in its many forms). </p><p>Don't limit yourself to feeling and expressing love only in a romantic relationship. Try to experience love and caring and appreciation (for yourself and others and nature) in <i>everything </i>you do. Love is still with(in) you; so share it, feel it and enjoy it. Whether others receive your gift of Love is their business, but really it doesn't matter, because just the act of giving is <i>always </i>a gift to yourself first. If you can find someone who appreciates your gift and is as open to (giving and receiving) it as you are, even better: after all, most things are better when they are shared. And don't be surprised if your gift of love (whether silently experienced or expressed) inspires others to open up in response. So don’t allow the world to extinguish your flame; instead, shine your light on the world and allow it to transform <i>all </i>(within and without) as a result.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7y3e6x3lBqs/X-sRQeDTxCI/AAAAAAAACzo/YUnZO0UN8h8vJwMxqHAo2DSU7Ev5Q1ZJQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2508/IMG_20201226_122051.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1254" data-original-width="2508" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7y3e6x3lBqs/X-sRQeDTxCI/AAAAAAAACzo/YUnZO0UN8h8vJwMxqHAo2DSU7Ev5Q1ZJQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_20201226_122051.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>Trust that life will have gifts to offer <i>no matter what happens in the future</i>, and let go of the need for security (definite answers) or wanting to control outcomes. Also, accept the past, as we can't change it. In other words, surrender to the present moment. That is the key to receiving its many gifts.</p><p>In one of my next posts I will outline some specific tools that I use for working through emotions and staying in touch with my true (loving) nature. <br /></p>Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-23876707751972734192018-12-14T08:54:00.001+01:002018-12-14T09:28:42.902+01:00Random Acts of Kindness For The EarthHere are some gift ideas for our Earth this Christmas (and the rest of the year of course). If we are all mindful of these things, we can make a huge difference! These are also fun challenges to set for the New Year, in case you are looking for rewarding and meaningful New Year's resolutions. And a hidden bonus: a gift to the earth is always a gift to yourself as well.<b> </b><br />
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<b>1. Don't buy gifts this Christmas; or even stop buying stuff altogether </b><br />
This is one of the most effective ways to help the earth, with many personal rewards (financial, emotional, mental and spiritual). Instead of giving gifts, you can give your time, love, attention and affection to show how much you care. Or get creative and make some gifts!<br />
If you want a more hardcore challenge and an even bigger positive impact and reward, see the <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2015/06/the-stop-shopping-challenge.html">Stop shopping Challenge</a> for more details on how to get started, and the entire section on <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.com/p/living-free.html">moneyless living</a> on this blog. Most societies throw away enough for you to live comfortably without ever spending any money. It includes all you need (food, clothes, etc) and even all the things you don't really need.<br />
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<b>2. Appreciate nature</b><br />
Most of us take our beautiful planet and all of its resources for granted most of the time, because we are not in tune (=disconnected) and get too distracted by other (trivial) matters. So go outside and enjoy the fresh air, the trees, the flowers, animals, insects, and everything else that makes our home planet unique.<br />
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<b>3. Check out the environmental footprint of your next or latest purchase</b><br />
The result may surprise you. For example, some of the clothes we buy have a huge environmental
impact. Did you know that it takes about 1800 gallons of water to grow
enough cotton to make just one pair of jeans? The production of clothes
also contributes quite significantly to air pollution and the pollution
of rivers. That’s a good reason to shop second-hand. I have not bought more than 5 new clothing items (including shoes/excluding underwear) in the last
20 years. I think that is doable for everyone with all the great
secondhand shops everywhere. Clothing swaps are another option if you
like to update your wardrobe regularly.<br />
When checking the environmental impact of a product, make sure you include all steps of the process: pre-production, production, distribution, delivery, consumption (including durability and environmental impacts of using the item) and waste (e.g. packaging/non-recyclable parts). If you still want or need the product, there may be ways to reduce your environmental footprint by choosing a different brand/company, or making it yourself.<br />
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<b>4. Reduce your dependence on utility companies, or move off the grid (eventually)</b><br />
You can save water by having shorter showers (or keeping your body clean by swimming in the
ocean / river / lake), hand-washing your clothes, and growing plants that suit
your local climate (and don't need as much water). If you are looking for lifestyle changes rather than one-off random acts of kindness, you can even take steps towards moving off the grid, or practice being more self-sufficient. For example, you could start collecting rain water and use it to water your veggie garden. <br />
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<b>5. Ride your bicycle or walk</b><br />
European cars emit around 120 grams of CO2 per kilometer. You can save one pound of CO2 for each mile. Plus cycling and walking are way more fun and good for your health! I will write a post about the joys of walking and cycling soon.<br />
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<b>6. Pick up trash when you see it</b><br />
Always carry a bag to gather trash you may find on your way. You may even find usable stuff! You can find the strangest things out in the wild.<br />
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<b>7. Consider your diet</b><br />
Aim for locally-grown, organic, in season, unpackaged and mostly plant-based foods. It's good for the earth, and good for you.<br />
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More ideas to live an environmentally friendly lifestyle can be found <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2015/07/10-ways-to-adopt-more-environmentally.html">here</a> and more information about reducing your environmental footprint can be found <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/01/Footprint.html">here</a>. Or get inspired by this list with more <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.com/2016/01/Kindness.html">Random acts of kindness</a> (probably a bit more random than the ideas in this post).<br />
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<i>Let me know if anything is missing from the list, or what your commitment will be this Christmas / for the upcoming year / the rest of your life.</i><br />
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<b>💚 Happy holidays! 💚</b><br />
<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-31920875693961392172017-12-29T13:08:00.000+01:002017-12-29T13:08:07.222+01:00What To Do With Beer: It's Too Good To Drink It!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We've been finding a lot of beer lately, not only in the dumpsters but also at the bottom of our food supply - completely forgotten because nobody drinks it. I don't drink alcoholic beverages of any kind (I never liked them), so what to do with it then? Well, luckily none of it has to go to waste, and here is (in my opinion) the best way to use beer.<br />
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First, you separate the alcohol from the beer, with a homemade "still". You can easily make one yourself; check <a href="https://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Still">here</a> for ideas. The easiest is the solar still! The boiling point of alcohol is around 78C, so if you can maintain the temperature of your still around 80C, that is the best way to separate it. Now you have liquid that has a high percentage of alcohol, plus the beer without alcohol. You may need a lot of bottles to get enough alcohol out of it, or you can grow more by <a href="https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Alcohol-from-Common-Table-Sugar">adding water, sugar and yeast</a> and then distilling it again later.<br />
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Now you can use the alcohol to make <a href="https://wellnessmama.com/8168/herbal-tinctures/">(medicinal) tinctures</a>; just use your favorite dried herbs and let them soak in the alcohol (it's best if the purity of the alcohol is 40% (80 proof) or higher) for at least 6 weeks up to 6 months. And then it's ready! You can add a few drops in your drink as vitamin/mineral supplement or as (preventative) medicine. Of course you need to make sure you know what the herbs do. You can find out more about herbal medicine <a href="http://naturalingredient.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/HerbalMedicines,Thirdedition-JoanneBarnesJ.DavidPhillipsonLindaA.Anderson.pdf">with this book</a>, and there are many others available online for free.<br />
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Then what to do with the rest of the beer? You use it to wash your hair, of course :) Beer without alcohol has a very sweet and lovely smell, and it nurtures your hair (with alcohol it will make it dry, but without it you just get all the benefits from the B-vitamins). You don't even need to wash it out. It gives your hair shine and volume, and people will probably compliment you on your hair immediately.<br />
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That's it! The best way to use beer :)<br />
<br />Tinctures and "shampoo"!<br />
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<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-42459761946350883012017-12-29T12:04:00.000+01:002017-12-29T13:57:34.963+01:00The Benefits of FastingWhat better time to fast than right after Christmas? Or even DURING Christmas for the warriors among us! :)<br />
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There are so many benefits to fasting, and in many cultures and traditions it is a recurring part of life, and for good reason. I try to fast at least once a year for a couple of days, although lately I have been fasting more regularly due to the often large amounts of food I get exposed to, which are not always the most healthy. That is in fact the only downside of dumpster diving: it comes with lots of temptations, and it requires high levels of self-control and discipline to not get carried away at least once in a while.<br />
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There are many different types of fasting, but my favorite routine goes something like this:<br />
I drink a cup of warm (not hot - for the sake of vitamins) herbal tea twice a day (morning and evening), which I supplement with <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.nl/2017/12/Beer.html">home-made multivitamin tinctures</a>, I drink fruit juices during the day (freshly made or bottled), and (optional) I eat some fruit and/or light vegetables in the evening. That's it! I usually start by including the fruit and veg in the evening and after a day or two I feel ready to skip that as well.<br />
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The benefits of fasting are numerous: You feel more energetic, it improves blood circulation, you feel (and are) more productive and you cleanse your body and mind on the deepest possible level. Combine it with meditation, some light daily stretching or yoga and breathing exercises, and it will be the best thing you can do for your health.<br />
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If you fast this way, you can probably keep it going for a long time (even a couple of months if you feel that you need to), but of course always listen to your body. Every body is different. And ALWAYS supplement with <i>natural </i>vitamins and minerals, preferably in liquid form (not the usual cheap supplements from the store). Best to make your own so that you know what's in it! And when you do feel like eating again, make sure it is something healthy and build up again slowly.<br />
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Here's to a healthy 2018 for everyone! :)<br />
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<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-59197905119840404442017-12-17T19:54:00.000+01:002017-12-17T20:12:53.171+01:00How to Eat Egg Shells<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you enjoy <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2015/07/dumpster-diving-101.html">dumpster diving</a> like me, then sooner or later you are probably going to find a lot of eggs. Cartons of eggs can get thrown out in large quantities when the date expires (but usually they remain edible for weeks or even months after that), or every now and then you may find one or two cartons that have a broken egg, or a missing egg. Usually most of the other eggs are still fine. In the latter case, the eggs may even still be quite fresh, or even superfresh: they may have gotten damaged while they were being put on the shelf. Make sure to check the eggs just before consuming them by submerging them in cold water. If they remain under water, they are still fine. If they start to float, then don't eat them anymore.<br />
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Anyway, if you and your friends/family eat a lot of eggs, you will also have a lot of egg shells. Most people throw these away, but I recently discovered they have great nutritional value (it consists of about 95% calcium carbonate). So I decided to dedicate a blog post about it.<br />
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<b>How to eat egg shells</b><br />
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1. Boil and peel eggs, or make an omelette and save the shells. It is probably best not to wait too long before going on to step 2.<br />
2. Boil the egg shells for 6-10 minutes to remove all bacteria.<br />
3. Let the egg shells dry overnight on a baking sheet.<br />
4. Put the egg shells in the oven on 100-120 C (or 200-250 Fahrenheit) for about 10 mins to make sure they are dry and clean.<br />
5. Put them in your favorite coffee grinder / mortar until you have egg shell powder.<br />
6. Store in glass container. <br />
7. Enjoy half a teaspoon twice a day in your drinks or meals.<br />
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<u>Tip 1:</u> Let half a teaspoon of egg shell powder soak in the juice of half a lemon for 6 hours to lose the grainy texture.<br />
<u>Tip 2:</u> It is best to take this 'supplement' with an equal or slightly higher dose of magnesium, because calcium and magnesium work together. Half a teaspoon of calcium is equal to approximately 400 mgs calcium. Add in D3 and K2 for additional benefits!<br />
<u>Tip 3:</u> You can also use the powder in your garden to enrich the soil, or you can sprinkle crushed shells around plants to protect them from slugs and snails. Or feed them to your chickens, or to birds in spring.<br />
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#Recycling matters<br />
#Zero waste lifestyle<br />
<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-2685534687987377132017-09-04T14:13:00.000+02:002018-06-02T10:11:03.049+02:00Steps For Creating A Vision Board: Reshaping Your Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When we are clear on what we really want out of life, the
universe will suddenly align in new, unexpected and mysterious ways to make
things happen that previously might have seemed unattainable, highly unlikely or simply impossible. Even before I created <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.nl/2017/08/VisionBoard.html">my first vision board</a>, I have seen
this principle (of the Determined Mind) work its magic in countless areas of my life (job opportunities, travels, dumpster finds, the entire
journey to moneyless living, etc). Now I am also starting to see that a vision board can serve as a great (daily) reminder of our hopes, dreams and priorities in life. It can help us remain focused on what we truly want rather than what we don't want, and it can also help us catch any self-sabotage, subconscious resistance, or doubts that might crop up (as well as blind spots, double standards and hypocrisy) so that we can nip them in the bud. <br />
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As with most things in life, the actual <i>process</i> of creating a vision board is far
more powerful than the final product, because it brings us clarity along the way. A clear, uncluttered, conscious and determined mind is what we need to create the life of our imagination. It works because when we are clear on what we truly want and focus on those aspects of our lives, we no longer resist whatever else happens. When all our focus is on what truly matters to us - what makes us feel truly alive - then everything else pales into insignificance. It doesn't matter anymore. It falls away. It literally disappears from our world. If you no longer give it any attention, it ceases to exist. That is how you rebuild your world. You can starve the parts of your life that no longer serve you by just refocusing your attention on what matters to you most.<br />
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Attention is always selective, so it's not a matter of either focusing your attention or not. We are always in the process of creating a new world, whether we do it consciously or not. Therefore it is important to focus <i>with awareness</i>, so that you can create consciously. And a vision board is a great way to get started.<br />
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Here are my personal guidelines for creating a vision board:<br />
<br />
<b>1. Think about what you really, really want.</b> This is probably the hardest (and most important) part. Sometimes we think we want certain things, but upon closer inspection we just <i>believe </i>we want them. Maybe we <i>really </i>want something different. Also, sometimes we set the bar too low, due to limiting beliefs. What would you really want if there were no limitations? What makes your heart sing when you think about it? What would make you <i>excited</i> to be alive? How would you like to feel in this world? What kind of world would you like to live in?<br />
Make sure you don't go for too much comfort. Remember that <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/03/Comfort.html">comfort kills growth</a>. What would make all the pain worthwhile? What would make you forget about it altogether? If it's something you can find within your own heart, then that would be even better. No one can ever take that away.<br />
<b>2. Make a selection of your own favorite photos</b> (and perhaps some from the Internet for things that haven't happened yet, or that you don't have suitable photos for); the ones that make you feel so enthusiastic and happy that you forget about everything else - even if just for a moment. Photos that make you laugh, or that remind you of good times or good qualities of yourself. Next, match those photos to the themes you selected for your vision board.<br />
<b>3. Write a detailed description of all the themes</b> so that it is clear in your mind what you are going for. I kept adjusting the description until just reading the text made me feel enthusiastic and happy about the future. You can read the description I wrote for my themes in the second half of <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.nl/2017/08/VisionBoard.html">this post</a>.<br />
<b>4. For each theme add affirmations, action steps</b> and perhaps even powerful songs that make you feel happy, enthusiastic, empowered or peaceful - such as <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gExqggkU4Yw">this one</a>.<br />
The most important steps to manifest your dreams are step 5 and 6:<br />
<b>5. Make sure your thoughts, words <i>and </i>actions are all in alignment with your goals.</b> This helps you to stay mindful and alert of possible limiting beliefs that need to be worked through as well as self-sabotage (e.g. inaction).<br />
<b>6. Completely let go of any outcome and realize that your life is already wonderful as it is.</b> <i>Enjoy the process of becoming</i>.<br />
Whenever I look at my vision board - because of the happy pictures I have chosen - I am reminded how great my life has already been so far and I would
not want to waste a moment of it by focusing on what *might* be missing. If you
focus on what is missing in your life, you actually miss everything that
is already right here, right now, making your life wonderful. Looking at my vision board I also feel excited about what's yet to come - on such a deep level that I know and feel that I would not want to settle for anything less than the highest vision (depicted on the board). <i>If </i>it were to require some time to materialize, it would be so worth the wait - no matter how long it would take. And even if my dreams would never materialize at all, it <i>still </i>wouldn't matter because I am <i>living my truth</i> authentically. This is what life is about for me. Time no longer matters when you have chosen your highest vision. When even time loses its significance, looking at the vision board makes you feel like you are already there, celebrating your life as what you envisioned. And when your mind is no longer in the way, that is the truth. <br />
<b>7. Review your board from time to time and change it as you change.</b><br />
<br />
Creating a personal vision board is a fun, empowering and freeing experience. The mind is a powerful force. It is important to remember that. Therefore, take it seriously, and spend some contemplative time on the first step. Your focus can literally change the world. If we make our focus too narrow or focus on things that only benefit ourselves, we run the risk of becoming blind for others' experiences, and others' suffering. However, if we focus on creating values that benefit all beings, then we can transform the world together.<br />
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<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-1575981186972495172017-09-01T14:12:00.002+02:002017-09-01T14:12:38.031+02:00My 3-Year Moneyless Journey In Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />It has been almost three years since I started <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2015/06/the-stop-shopping-challenge.html">the Stop Shopping Challenge</a>, and since I started this blog. Also, with my PhD almost coming to an end, I feel that this is a perfect time for review.<br />
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Granted, I have not lived 100% moneyless for the entire time (only for about 2.5 years with <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/12/BreakMoney.html">some breaks</a> in between), and I have not lived solely off of nature (without any help from others) for more than a few days. For example, I have still used tap water for most of the time and (public) internet connections. This is why I prefer to define the journey as a <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/07/Rules.html">'rewilding' experience</a>. But what's in the name, right? For me it is the experience that counts.<br />
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The experience was about letting go of the attachment to money. The way I chose to do this was to find ways to live 100% without bills and without spending money (with just a few <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2015/12/2015.html">exceptions</a>). Because living moneyless took the focus off of money, it allowed me to reconnect to everything that brings real, tangible value to my life: friendships (with humans and other animals), food, nature, meditation, etc. <br />
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We all grow up with and get used to the idea that money is what gives us access to everything we need. Over the years, we start to (unconsciously) desire money and we forget our true desires. In exchange for choosing money over everything else, we lose our connection with everything that has real, inherent value. Nature, love, friendships, time (being present). It becomes an unconscious fixation and obsession for most of us that gets connected to everything we do. We start living more in the future rather than in the now; always working for a better life somewhere down the track.<br />
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We don't realize how deep this (dis-)connection goes until we start letting go of it. We long for money because we think it buys us what we really need and
desire, but in fact it is a sham. Money has no value and chasing empty
goals can only bring misery in the end. When we let go of this illusion,
we can see clearly once again.<br />
<br />
Here are some of the things that my moneyless journey has helped me do. <br />
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<b>Being mindful and observant</b><br />
I see more because I was not part of the system for a while. This new way of life has given me a new perspective for looking at the world. It is easier to observe the forest when you are not walking through it. It is easier to see the water when you are not submerged in it. And similarly, it is easier to observe society when you step back and cease to participate in it for a while.<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>Living in the moment</b><br />
Without the fear of <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.com/2015/08/Jobless.html">losing a job</a> or the pressure of having to make money to survive (knowing I can always count on nature), it is far easier to relax and enjoy the moment. Stress is a thing of the past when we can live the way nature intended: without worries about the future, in the abundance of <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2015/08/Forage.html">what nature provides</a>, flowing with the seasons. I have also learned to have more patience and to accept (or love) things as they are, which is easy to do once you see that nothing is static but rather in a constant state of change... no matter how slow. I have learned to trust life and to believe in miracles. I know everything that needs to happen will happen in due time. This doesn't mean I have become complacent. I have learned to step up to the plate when I am able to do something to help another
being without causing harm. And when it is clearly not up to me, then I have learned to let go without losing sight of what part I could help with. When I feel a strong need for change, I won't assume it is beyond my control without trying first. Thinking outside the box encourages me find new ways to help.<br />
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<b>Appreciating what I have</b><br />
Gratitude is something that developed within me naturally on this journey. In my experience, money often brings a sense of entitlement, and it can result in people taking things (as well as each other) for granted. When you live in closer contact with nature and observe keenly, you realize that while everything is given freely, you are not entitled to anything and nature doesn't owe you anything. Neither do other people. Therefore <i>everything </i>is grace, and while I remain conscious of this I don't take anything for granted. Habit can make people unconscious, and that is when we stop appreciating things and other beings. When we get too comfortable, habit slips in. And habit destroys our consciousness. Don't let <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/03/Comfort.html">your comforts</a> lull you to sleep.<br />
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<b>Building character</b><br />
One of the biggest benefits of this journey was that it helped me to be <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/04/WhatItTakes.html">the best version of myself</a>. It inspired me to look within constantly, and to look at the way I relate to other people. It inspired me to have high standards of myself in my relationships with other people, because this way of life connects me to people in a different way. This lifestyle clearly demonstrates our interdependence - with each other as well as with other species - and it motivates me to be at my best and to help others whenever I can. Also, working on myself, exploring the boundless depths of my being and uncovering all that I am is the best way I can <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/03/Contribution.html">contribute to a better world</a>.<br />
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Currently, I am still living mostly moneyless, living mainly off of food from supermarket dumpsters, supplemented with foraged and homegrown foods. I still dive at least two times a week, and preferably daily. I still marvel at the waste of society and will never forget what I have come to understand about society and money. However, at the same time moneyless living is no longer a compulsive goal for me at this time. This doesn't mean I will give it up in the near future, even though perhaps I may become less rigid about it for a while.<br />
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Having said that, I am still aiming to set up a sustainable, self-sufficient home base somewhere. I have no desire to be part of <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/09/StarvingTheSystem.html">a system that doesn't serve me</a> (nor other people, other species or nature). I will not give up the consciousness and awareness I gained through this experience. I will stay present and remain aware and observant. I will keep my eyes open to the truth, and see what is happening around me, beyond how it is presented to us by the media or people in power who have a vested interest in certain perspectives being pushed onto the public. I will keep questioning everything so that I can keep living my own truth, and not anyone else's.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xwDdQI_b9Io/WalDEkQLvzI/AAAAAAAACig/XMPJSqU_h2Y34zHcBsvTZZxgkx6jilFSQCEwYBhgL/s1600/the-time-to-change-is-now.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1196" data-original-width="1600" height="239" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xwDdQI_b9Io/WalDEkQLvzI/AAAAAAAACig/XMPJSqU_h2Y34zHcBsvTZZxgkx6jilFSQCEwYBhgL/s320/the-time-to-change-is-now.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks to <a href="https://minimamuse.wordpress.com/2015/08/02/liselotte-roosen-interview/">Dörte Giebel</a> for this picture :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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(You may also enjoy reading <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.nl/2016/04/MoneylessMind.html">The Moneyless Mindset vs. the Exchange Mindset: What moneyless living has taught me</a>) <br />
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<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-75548116015571097692017-08-20T17:38:00.004+02:002021-06-01T21:20:50.447+02:00When Dumpsters Get Locked...If you are rescuing food from supermarket dumpsters on a regular basis, then you might run into problems when your actions are discovered by staff. Dumpsters may get locked, moved inside the storage area, fenced in or replaced by a press container. Of course this is something we want to avoid and in this article I will share some prevention strategies. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxuG4DsRUXM/WZmB9JEtG8I/AAAAAAAAChk/EdQ71v2J-C0yIhPSm-rl9Mv37XG43-U4gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1224%2Bbewerkt.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxuG4DsRUXM/WZmB9JEtG8I/AAAAAAAAChk/EdQ71v2J-C0yIhPSm-rl9Mv37XG43-U4gCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1224%2Bbewerkt.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Welcome"-sign -- *points to store entrance for divers :)*</td></tr>
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Usually, store personnel won't mind dumpster divers if they <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.nl/2015/07/dumpster-diving-101.html">dive respectfully</a>. This means always leaving the site as clean as or cleaner than you found it, diving after closing time, minimizing noise and limiting exposure (try not to be seen by anybody). If your favorite store is fairly abandoned after opening hours and the dumpsters are used in such a way that it is difficult for staff to find out about what you are doing, you may prefer to dive anonymously. However, when you dive in an area where you can be easily spotted by passers-by, or if dumpsters are small and you collect a lot of stuff from the bins, then you may want to consider trying to arrange a diving agreement.<br />
<br />
One way to do this is to <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2015/07/how-to-ask-shop-if-they-are-willing-to.html">ask the store manager for permission first</a>
to collect and donate food. You can either agree to collect the food inside the store directly, or to dive with permission. Unfortunately, store managers are often still reluctant to donate food or give permission for divers, and this strategy may backfire because the manager will be on high alert, and may take preventive measures against dumpster diving. However, so far this has not happened to me. What did happen in one case is that the manager turned a blind eye to the diving and even walked past me on many occasions while I was digging for treasures.<br />
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When interacting with store personnel, especially managers, make an effort to see their point of view and always respond with kindness, humility and compassion. <br />
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1. Remember it is fear, not malice, that motivates managers to resist food rescuers.<br />
2. Fear (like anything else) can best be approached with love and compassion. Not attack, blame or defensiveness.<br />
3. Try to keep the conversation open and take initiative.<br />
4. Be innovative and positive in your approach and communications with personnel, management and law enforcers.<br />
5. Demonstrate your goodwill by sharing your treasures with others, especially those who are less fortunate than you or organizations with little resources who aim to make a difference in the world (volunteering organizations, animal shelters, homeless people, refugees, organic farms, etc).<br />
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Another option is to make your presence known in a subtle way, by leaving a note on the dumpster door (on the outside or inside). You can do this straight away or after a dumpster gets locked. <br />
Here is an example of such a note:<br />
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Dear ....,<br /><br />You have been visited by Food Rescuers. We collect food waste and donate it to farms and people in need, to do our part in helping prevent climate change.<br /><br />Your store remains anonymous and we take full responsibility for food safety. We will not donate if there is any health risk.<br /><br />Please help us by keeping your dumpsters unlocked, or we can pick up directly at the store during opening hours. Please call 93606823 to make arrangements.<br /><br />Thank you for helping us with our cause. We are always open to answering questions and feel free to get in touch if you would like to learn more.<br /><br />Sincerely,<br /><br />Trondheim Food Rescue Team<br />
--------------<br />
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Of course it is very important that you keep your promises and commit to your purpose long-term. Read more about what it takes to live moneyless <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.nl/2016/04/WhatItTakes.html">here</a>.<br />
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It may be difficult to know what option works best and it may require
you to talk to the manager first, even if just to get a feel for the
type of person you are dealing with.<br />
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If you have other advice for fellow divers, feel free to post your tips below.<br />
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Most of all, don't forget to keep on having fun!<br />
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Happy hunting! :)<br />
<br />
(click <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.nl/2015/06/10-reasons-to-dive-or-10-benefits-to.html">HERE</a> for a reminder of the benefits of dumpster diving; not just for yourself, but also for the store and the rest of the world!)<br />
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<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-70783201818455898192017-08-04T20:53:00.001+02:002017-09-02T01:53:29.195+02:00Making A Vision BoardFor the past few weeks I have been suffering from a broken heart. I 'met' someone online and we had a great connection: shared ideals, shared plans for the future, similar values, great communication and a shared passion for self-sufficient lifestyles. Due to living in different parts of the world we hadn't met in person yet but we talked via chat and on Skype. And then suddenly everything changed. I am not sure what happened. Maybe the excitement wore off for him, or maybe he was afraid of taking the next step (meeting), or maybe there was someone else in his life. I don't know. All I know is that it was over. He never actually told me why or what happened. He just found ways to shut down all communication between us, and after a few months of trying to reconnect (and merely getting vague and indirect answers) I think I have to conclude that he no longer wishes to be a part of my life. I will never know what might have been.<br />
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Of course, rationally, I can tell myself this is a good thing. After all, it would be much easier to be with someone who wants to share with me what is going on for him, even when this is difficult to do. Situations and feelings can always change, but when things are not working out as you hoped then it's fair to let the other person know so that they can either do something about it or move on with their lives, instead of leaving them hanging - and guessing - for months. So rationally I understand this wasn't such a good match after all. But still, it hurt.<br />
A lot.<br />
<br />
I contemplated what it was that made it so difficult for me to let go this time and I realized there were three things:<br />
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1. For me, meeting someone who has similar ideas and values and who actually wants to create a similar kind of lifestyle is a rare event. From this it is easy to conclude that perhaps there aren't many people who have similar life goals to mine, but it could also mean that I don't meet enough people and/or that I go to the wrong places to meet them. On top of that - as I wrote in
<a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.nl/2017/07/BackToSquareOne.html">my previous blog post</a> - I move around a lot, which makes it difficult to build and maintain lasting friendships. So it will be important for me to start meeting more like-minded people; not just people who live <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.nl/2016/08/PhDpursuit.html">far away</a>, but also people who live nearby. And the more people I meet, the bigger the chance that some of them will have similar values, goals and dreams. <br />
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2. At least some of the time I doubt whether the kind of person I would like to share my life with exists at all (and whether they are within my reach). The first part of this is connected with the previous point: because I believe that I am looking for a rare combination of qualities. But maybe this is just a matter of being in the wrong crowd. Also, I have to remind myself that it is not necessary to find many people like this - just one will do. <br />
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3. Another subconscious belief that came to the surface is that <i>sometimes </i>I feel like I am not good enough as I am, or that I somehow have to <i>earn</i> love; that I am not lovable just the way I am. In those moments, I feel like I have to convince others that I am worthy of love. Of course when someone loses interest, it reinforces the story - even though it probably has nothing to do with me.<br />
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These realizations finally motivated me to create my First Ever Vision Board to help me focus on shifting these tendencies, and it was SO much fun! I highly recommend it :) You can use a program like <a href="http://download.cnet.com/Vision-Board-Builder/3000-2192_4-75313237.html">Vision Board Builder</a>. I started off with a colorful wallpaper image to get the beautiful background colors, and layered the other images over the top.<br />
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Here's a breakdown of my vision board:<br />
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<b>LOVE (and friends)</b><br />
For me, 'practicing life' is about unconditional love, towards myself and others. Universal love goes beyond preferences and all other types of judgments. Love is joy in its purest form. It is a practice; a way of life. 'Issues' that come up in relationships with others can teach me what I haven't realized yet about myself, or show me what I have to let go of.<br />
Love is free: free of attachment and free of demands. Love is connection, sharing and openness. Love is about being myself around others, getting comfortable being uncomfortable for the sake of personal growth. Love is about bringing out the best in each other, and looking for the best in everyone I meet. It is about bringing joy into other people's lives, because I know and support others' deepest wishes and desires and support them as much as I support my own, without the imposition of my own agenda. It is about honest self-expression, and therefore also about listening with compassion when others share their world with me. All of this starts with knowing myself, accepting myself, and loving myself- not superficially, but <i>unconditionally</i>.<br />
<a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2015/08/GoalsRelationships.html">Romantic love</a> brings two people together who want to explore the depths of self-growth and unconditional love, and share the best and the worst of life's experiences with each other in order to learn and grow. Together they build a strong bond so that they can take each other to higher/deeper levels, explore all facets of life together and be each other's mirror and inspiration. <br />
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<b>TRUST</b><br />
Without trust there can be no love and without love it is difficult to trust. The trust I am talking about is a fundamental (and therefore unshakable) kind of trust: a deep knowing that whatever will happen is what needs to happen. Moreover, knowing that what happens is always the best possible outcome. Trusting that life will always bring me what I need and even what I ultimately want, even if I don't realize it at the time. And trusting that everything that happens in my life is designed to bring me happiness and freedom. <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2015/11/Gratitude.html">Everything is a gift.</a> So far this has always been true for me - without exceptions. It just takes me a while to realize it sometimes.<br />
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<b>PEACE</b><br />
Inner peace is <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2015/09/health.html">the absence of stress</a>. When I experience stress, I look to my mind to see what causes it. When I experience peace, I can see that I am connected with truth - in the flow of the present moment without resistance or attachment - free to respond naturally and spontaneously. Even the slightest amount of stress is my wake-up call. Peace is always present inside and stress is always caused by me. That is empowering knowledge. I can choose peace at any time.<b> </b><br />
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<b>CREATIVITY</b><br />
We are always creating, but <i>what </i>we are creating depends on our inner states. When we have trust, inner peace and an awareness of love, then our creations reflect that. Creation is perhaps one of the most magnificent wonders of life, because it can be a way to shine a light for others, simply by expressing what is true for you in the moment and what is important to you. <br />
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In my experience, <b>gratitude </b>is not something that needs direct focus because it results from living in a harmonious and present state of mind. Trying to ‘be grateful’ doesn’t work, because you are trying to get an effect without putting in the required ingredients first (or more precisely: without doing the work that is required to uncover it). It might feel inauthentic or forced. I only included it as a measure for progress. I also included <b>fun </b>and <b>health</b>, because sometimes I particularly forget about those two aspects of my life. It serves to remind me to check whether I am eating healthy foods and whether I am making time to play and have fun. It is important not to take yourself too seriously at least some of the time.<br />
<br />
The picture in the center of the board is one of my favorite pictures of me because it represents all of the aspects that are important to me in one single image. I added the Tarot card on Wednesday when I did a past-present-future spread which gave me the 10 of cups as my card for the future. That happens to be one of my favorite Tarot cards and it fits very well with the themes on the vision board.<br />
<br />
<br />
If you have a vision board as well, I would love to see yours!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-16255439363285877052017-07-23T15:36:00.000+02:002017-07-23T15:36:24.592+02:00Back To Square One: Planning The Future<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cVeZK4wy1uw/WXJN8SVl3CI/AAAAAAAACfw/b-7WXmqTc-EMpTyEivlaN1ReuAqJMfEEgCLcBGAs/s1600/View.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="861" data-original-width="1600" height="172" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cVeZK4wy1uw/WXJN8SVl3CI/AAAAAAAACfw/b-7WXmqTc-EMpTyEivlaN1ReuAqJMfEEgCLcBGAs/s320/View.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
As most of you already know, I have just moved back to the Netherlands after
spending almost 3 years in Norway. This was probably the longest period
of time I have spent in one place in a long, long time. Since I was 18
years old, I have moved 32 times between 26 different addresses, across 7
different countries (or 8 if you count Northern Ireland as separate
from England) and 3 continents. It was self-imposed and I used to enjoy
every move - and still do to some degree. It keeps me from accumulating
too much stuff, it is exciting and brings new adventures, it allows me
to start over each time and therefore live in the moment more, and it helps me to
gain new perspectives and to see the world through new eyes.<br />
<br />
Nevertheless, there are also some downsides to long-term travel and
living a rootless life, and for the past five or six years these have been
coming to the forefront more and more. It can be challenging to maintain close friendships, or to experience a sense of belonging. Even though I can easily feel at home anywhere in the world, I also feel like I am an alien everywhere I go. I belong everywhere and nowhere. Each time I move to a new place it is a little less exciting and more exhausting to start up
my life yet again, because I know it is just temporary and I will have
to start all over again after just a few years. Saying good-bye to some of the wonderful people I meet along the way and grow to love and respect
also gets more difficult each time. Sometimes I feel like an outcast, even though so far it has been mostly by choice.<br />
<br />
I feel like it is time for a new phase in my life: a phase where I start to put down some serious roots, settle down, meet people (and really get to know them) and fully commit to building up my life in one place. To me, that feels quite a way outside my comfort zone because in a world that offers no certainties, my sense of security has come from remaining unbound and free. But at the same time that also brings a constant restlessness to my life; a sense of always being on the run (even when I am not).<br />
<br />
So the next step in my <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.nl/2016/07/Rules.html">rewilding adventure</a> will be to build my own self-sufficient home, preferably in an environment where money and ownership are entirely absent (in the
wild) or where I could more easily forget about those concepts (on my
'own' piece of land - which would be the next best thing if living in
the wild would somehow not be an option). Therefore, the next time I move I am intending to stay for a while; maybe even forever. I will pluck up the courage to put down some firm roots, build solid friendships, and start living my dream: creating a self-sufficient, sustainable environment where I can live in harmony with nature, possibly with room for others to join me. No more waiting for the perfect time, the perfect people to show up around me or the perfect circumstances. Life offers no guarantees. I may be uprooted once again through circumstance, but I can always re-plant myself, and it may even be easier the second time.<br />
<br />
The planning phase starts now. The first step will be to decide which country is best suited for me to build an eco-home, grow foods year-round and build a small community (whether in the wilderness or not). At the moment I am considering Norway and France as viable options, or perhaps further afield…<br />
<br />
(If you have any advice for me, please let me know!)<br />
<br />
Much love to you all. <3<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com4Netherlands52.132633 5.291265999999950547.144659 -5.0358825000000493 57.120607 15.61841449999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-28302070037876307232017-05-20T09:24:00.000+02:002017-05-20T09:24:33.011+02:00What It Means To Be Successful<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XDADLzOSg6k/WR_mpIgbGPI/AAAAAAAACe0/GfRKE7eMBzoHBCcOBzk4_4oJIztfh34pQCLcB/s1600/IMG_6816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XDADLzOSg6k/WR_mpIgbGPI/AAAAAAAACe0/GfRKE7eMBzoHBCcOBzk4_4oJIztfh34pQCLcB/s320/IMG_6816.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Success
is often described in material terms. Society seems to prescribe it in terms of whether
you own your own home, have a (nice) car, have a well-paid job, etc. If you don’t have
a job or one that barely pays the bills, then it seems you can’t be successful
according to society’s standards. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">However,
what matters is not how society defines success, or how your parents or friends define it. It matters how <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> define it. This is the only measure
of success that you need to determine whether you have succeeded in life or
not. It also doesn't have to be an end goal far into the future: it can be something you can achieve in any moment, over and over.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">'How do I define success?' is one of the most important questions we can ask ourselves,
because it can help us remain true to ourselves and true to our path when
hard times arise and we have to make tough decisions. Our
definitions of success change and evolve over time, because life changes
and situations change as well, and our perspectives may change as a result of that. In my experience, it usually becomes simpler as
we get older and wiser. We realize that success really isn’t that complicated (which doesn't mean it is always easy),
and that we really don’t need that much to live a meaningful, happy and
fulfilling life. We realize that it is more (or even <i>entirely</i>) about what happens on the inside rather than about what happens around us. That realization is success in itself - if freedom is important
to you.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For me, a definition of success is only meaningful if it is something that I can achieve at any time (no matter what happens). It is about prioritizing what matters most to me at that point in time. It is always about me, because I can’t decide
for others, or dictate what situations may come my way. Defining success as a personal quality that I want to develop not only makes life simpler and more enjoyable, it also helps me to see the perfection of life because everything that happens is an opportunity for me to learn and to practice. I can start over in every moment. Sometimes I fail, sometimes I succeed. It doesn't matter. I get to practice.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Have you noticed that the challenges that come to you are
always the right ones? And that the people who show up in your life (and leave again) also bring you exactly what you need?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">*****</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">How do
<i>you </i>measure success in your life? What does being successful mean <i>to you</i>?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></div>
Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-41540034481133096952016-12-12T14:22:00.000+01:002016-12-15T15:01:32.539+01:00Why We Will Suffocate If We Don't Change Our Ways<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wIOslT3LoRo/WE6ebER_qRI/AAAAAAAACdw/PsTaBcO6RgkngkhSSeBUzr5Vk_93YgcYwCLcB/s1600/P1030487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wIOslT3LoRo/WE6ebER_qRI/AAAAAAAACdw/PsTaBcO6RgkngkhSSeBUzr5Vk_93YgcYwCLcB/s320/P1030487.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>The importance of phytoplankton</b> <br />
One of the effects of climate change that is -strangely- hardly ever talked about, is that it depletes the oxygen levels in our oceans. Most people don't really see the harm in this, because they see themselves as separate from nature, oceans and other species, but the truth is that <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/11/Overpopulation.html">everything is interconnected</a>, and the oceans are extremely important for human survival.<br />
<br />
The vast majority of the oxygen we breathe comes from the oceans, or more specifically: from phytoplankton. If the oceans suffocate, then so do we. Nevertheless, due to continued overfishing and the rising temperatures of the oceans as a result of climate change, we have been creating oceanic dead zones like there is no tomorrow (and if we continue, there indeed won't be a tomorrow) and yet most people do not seem to feel overly concerned. At the same
time we have been steadily cutting down rainforests, so it almost seems
like we want to <i>make sure</i> that we don't make it out alive.<br />
<br />
I hope we do
though, and that we all start to take this problem seriously, <i>and</i> make <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/01/Footprint.html">the necessary changes in our lives</a>
(**NB: this link contains suggestions that will not be sufficient
anymore to avert climate change, but which can offer a way for you to
get started. Eventually (and rather sooner than later) <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/11/Overpopulation.html">a carbon neutral - and preferably carbon negative- lifestyle</a> is the only way to go**). <br />
<br />
<b>Why are people not massively taking action?</b><br />
The 'consensus' among the public seems to be that they won't be personally affected by climate change, they will still have time when disaster strikes, or perhaps that others should fix it. However, this is not so. When the oceans suffocate, then oxygen levels are likely to drop down to levels that are no longer sufficient for humans to survive, which will give us just a few more minutes on the planet (however much time is needed to suffocate) before we all go extinct. This shift is most likely to happen suddenly, without warning (other than the many warnings we have already had) and therefore result in almost instant, global human extinction - along with most other life on the planet. There will be nowhere to hide either. No safe zones.<b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>The solution</b><br />
As we are all contributing to climate change with carbon output, we are all partly responsible for this and so it is up to us all to lower our collective carbon footprints, all the way down to zero and ideally into the negative - before it is too late. (<a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/p/living-free.html">Going moneyless can be a huge step in the right direction!</a> I personally believe this is the only solution - as money has become so intimately connected with destruction to the planet, but I am always open to other suggestions.)<br />
<br />
Remember that whatever objections you may have to making changes, whatever difficulties you project, or whatever you may think is more important for you to focus on right now, it all fades into insignificance when you consider the alternative: extinction.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1WDRItKXaMA/WE6TsFEVElI/AAAAAAAACdg/5htOs9Hpsa46yaF43TngQlTCylGT3BBWACLcB/s1600/IMG_3428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1WDRItKXaMA/WE6TsFEVElI/AAAAAAAACdg/5htOs9Hpsa46yaF43TngQlTCylGT3BBWACLcB/s320/IMG_3428.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Links for further reading:</b><br />
<br />
1. <a href="http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11538-015-0126-0">http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11538-015-0126-0</a><br />
Please read this article about oxygen depletion, which I think is the most important research related to climate change that is currently out there: (you need a university subscription in order to read the complete article, but if you don't have one you can <a href="mailto:lroosen@hotmail.com">email me</a> a request: make sure to include the link).<br />
<br />
2. <a href="http://russgeorge.net/2016/06/17/plankton-will-stop-making-oxygen-by-end-of-century/">http://russgeorge.net/2016/06/17/plankton-will-stop-making-oxygen-by-end-of-century/</a><br />
The link at number 1 explained in a way that is easier to understand.<br />
<br />
3. <a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/095937809190042R">http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/095937809190042R</a><br />
Check here to see if you have these misconceptions about climate change. (Again, if you cannot read the full article, but you want to read it, please email me this link with a request for the full article). <br />
<br />
4. <a href="http://www.theinertia.com/environment/a-horrifying-new-study-found-that-the-ocean-is-on-its-way-to-suffocating-by-2030/">http://www.theinertia.com/environment/a-horrifying-new-study-found-that-the-ocean-is-on-its-way-to-suffocating-by-2030/</a><br />
Clear description of the research about deoxygenation of the oceans.<br />
<br />
5. <a href="http://www.nature.com/ngeo/journal/v2/n2/abs/ngeo420.html">http://www.nature.com/ngeo/journal/v2/n2/abs/ngeo420.html</a><br />
The link between climate change and ocean oxygen depletion explained. <br />
<br />
6. <a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X13003925">http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X13003925</a><br />
More on the link between climate change and the oceans, and an explanation of mass extinction. <br />
<br />
7. <a href="http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.12754/full">http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.12754/full</a><br />
More about climate change and ocean dead zones.<br />
<br />
8. <a href="http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11186-005-1993-4">http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11186-005-1993-4</a><br />
The relationship between climate change and capitalism, plus some history.<br />
<br />
9. <a href="http://science.sciencemag.org/content/314/5800/787">http://science.sciencemag.org/content/314/5800/787</a><br />
This article is from 2006, about biodiversity loss in the oceans. At that point it was still reversible. I hope that it still is. In any case it is a good reason not to consume ANY seafood anymore. Let's keep our oceans as healthy as possible, because the oceans are the basis for life on earth.<br />
<br />
10. <a href="http://www.pnas.org/content/105/Supplement_1/11466.full">http://www.pnas.org/content/105/Supplement_1/11466.full</a><br />
Mass extinction evidence from an article written in 2008 (basically old news by now from a scientific view point - remember that conditions continue to change, and changes are speeding up now as human populations continue to grow and continue to do more and more damage (on average).<br />
<br />
11. <a href="http://science.sciencemag.org/content/277/5325/494">http://science.sciencemag.org/content/277/5325/494</a><br />
On human domination of the planet, and how it has harmed other species and the land.<br />
<br />
12. <a href="http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/2015GB005310/abstract">http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/2015GB005310/abstract</a><br />
More about the suffocation of the oceans. (see 4)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-82395123759292941592016-12-08T18:59:00.000+01:002016-12-08T19:03:54.159+01:00Taking A Break From Moneyless Living: Why I Miss It<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HZRyCYZT_0Y/WEmfBV7Lj-I/AAAAAAAACdI/8K0-m6frAqkO3M7cICMYEVgJv7qrQ91uQCLcB/s1600/IMG_5448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HZRyCYZT_0Y/WEmfBV7Lj-I/AAAAAAAACdI/8K0-m6frAqkO3M7cICMYEVgJv7qrQ91uQCLcB/s320/IMG_5448.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Right now I am on a trip to Australia by train, which I managed to
make a <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.com/2016/08/PhDpursuit.html">part of my research project</a>. This means that I am taking a break
from living a moneyless life for the duration of this trip: I buy train
tickets, overnight stays and some food.<br />
I try to stick to minimal
spending, but I am definitely using money. However, from the very first day I was missing <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/07/Rules.html">rewilded</a> / <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/p/living-free.html">moneyless living</a> already, and here is what I miss about it.<br />
<br />
<b>Freedom</b><br />
People
usually think that money buys them freedom, but this is actually not
true. There is in fact a lot more planning and scheduling involved when
you are using money: You have to book tickets that are only available in
limited quantities, you have to book hotels or hostels that need to be
arranged beforehand (also available in limited numbers) and if you only
stick to using money, your travels are restricted to touristically
developed areas. <br />
You may think this buys you security at the very
least (knowing you will have a place to stay), but this is not always
the case either (there are always scammers around who are ready to take your
money, hotels can get fully booked, you can end up in a less-than-great
location or a hotel that is infested with bedbugs, etc).<br />
<br />
<b>Basic Kindness</b><br />
It
is interesting to see how just basic human kindness quickly gets lost as soon
as money is involved. There have been several times here in China that
people kindly offered to give me directions, but then wanted to sell me
something (a ride, a ticket (far more expensive than the usual), or
whatever), and then if I decline they happily send me off in the wrong
direction, or lie about certain conditions. Several times these kinds of people
have told me that 'the bus won't come for another hour! You will have to
wait a long time!' I have time so I wait, and then of course it arrives within five minutes.
It is very frustrating and quite sad to see how basic human
kindness, helpfulness and love are lost just because of money. When
money is the sole requirement for survival, all people care about is how
much money they can squeeze out of you. They no longer see you as a
fellow human being. No. They see you as an ATM. And that feels horrid.
So I really miss the basic kindness and unconditionality that comes with
living the moneyless life. In fact, kindness is what makes us human. It is what living beings are. Why compromise our very being and integrity just for some external reward? That is no reward. It is a punishment.<br />
<br />
<b>Fulfillment</b><br />
Somehow I
feel less fulfilled when I am spending money. Not only is there an
absence of a feeling of achievement as I take care of my needs (after
all, there is not much creativity or skill required when you use money:
no real survival skills are necessary, and no learning or personal growth is
required to happen at all) but I also feel a sense of emptiness in my
day-to-day activities. This latter part is hard to describe, but I will
try. When money is involved, it seems like my actions lose meaning to
some degree: there is an added sense of emptiness and that causes an additional need to create meaning; a need that would not be there in the absence of money, because then each (inter)action has meaning and purpose. I am still not entirely sure how to describe this aspect exactly, but I think it has something to do with the conditionality that money creates and how it feels fake, complicated, cumbersome and draining us of our natural qualities.<br />
<br />
<b>Connection</b><br />
I miss the sense of connection that comes from living without money. It just naturally leads to a life that is connected to everything: my fellow beings (human and non-human), the resources I use, the ecosystem I am a part of, nature as a whole... everything! There is nothing that feels as good as being immersed in and connected to life. It brings peace of mind.<br />
<br />
<b>Interdependence</b><br />
People often say that they like the independence that money gives them, but I actually enjoy and miss the interdependence that moneyless living brings. It forms bonds and relationships that are real and lasting. It brings intense gratitude, a sense of happiness and a feeling of purpose on both sides. And most of all; it demonstrates what really matters in life (relationships). Life is all about relationships and what we can give to and share with each other. This is the meaning of life. If you live without money this is just so obvious and clear. And when money enters the equation, all of this is lost. Not just this realization, but also the very meaning of life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-56i2PP-9Gz4/WEmcSry6YyI/AAAAAAAACc8/0zR1uRfx2bUSBrUvXalK4EqOYp487JMJACLcB/s1600/IMG_5526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-56i2PP-9Gz4/WEmcSry6YyI/AAAAAAAACc8/0zR1uRfx2bUSBrUvXalK4EqOYp487JMJACLcB/s320/IMG_5526.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I still encourage everyone to try <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/p/living-free.html">moneyless living</a>, even if it is just for a while. You will notice the differences and you will understand what I am talking about. You will also understand most of the current problems in the world and see the connections. You will see the solutions too. There is a way for us to live awesome, connected lives and to live in harmony with nature. There is a way for us all to feel fulfilled and live happy and healthy lives. There is a way for humans to live in real freedom (not the limited, fake freedom we have created). And contrary to popular belief, the way to do this does not involve money.<br />
<br />
<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-64764262236490186372016-12-07T15:59:00.002+01:002016-12-07T16:01:19.050+01:00The Benefits of Train Travel<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O2sc269Zdzg/WEedEGn_WuI/AAAAAAAACa8/-LGDqrIdbpkV-GsMOhrhrVY9UsafQhSFgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O2sc269Zdzg/WEedEGn_WuI/AAAAAAAACa8/-LGDqrIdbpkV-GsMOhrhrVY9UsafQhSFgCLcB/s320/IMG_4931.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><b>No jet
lag!</b> </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When traveling to Australia by plane, usually people experience jet lag because the time is shifting so rapidly. There are also other -more serious- health concerns related to traveling by plane (especially long-distance), such as the risk of developing </span>deep-vein thrombosis. Also, if you are traveling to high-altitude regions, there is a smaller risk of getting altitude sickness when you travel by train, because your body gets more time to adjust (depending on the route you take of course: e.g. the train from Beijing to Lhasa can be an exception if you don't make a stopover in Xining).<br />
<br />
<b>It brings you closer to main sights</b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">You
usually arrive in or near the city/town center, or close to interesting locations that you may want to visit, so you can rely on walking most of the time to get around. Also, if you want to travel further, there are usually plenty of buses around that can take you into all directions. If you fly, you usually arrive in a very uninspiring place and it can take a while to get away from there.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gsa29oZduu0/WEfoef5pJdI/AAAAAAAACbM/4GJvv9PMTLcwu8CIc1tP1ePorFBpGE9DACLcB/s1600/IMG_5563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gsa29oZduu0/WEfoef5pJdI/AAAAAAAACbM/4GJvv9PMTLcwu8CIc1tP1ePorFBpGE9DACLcB/s320/IMG_5563.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guilin sunset, as viewed from one of the mountain tops (walking distance from the train station)</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">You see
more along the way</span></b><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">While traveling by train you see scenery you would not have seen otherwise. On my trip so far I have encountered so many different landscapes and it is amazing to watch the landscape change as I travel across different countries, different climates and time-zones, and through urban as well as more remote regions. I have been traveling for nearly three weeks now and it has not been boring yet.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C8SDDUJdccM/WEgcg-KnzHI/AAAAAAAACcQ/SjupXQdK1fEzrV1fhSdOG2v_aqp2V6qjgCLcB/s1600/IMG_5125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C8SDDUJdccM/WEgcg-KnzHI/AAAAAAAACcQ/SjupXQdK1fEzrV1fhSdOG2v_aqp2V6qjgCLcB/s320/IMG_5125.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">You get
time to relax / slow down</span></b><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Even though train travel is far from slow (see below) it does help you to slow down</span><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> and do things you never have time for, because you are usually stuck in a space without internet (and sometimes also without electricity) for quite some time. It can be a very meditative experience to just stare out the window, watching the world go by and watching the scenery change continuously.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cydOkXqHQOk/WEfsER3OJSI/AAAAAAAACbs/o5xL3nHmUpcvsvENqPAm26U4C1cF-WIUQCLcB/s1600/IMG_4689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cydOkXqHQOk/WEfsER3OJSI/AAAAAAAACbs/o5xL3nHmUpcvsvENqPAm26U4C1cF-WIUQCLcB/s320/IMG_4689.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>You meet interesting people</b><br />
Because you are on a train for quite a while, often in compartments you share with other people, you get a chance to talk with them and hear their interesting stories. You can ask them questions about their home country and they can learn more about yours. I met only friendly people on the way so far and many of them were very interesting.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VaVQQEs0ssQ/WEfp8LqEILI/AAAAAAAACbg/w8TnLfI2zIE_9UU5S8qbZ58BSBS9nL9vACLcB/s1600/15207865_742620692560541_1424732136_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VaVQQEs0ssQ/WEfp8LqEILI/AAAAAAAACbg/w8TnLfI2zIE_9UU5S8qbZ58BSBS9nL9vACLcB/s320/15207865_742620692560541_1424732136_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raushan is one of those cool people I met along the way. Definitely a highlight!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><b>It is more enjoyable</b> </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Because travel is slower and there is so much to see (and do) along the way, you tend to enjoy the
journey more: the journey is the destination. It is the same with life, but
sometimes we forget because we get too efficient in our way of thinking and
planning everything. If everything happens (too) fast, we don’t get time to
adjust and enjoy the road. We lose our flexibility and our flow.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vt71VHGcbfA/WEfu6NU67fI/AAAAAAAACb4/Ex4455_6lmwWM3oA0RDhVNeXXm1wFouFACLcB/s1600/IMG_5433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vt71VHGcbfA/WEfu6NU67fI/AAAAAAAACb4/Ex4455_6lmwWM3oA0RDhVNeXXm1wFouFACLcB/s320/IMG_5433.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><b>Freedom</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The flexibility of train travel translates directly into more freedom: especially if you don’t pre-book anything. Even when I need to
get visas, I try to book as little as possible in advance, because that gives me
freedom to change my plans. Sometimes you may decide to take a different route, or stay somewhere longer (or shorter) than originally planned. For example, I decided to travel through China much faster than I planned originally, because I caught a severe cold and wanted to get to the warm weather as soon as possible. Right now I am in Guilin with 20C.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Every time you need to book a ticket in advance, it is restricting to some degree. Fortunately, when you travel by train it is often quite easy to get last minute tickets (which are usually the same price no matter when you buy them, unlike plane tickets which skyrocket the closer you get to your travel date).</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EIQo3Wxwkwg/WEfw-4hZ94I/AAAAAAAACcA/4duTJFckhi0Hm8qacZ6HUQbumgzV0SorgCLcB/s1600/IMG_5522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EIQo3Wxwkwg/WEfw-4hZ94I/AAAAAAAACcA/4duTJFckhi0Hm8qacZ6HUQbumgzV0SorgCLcB/s320/IMG_5522.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><b>Cost-effective</b> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Traveling by train is not that expensive, and relatively speaking it is much
cheaper than flying if you count in all the extra places you can visit (plus considering you also get accommodation on overnight trains).</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jaYBjMk2cnU/WEghTT-rEmI/AAAAAAAACcc/aEuJ2BV7HAcuN53af-KwJl_kUD2OoaivgCLcB/s1600/IMG_5473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jaYBjMk2cnU/WEghTT-rEmI/AAAAAAAACcc/aEuJ2BV7HAcuN53af-KwJl_kUD2OoaivgCLcB/s320/IMG_5473.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><b>More environmentally friendly </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Train travel is better for the environment than flying and can still be considerably better for the environment than car travel
(especially if you travel with electric trains). I am hoping that popularization of train travel will encourage the electrification of trains around the world, which will make global train travel an even more sustainable option because it would cut carbon emissions on long-distance train travel even further.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_x8DvHZAI1s/WEgijY-BfTI/AAAAAAAACcg/_pqa5eZOrM0xwRMM74yvdJH_x3300c9owCLcB/s1600/IMG_5434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_x8DvHZAI1s/WEgijY-BfTI/AAAAAAAACcg/_pqa5eZOrM0xwRMM74yvdJH_x3300c9owCLcB/s320/IMG_5434.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>To summarize:</b><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">As with most things in life: </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Less cost + slowing down (in this case slower travel) = more enjoyment, freedom and happiness.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I would like to add that traveling with slightly less comfort (third class tickets, staying overnight in simple locations) is also more interesting, because you experience the trip more fully and get pushed to appreciate the little things more and more. Also this way of traveling helps you to stay connected to where you are and what you are doing, and the challenges that may come with it help you to become a wiser and more balanced person. Life is no fun if you don't <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/05/ComfortZone.html">challenge yourself</a>!</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"></span>
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span>
<b>The details of my trip so far:</b><br />
<br />
* I covered 6461 km in the first week (Helsinki - St Petersburg - Moscow - Astana - Almaty - Urumqi). I spent 356,22 Euros on train tickets for this part of the trip.<br />
* I covered another 3793,1 km in the second week to get from Urumqi to Guilin (via Tianshui, Baoji, Chongqing and Guiyang). Tickets totaled 144,97 Euros for this part of the journey.<br />
* That is a total of 501,19 euro so far, for 10.254,1 km, visiting 10 cities along the way.<br />
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Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-89464788244688151862016-11-19T07:14:00.000+01:002016-11-19T07:17:10.181+01:00Overpopulation: Why It Matters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am extremely surprised that many people still believe that overpopulation is a myth. I wonder if it has something to do with Hans Rosling's talks, who uses very unconvincing (and unscientific) argumentation to 'prove' that overpopulation is a myth, while he is conveniently overlooking the interdependence between humans and other species and completely ignores our unsustainable ways and what it would take to change this. Let me address those points now to help make clear why overpopulation is a huge problem that needs to be addressed.<br />
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<b>1. Carbon negative living is now the only way to stop climate change</b><br />
Did you know that to make life on earth sustainable (and survive as a species) we all need to start living a carbon negative lifestyle <i>right now</i>? The main reason is that even if we would all stop emitting carbon from now on, and if we all went vegan overnight, still more carbon would be added to the atmosphere than can be absorbed. Part of the reason for this is the carbon that is released from the <a href="http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v520/n7546/full/nature14338.html">permafrost</a>, which is melting due to already increased temperatures.<br />
So this means we need to be focusing on rehabilitating nature and on making completely self-sustainable communities ASAP: no more mass-production of food (because that requires transport), no more mass production of unnecessary products (which may include more than you think) and no more jobs that do not contribute to the well-being of the planet (or worse: which cause destruction). If we just continue "doing our jobs", there won't be any human life left in a few decades.<br />
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<b>2. Humans require space and natural surroundings </b><b>to remain in touch with nature </b><br />
Do you think the human population of the entire earth can live in harmony with nature (i.e. living a carbon negative lifestyle)? If you think so, have you ever been to the Netherlands, India, China and other densely populated places? If you live in those places, you hardly have any contact with other species. It might seem that humans are the only species there, or at least the most important ones, which is of course very misleading. Where are all those people going to live, if not in high-rise apartment buildings?<br />
Have you ever watched the <a href="http://www.worldometers.info/world-population/">world population clock</a>? Have you tried growing all of your own food year-round in areas like Canada, Norway and other places with long winters? Have you ever tried growing all the food you eat anywhere in the world, or living merely on foraged foods? Do you know how much land is required to do this sustainably? And do you know how much land is required for us to repopulate creatures that are on the brink of extinction and to restore forest areas enough to reverse our collective footprint into the carbon-negative?<br />
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<b>3. Carbon negative living requires us to live in a temperate climate</b><br />
Weather conditions are often not taken into account when overpopulation is discussed, yet it is a very important factor, especially with regards to carbon negative living. Have you tried compensating for the carbon you emit by planting trees, living a fully self-sustainable lifestyle with a carbon negative footprint? I would say try it. You would at least need to be growing all of your own food, give up any fossil-based transport/consumption and live without heating or air-conditioning. Give it a go and see how difficult it is; especially in colder climates. And then put human overpopulation into that new perspective.<br />
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<b>4. We are part of the ecosystem</b><br />
Perhaps the most important point is that humans depend on many other species for their survival. When overpopulation is discussed, strangely enough other species are often entirely overlooked. We are not the only species that matters. In fact, there are species that matter much more, and that do far more for nature and their relative ecosystems than humans (also because we have lost touch and most of us don't even know the role of humans in nature anymore).<br />
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Yes I agree that 'overpopulation' would just be a matter of lifestyles and distribution of resources IF humans were the only species that mattered AND if we were not part of an ecosystem, but that is a rather simplistic view. Some resources are not meant to be distributed. Resources are in a certain area for a reason. It makes the earth habitable for humans in that area. Distributing resources pollutes the earth AND disconnects us from those resources and therefore prevents us from being able to manage them properly.<br />
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At this point even moneyless living is not enough to save life on the planet. We need to be out there tearing down factories, planting trees and cleaning our rivers and lakes. Are we willing to do what it takes to save ourselves?<br />
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<i>(This blog post is adapted from a Facebook update I posted on 8 October 2016)</i><br />
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Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-14631820366705054602016-09-22T21:31:00.001+02:002016-09-22T21:41:44.935+02:00Is Life Too Loud?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For the past few weeks I have been traveling around the south-western United States, visiting all kinds of places on my way. I gravitate towards wilderness and quiet places, but my travels have also brought me in cities and other places I normally try to stay away from. After traveling from a big city to a cabin in the mountains, I realized how most people really spend most of their lives in the extreme loudness and noise of 'civilization', and how damaging this is to our mental and physical health. I don't know how those of us who live in cities manage to survive, and perhaps we hardly can.<br />
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The buzzing of computers and cars, the ticking of clocks, music playing on the radio and in most public places, people talking, mobile phones, and the list goes on.<br />
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We think we get used to the noise, and perhaps to some degree we do, but only by blocking off some of the noise that comes in. For most of us that means we shut part of ourselves off in order to escape the busy-ness that is going on all around us, most of the time. And in that process, a lot more gets lost and blocked off than just the excess noise.<br />
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The moment you realize this is when you find yourself in a peaceful place, where all you can hear is the chirping of birds and insects, and the occasional rustling of leaves. The mind may protest for a while and continue the rush of anxiety and stress that has often consequently taken over our systems. Some people have gotten so used to the noise and this constant state of almost-panic that they fear the silence, because in that silence they can suddenly hear their loud mind, which has become louder and louder over time in order to be heard and in order to function in the overwhelming, purpose-packed world of effectiveness we have created.<br />
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The good news is that we can find peace of mind again by immersing ourselves in nature. Spend some time in the wilderness and allow yourself to do nothing for a while; for as long as you need to. It is so important that we take the time to do this. It is the busy, noisy minds that want to swallow up, categorize and manage the wilderness, filling it up with purpose and efficiency, making it a part of our Loudness and Noisiness while drowning out the cries of the earth, each other and ourselves. But wilderness has its own purpose, that is far more valuable than anything we could create in that space. Space has value. It restores our inner balance. It helps keep our hearts and minds
open. It keeps us sensitive to others' needs, including our precious
earth. It gives us a direct opportunity to experience peace of mind, and once you know what it is and what it feels like, it is so much easier to integrate that into the rest of our lives. <br />
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I am so grateful for wilderness and places that have not been swallowed up by humanity yet, and I hope we can keep (and even expand) those places. These are the places of healing where people and other animals can meet soul-to-soul to restore and replenish their being. Where we can remind ourselves what it feels like to just 'be' instead of being somebody who has so many tasks and things that have to be done.<br />
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You may find yourself (almost) deafened by the noise of this world, or you may no longer feel the effects of the system on your mind and body. Whatever may be the case, make sure you take the time to go into the wild regularly, not as another task that has to be completed, but to reconnect with the flow of nature instead of the pace of mankind. Our lives and the survival of our species depends on it.<br />
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<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-8224299048066369152016-09-12T05:00:00.000+02:002016-09-12T06:49:33.675+02:00Happy Birthday, Mum!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today it is my mum's birthday! Two months ago while I was writing a post<a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/07/Dad.html"> about my dad for his birthday</a>, I felt inspired to also write one for my mum. And luckily I did not have to wait long to post it!<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Below are some things that my mum taught me. My mum and I share more differences than me and my dad, but I am getting to a point where I realize I have more in common with her than I previously thought, and many of those things I have been taking for granted, because at first glance they may not seem 'spectacular', 'bold' or 'extraordinary'. Most of us don't appreciate subtleties and intricacies anymore. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">However, the following points have proven to be important building blocks for me to become the person I am today and I am often reminded of them as I go about my life.</span></div>
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<b>Treasure and respect nature</b><br />
Throughout my life, mum taught me a lot about nature. We went berry picking, picking mushrooms and went for long walks in the park, marveling at all the different creatures, big and small, plants and trees. I learned to treat all beings like they matter, because they do. And not just outside the house, but also inside. She taught me how to catch creatures that had gone astray with respect and care by trapping them in a glass with a piece of paper covering it, and then leading them outside. That is how I still catch spiders, beetles and flies in my house (and even mosquitoes nowadays, which used to be the only exception). Mum taught me to see how we are all a part of the web of Life and that purposely killing a creature without provocation is always unnecessary.<br />
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<b>Appreciate the little things</b><br />
Mum has taught me awareness of many things that most people (including me) tend to take for granted most of the time. Mum often points out her gratitude for the air we breathe, the flowers, the trees around us, and all the wonderful beings we share the earth with. I have always been a big-picture-kind-of-person, so for me it is easy to forget about things that are always there. And nowadays I find myself more and more noticing the things my mum consistently and often pointed out to me while I was consistently overlooking them as I was growing up.<br />
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<b>Hospitality</b><br />
My mum offered her couch to travelers from near and far long before it <a href="https://www.couchsurfing.com/">became fashionable</a>. I often had friends over that I met while exploring the globe and she always welcomed them with open arms. She loves learning about different cultures and is always eager to host people from anywhere to exchange views and experiences. We literally had visitors from each of the (habitable) continents on earth.<br />
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<b>If you can help someone in need, help them</b><br />
When I was about 17, I met a boy who soon after became homeless. He had no family to help him, a big debt and no job (and no hope of being considered for a job). He was recovering from an accident at work, and got zero support from the previous employer, nor the government. Then he lost his home – I think it was because the person he was living with disappeared. Once you lose your home, it is very difficult to get your life back on track (at least in the Netherlands). It is impossible to keep a bank account, because you don’t have an address. Without an address and bank account, you also can't get a job, nor receive any unemployment benefits. Once you no longer work in our society, you get discarded and treated like you don’t exist. You don't get health insurance either, because you need to pay for that in the Netherlands. And you can’t pay for it if you don’t have income (or a bank account). However, the government can fine you at any time for not being insured, because it is mandatory for all citizens.<br />
He came over e to meet my parents and my mum adopted him as her own son from the moment she met him. She said he could stay with us and he ended up staying for a long time, much longer than I personally wanted, because he had a lot of problems which caused a lot of tensions in our house. Mum guided him through all of the red tape and bureaucracy of getting his finances back in order, getting him a bank account, getting him welfare and finally also helping him find a place of his own. It took about eight months. All the time my mum was always understanding, stuck up for him when he was having angry outbursts towards the system and helped us to try and see the world through his eyes - even for a moment.<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> I am
pleased to say that my adopted brother is doing well and still part of the
family, visiting my parents at least once a week. He has become somewhat of an
expert with technical appliances, and often helps my parents out if they are
having trouble with their phones or computer.</span><br />
I was amazed though that it was so difficult for a person to get back into the system once they were out. It was my first experience of seeing how the state really has no interest in its citizens, only in the profit that is being generated. It made me realize how silly the system is, and how lives really don’t matter in that system. We are just a number, a spoke on a wheel. Our needs don’t matter, even our most basic ones. As soon as we need support - the support we pay for through taxes and by being a member of society - that support we believe exists is not given. And since we have been discarded from society, we lose our voice. No one will hear your cries and you will be left to die. People will walk past you as you lay crying in the curb, but most people will just think you are crazy and worthless - and leave you to die as well. Not my mum though. My mum will not give up on you. When she was 15 she also helped a friend to get back on her feet by offering her to live with her in her room for a couple of months (with the support of her mum), and another time when she was 18 with another friend. They are still good friends.<br />
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<b>Coloring outside the lines: it’s okay to stand out</b><br />
My mum is an artist. She creates her artworks from the heart and lets them flow from her personal experiences. Personal experience is never generalized. To have interesting ideas, it helps to have an interesting life. And to stand out, it is important to question the very fundamentals of society that most people blindly accept as the norm. Standing out may make you a target for criticism, but it also gets you seen and heard. If the message is worth it, then don’t be afraid to stand out and make yourself heard. It is not about you anyway: it is about the message.<br />
Here are some of my mum’s beautiful works (and the catalogue of her most recent work can be found <a href="https://issuu.com/caesuur/docs/16_caesuur_yolanda_catalogus/1?e=0">here</a>):<br />
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<b>Anti-waste mentality</b><br />
Mum definitely knows who to save
money, and my <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2015/06/the-stop-shopping-challenge.html">moneyless challenge</a> was partly inspired by her. She hardly
buys anything for herself and is very creative with what she has. She
gives most of what she has to others. She also knows a lot about expiry
dates and so I often turn to her for advice on the things I find.
Following her guidelines, I have never been sick from dumpster food. I
think I would never have had the courage to eat some of the things I found while diving if it wasn't for her reassurance.<b> </b><br />
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<b>Patience and seeing the value of experiences</b><br />
While me and my sister were growing up, mum had a lot of patience with us so that we could learn about life and explore and grow (even when things were challenging and not going particularly smoothly, because my sister and I are very different and had a lot of fights). We had real childhoods and spent a lot of time outdoors. We often came back with dirty or muddy clothes, sometimes with animals we found and often with interesting friends. My main friends as a young child were the ducks that lived in the nearby park. They stayed clear of most people but they came to me for cuddles and we spent a lot of time together. Some of them moved into our garden and practically lived there. Once one of them accidentally got trapped in the house. The whole house was full of duck-poo when we got back home.<br />
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I am extremely grateful for the childhood I have had, growing up in harmony with nature and learning about the value of Life. I am grateful that I got so much freedom and unconditional love growing up, and that I got to learn to make up my own mind. This has certainly helped me to choose an unconventional path in life. To me there is just no better feeling than knowing you are a part of Life, in all its facets, and having the freedom to follow your heart.<br />
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May all of us be able to find a way to create this for ourselves. <3<br />
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<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-70806142809019969842016-09-05T12:14:00.002+02:002016-09-05T12:14:48.695+02:00Starving The System<br />
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<br />
I often hear people say that we should create a new system that makes the old one obsolete. Of course this is true. However.... this phrase is often used as an explanation of why many people - even though they are opposed to the economic system and the destruction it causes to our fellow earthlings and ecosystems <i>every day</i> - still keep shopping and using money as a tool for fulfilling their needs (or keep doing other things that contradict their own values). <br />
<br />
I find this decision remarkable and anything but rational, because while I fully agree that we should create a new system to make the old one obsolete, I also feel strongly that the people that have the power to change this (i.e. the people who have the most money) are unlikely to be willing to do so unless they are forced. And what better way to force them than to 'starve the system' as I like to call it: We need to stop feeding it from the bottom up.<br />
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So why not do both: create a new system <i>and </i>stop feeding into the old one.... starve it to death. That means stop using money to pay for the structures that are in place, as much as we can. <br />
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Maybe we fear that life will get uncomfortable... because life without money <i>may </i>be really uncomfortable.<br />
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Yes, we may need to change our lifestyles temporarily until the changes are complete. Yes we may need to let go of some comfort and embrace some much needed personal growth instead. Yes, we may lose some of the 'privileges' we have gotten used to, which -by the way- we can only keep getting with a very severe price-tag to the environment <i>and </i>our fellow beings.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, if we keep consuming like it's no big deal, then <b>nothing </b>is going to change and we can come up with the most brilliant alternatives to our economic system that we can think of, but the people who benefit from keeping things the way they are (which also happen to be the people who have the most power) will do everything in their power (which is a lot) to stop any efforts of change.<br />
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In the meantime, there ARE alternatives to money. Which ones there are depends on your needs and your location. You will need to get creative. You can start small and increase your freedom from money step by step. You may need to resort to illegalities at times, but remember that it is okay to cheat or exploit the system, but never your fellow man. The system as it is right now exploits our fellow beings in every step of the way and it's legal, so 'legal' obviously doesn't equal 'right'. We all know that. Now let's act on it.<br />
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Life may temporarily become a little bit more uncomfortable than you were used to, but this will change very quickly. First of all on an individual level because you will soon find alternatives that are just as comfortable, more rewarding and more in line with your values than the way you were doing things before. It can be challenging but this is also exciting and fun. Secondly, things will soon get easier on a structural level if everyone chooses to follow this path in some way or other, because then the system will <i>have to </i>change. People in power will lose their power; it will be pulled from underneath them. We are the ones upholding their status. Once we all realize this and stop contributing, the system will be forced out of existence and a new one has to be put in place.<br />
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Also, this type of revolution is most of all needed in the 'materialistic societies'; mostly Western (or Westernized) countries, because they are doing most of the damage to our planet AND they generally also make it easiest to live without money. If you are living in one of those countries, you have a very important decision to make. It is really not even a decision: it's either changing or perishing. We, the people, have the same powers as the governments that claim to lead us and the companies that supply our needs and greeds: when we stop supporting those 'leaders', their power falls back onto us. <br />
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What are you waiting for? Find a way to oppose the system... and not just any system of course. Only the dysfunctional ones... until they function once again.<br />
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Peace out :)<br />
<br />
<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-18725340322774837562016-08-21T17:35:00.000+02:002016-08-21T17:35:24.884+02:00Pursuing What MattersAs a PhD candidate in Norway, I get a personal budget to spend on research and research-related travels. I have not used much of it yet, as I have been thinking about a good way to spend it. It is difficult to know what you want to pursue early on, because in the beginning everything seems interesting and it is difficult to choose. But as you get more into the topics, you start to see clearly what you would like to explore in more detail.<br />
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<br />During summer I came up with a plan.<br />
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Norway can be quite a lonely place and therefore I felt like doing something that requires me to meet like-minded people and to connect with them. Also, my personal moneyless / rewilding experiences have allowed me to experience first-hand the changes in thinking that result from this new way of being, which is not always easy to understand for others who have not had these experiences, nor is it easy to explain. I would love to learn to communicate about this more effectively; not just from my own personal experience, but also from a deeper understanding of the processes involved and how the mind works. Furthermore, I would like this information to be available to everyone, so that it will be much easier for everyone to make decisions about their lives and so that we can all understand the consequences of our lifestyle choices for our own health and happiness (even when -or especially when- you think that you don't really have a choice!).<br />
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And so that is what I would like to get into and explore further: what kind of changes happen when people live alternative, more self-sufficient lifestyles? And what makes this so?<br />
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To investigate this further, I will be interviewing everyone I have come to meet (virtually until now) who lives (or has lived) without money or with very little and as self-sufficiently as possible <u>as a conscious lifestyle choice</u>. Most probably I will also look at the other side: people who disapprove of such a lifestyle. I think the personal budget is a great opportunity for me to research this, as I think it would be difficult to find funding for such a project otherwise. Luckily, my supervisor is very supportive and it is thanks to him that I will be able to carry out this plan very soon.<br />
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I will be traveling to the US next month for the first set of interviews. Unfortunately there was no way for me to avoid flying. However, the next trip goes all the way to Australia, and I will attempt to get there without flying. I will be taking a train all the way to Singapore and then find a way (hopefully) to get to Australia by ferry / sailing. Along the way I will be meeting people who live alternative, mostly self-sustainable lives (or the other side of the coin: people who strongly reject people who pursue such lifestyles). I will aim to rely on Couchsurfing as much as possible so that I can familiarize myself more easily with the countries I am visiting and have yet another opportunity to connect with amazing individuals. It will also help me to extend the trip even further and collect more data.<br />
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If you know anyone you think I should meet, please let me know! Also feel free to get in touch if you would like to host me or want to organize an event with me. I am open to doing workshops, speaking events, etc.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8WFPRzInqk/V7m9lb50TfI/AAAAAAAACT4/aN-5_jH9dvI8NrSLUXrCR5pqJ71iUiCgACLcB/s1600/Silkroute-map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8WFPRzInqk/V7m9lb50TfI/AAAAAAAACT4/aN-5_jH9dvI8NrSLUXrCR5pqJ71iUiCgACLcB/s320/Silkroute-map.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: seat61.com - Silk route</td></tr>
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If you are in a similar predicament and would like some guidelines on how to spend research budget, go for the following:<br />
1. Choose something you are really passionate about<br />
2. Choose something that is unlikely to get funded if you would submit it as a project directly<br />
3. Choose something that can potentially change the world for the better in a big way (because we need that!)<br />
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The same goes for choosing a career.<br />
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I hope to meet many of you along the way!<br />
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<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-43415391107661448562016-08-11T17:31:00.000+02:002016-08-12T13:39:58.844+02:00The Forager's Diet - What I've Been Eating So FarSince starting the <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/06/ForagingChallenge.html">Foraging Challenge</a>, I have been learning a lot about plants. It is not as easy as I thought, because each time of the year (and location) offers its own menu of delicious foods to choose from. This means you can't just learn about basic plants and rely on those for the whole year. Also, with wild foods (as well as store-bought foods), variety is very important, because most plants are not healthy to consume in very large quantities. So small quantities of many different ingredients is important to stay healthy.<br />
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I will continue researching edibles for the rest of the year, so that I learn about many of the different foods that nature offers throughout the year. Here is an update on some of the things I have been eating so far:<br />
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<b>Ground Elder</b><br />
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Without a doubt one of my favorites in early spring! Very mild and pleasant taste, but later in the year the flavor changes and the leaf becomes tough and stringy, even if the plant remains small. Not recommended in late spring / early summer.<br />
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<b>Pine Pollen</b> <br />
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For a short time during spring, pine trees start to fill the air with yellow dust: pine pollen. You can easily harvest some by walking around with a clean plastic bag, putting the bag around each branch, shaking it lightly and moving on to the next. You can add the pollen to smoothies or eat it as is. No need to break the branches or damage the tree in other ways. Just shake some off. Great taste and very healthy!<br />
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<b>Mushrooms (Penny Bun)</b><br />
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Penny Bun is very tasty, available in rainy times (late summer until autumn). There are many different kinds of mushrooms though and it is recommended not to try any unless you are very sure about the species you have harvested. Some can be very poisonous! Can work great as a meat substitute.<br />
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<b>Chickweed</b><br />
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Also one of my favorite springtime treats! Not just because of their flavor, but also because they can be eaten safely in relatively large quantities. When they get bigger, they lose much of their flavor though. Spring offers a lot of nutricious vegetables, including chickweed. It comes in several variants: Giant chickweed, mouse-ear chickweed and common chickweed (the tastiest and the one pictured above).<br />
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<b>Lambs Quarters</b><br />
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Also one of my favorites and available here in very large quantities in (early) summer time. As with most plants, it tastes best when the plant is still young (or else you can just use the tops). Tastes a bit like spinach. Great raw as well as stir-fried.<br />
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<b>Sea Weeds</b><br />
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Most nutritious during spring time, sea weeds are a great source of minerals and vitamins. As far as I know, all sea weeds are edible, but still it is best to identify the species you have harvested to make sure it is in fact edible and to find out the best ways to prepare it as food. Also great dried (can be ground into flour as well).<br />
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<b>Berries</b> <br />
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Berry season has finally started (end of July), so at the moment I harvest berries every day. I love all of them! Here we mostly have blueberries, wild strawberries, gooseberries, redcurrant, blackcurrant and cloudberries. I have also found wild cherries (technically not a berry, but still delicious).<br />
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By the way, I have yet to taste a food that is as delicious as wild strawberry. It is my all-time favorite wild food up until this moment and no other food even comes close to the rich and wonderful flavor of the wild strawberry. Taste it once and you may never want store-bought strawberries again.<br />
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Eating berries interestingly has made me want to stop using traditional toilets, because it helps complete the circle of life (and obviously it is way better for the environment).<br />
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I will continue learning about free foods as I go along to build up to <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/07/ForagingFail.html">another attempt</a> of living off the land 100%.<br />
<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-14670020479819745482016-07-18T22:06:00.001+02:002016-07-18T22:29:09.165+02:00From 'Moneyless Living' To 'Rewilding'Lately I have noticed that I have started to cross the fine line between having guiding principles in the service of learning about a new way of life, and having rules and dogma. The aims for moneyless living and caring for the environment have slowly progressed from being an ideal I live out, to something I put on myself rigidly and sternly. Here is how to tell the difference, why it is harmful and how we can prevent it from happening.<br />
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<b>Rules versus guidelines</b><br />
The crossing of this line becomes apparent when we start saying things like: "I will NEVER do this or that again". You cannot know what you will do, and saying things like this limits personal freedom and prevents you from doing what's right for you <i>in the moment</i>. It takes you out of presence and into a future that doesn't exist. Examples are: "I will never use money ever again". I have said this, although I <i>can't know</i> what I will do in the future; I only know what my intentions are <i>right now</i>. I also found there is a lot of disagreement between what people consider "using money" and "living without money". It all depends on one's definition. Of course I know what I mean by it, but it is hard to convey to others without getting wordy (after all, it involves an entire mindset). In trying to explain it, the message usually gets lost.<br />
People often end up disagreeing with some parts of my 'moneyless' definition: For example, they argue I am still using electricity, water and internet that was paid for. I am still receiving a salary (even though I am not using it). I am still using products that required production and that have been paid for (such as my laptop from uni). And I am still using roads and other public services. To them it doesn't matter that contribution can take another form than the standard financial form. It doesn't seem to count.<br />
To make matters worse, I am planning some trips (before I start the nomadic journey) that will be financed through my PhD travel budget. Does that mean I will be using money? Probably, yes, at least indirectly. But to me the answer to this question doesn't <i>really</i> matter, because living without money is <i>not </i>(and has never been) the end goal; it is just something that helps me to get in touch with my <i>true </i>goal (presence and awareness) on a daily basis. And that is all that matters. However, lately (after a series of negative comments on various Facebook pages and constantly getting the same questions about this lifestyle) I have allowed myself to get drawn into explaining myself <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/04/MoneylessMind.html">over</a> and <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/03/Contribution.html">over</a> (and <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/06/FAQ.html">over</a>), which brought me closer to the realm of the 'rules' mentality.<br />
I find myself thinking about "money" more often, and questioning whether I live entirely moneyless or not. And while reflection from time to time is really helpful and beneficial, preoccupation is not.<br />
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<b></b><b>What's in the name?</b><br />
When I gave up the use of money in my daily life, it was freeing because I no longer had to worry about money. I simply didn't have to think about it anymore. I still don't have to think about it, because I can survive just fine without it - no matter what happens. This is what appealed to me about this lifestyle. It freed up a lot of mental space to focus on other - more important - things. However, with all the comments I kept getting about what 'moneyless' means and what it is and is not to other people, I still got drawn into thinking about money all the time. Yet this is what I wanted to leave behind.<br />
Some people have suggested the problem largely lies in the term that I use: <i>moneyless</i>. It keeps bringing money into the conversation simply because it is part of the description. I think they have a valid point. So I have thought about other terms that cover the journey I am on succinctly - preferably in just one word. I think the closest term that fits is '<i>rewilding</i>': the process of <a href="http://liselotteroosen.blogspot.no/2016/06/Aboriginal.html">getting back to nature</a> and letting go of artificial rules and structures (including, but definitely not limited to, money). From now on I hope to remember to use this term more frequently instead.<br />
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<b>What happens next?</b><br />
Does this mean I am giving up living moneyless? No, probably not. Does it mean I will never use the term moneyless again? No, probably not that either. It has no real practical, outward implications; I am just no longer going to identify as a 'moneyless person'. Instead of labeling myself, it is enough for me to know what it means to <i>me</i>. I am also going to be less preoccupied and (mentally) radical with following some kind of ideal - I am not going to burden myself with rules and limitations. Life is about living, and freedom and peace of mind are my main priorities.<br />
I am also not going to explain myself all the time and explain what "moneyless" means to me, as I have done way too much in the recent past when people kept telling me why my lifestyle was not 'moneyless enough' for them and why it should not be called that. Genuine questions can get a genuine answer, but comments are not questions. I am getting tired of explaining myself, mainly because it <i>doesn't matter</i> - it is not the essence of my journey at all. It is not important whether I use some things that others have paid for or not. The point is to become aware and to experience life from a new perspective: perhaps a more connected and pure way. Making it into a strict rule or dogma would defeat the entire purpose of the practice.<br />
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In reality, life has only one rule: <i> </i><br />
<i>There are no rules</i>.<br />
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<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2796972927973070451.post-65444780629560642112016-07-11T09:00:00.000+02:002016-07-11T10:05:05.185+02:00Happy Birthday, Dad!Today it is my dad's birthday and I would like to honor him by sharing some of the great things he has taught me. I would not be the same person without him!<br />
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Thank you dad, I love you! <3<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dad visiting me in Australia</td></tr>
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<b>Honesty is most important</b><br />
There is no one in the world I trust as much as my dad. He always tells me the truth, because he has nothing to hide. He lives a life true to himself. Anyone who does that, has no need to be dishonest. There is nothing to gain from it. This is the type of person I also try to be in every moment. It is my main priority, because I have experienced the benefits of this way of life too. It is not even about other people; it is mostly about being honest with myself. After all, I am the one who has to live with the things that I say and do. Being honest just makes life so much easier.<br />
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<b>The importance of backing up words with actions</b><br />
I can give many examples of things my dad has done that show that he favors actions over merely words, especially when it comes to the things that are important to him. This does not just apply to big decisions, but also to small, everyday actions. He is a man you can count on. He is there when people need him and he gives the best advice. He keeps his promises and lives his life according to his values as best as he can at all times. When he realizes that something goes against his values, he simply stops doing it. Actions are the foundations of words; not the other way around. I realize now how rare (and valuable) this quality is, and I am always grateful when I meet other people like this.<br />
Dad has often reminded me of the importance of actions, for example whenever he noticed that my actions didn't match my words or when some of my actions were not in line with my values. He has done so all my life and he still does so if necessary, so I've had a lifetime of practice. In this way, my dad has taught me to be mindful, reflective and to take responsibility for my words and actions: to live life with integrity (and true to myself).<br />
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<b>If you want something and it doesn’t exist yet (or it is not allowed); create it.</b><br />
My
dad was always fascinated by cars and of course he wanted his own. But
he was only a little boy, so he did not have the money to buy one and he
didn't even have a driver's license. So he built his own car, with the
help of his father, when he was 6 years old. It was made from some
leftover car parts and had an electrical motor. He kept refining it and
perfecting it until he was about 16. When he was 12 he made his first
car with a petrol-driven motor. So my dad had a lot of driving
experience when he was finally legally allowed to drive (at age 18).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My dad's first self-built electric car! In this picture he was around 7 or 8</td></tr>
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<b>Never give up on your dreams; if you want it, you can achieve it</b><br />
It is almost like my dad never has any doubts when I share my dreams with him. Sometimes of course he has some concerns or tips regarding practicalities, but he believes in the power of will. If you really want something and if the goal is worthwhile and meaningful, then you will achieve it; there is just no question. That is how my dad also lives his life. He never doubted any of his dreams, and he achieved them all, despite what anyone else thought. I guess it also helps that my dad knows how to keep it simple. He knows that he doesn't need much to be happy. His main dream was to own a small company and run a business making something useful. He achieved this goal in his early forties, even though it was a tough road.<br />
Nobody else believed that he could ever make it: his teachers had given up on him very early on because he was more interested in the occasional fly that landed on his desk than what the teacher was saying. His parents also weren't sure he would ever amount to anything because he was doing so poorly at school. They made him change schools six times, but to no avail. Dad just didn't care much for traditional ways of learning. He has a gift for technical work though, and building things from scratch. Dad knew this all along - which is why he never worried about his future. He knew he would be okay. After all, he was already the proud owner of a car at the tender age of 6. Not many people can make such a claim.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first car he didn't build himself: A Triumph Herald</td></tr>
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<b>Don’t be afraid to work hard for something you really want – and don’t lose sight of what is important in the process</b><br />
My dad is retired now, but he has always been a hard worker. He<b> </b>never worked for the money, but simply because he enjoys the process of creating things. He worked as a dental technician for all his life. He never counted his hours and often worked 16 hours a day (sometimes more); often with some additional hours on the weekends. He never requested any extra pay for overtime (and never got any), because money was not his main priority.<br />
The extra hours were often necessary due to problems with other staff (prolonged sickness; holidays) while the workload remained the same. My dad is a pragmatic and reliable person so he would always make sure that the work got done; finishing one thing at a time. Of course he got the position of manager soon enough and took over the business several years later. All the while he kept working long hours; making sure that everyone else could always go home in time. And he never complained about it.<br />
<br />
<b><b>The importance of giving</b></b><br />
My dad never wanted much for himself.
He is happy living a simple life and appreciates the little things. He
doesn’t need a lot of stuff and would rather give to others than get a
lot of stuff for himself. He was like that even as a little boy. When he
was young (around seven years old) he won a competition and he got to choose between several
prizes. He chose a sewing kit. Everybody laughed at him because it was a 'girly' choice and his classmates (as well as the teacher) made fun of him for weeks. However, the reason he chose it was because his sister was ill at the time and he was hoping that giving her an unexpected gift might cheer her up.<b><br /></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-42wHVDpClA4/V4Jv54L5aNI/AAAAAAAACP8/h0ajjRzIC7A67fFPlYQtjo7chzUuUigQwCLcB/s1600/P1070210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-42wHVDpClA4/V4Jv54L5aNI/AAAAAAAACP8/h0ajjRzIC7A67fFPlYQtjo7chzUuUigQwCLcB/s320/P1070210.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Having fun watching mum when she is politely declining <br />
the offers of overzealous sales-people</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
<b><b>Stand up for what you believe in</b></b><br />
My
dad is a man of principle. He would never do anything if he didn’t
support it on some level, and he expects the same from others. He is not
afraid to say no, but he only says it when something goes against his
values. If not, then he is always ready to help anyone who may need it.<br />
When my dad was 24 years old, he had to go into the army (it was compulsory at the time). It was a place he had no intention of going to because he does not believe in war, but there were only a few ways to get out of it: one was to get married, one to get imprisoned and the final one was failing the physical or mental tests. Even though my mum and dad were already dating at the time, they decided they wanted to get married for the right reasons and at a time that felt right for them. So my dad went for the final option.<br />
He still gave the army a try for one week, but after that he was extremely certain he wanted nothing to do with it. He stopped eating and started feigning other psychological symptoms. He was relieved from his duties immediately and put under investigation. After three months of thorough investigations and examinations (and losing too much weight due to the ongoing self-starvation), he was free to go. During the process of investigations he was coached by his brother (a psychologist), who gave him useful tips on how to respond to the inquisitions. After he was 'released', he got a permanent mark on his records of his 'disability' and he was warned by government officials that he would never get another job with this. My dad took the chance anyway.<br />
Of course nobody ever cared about it afterwards and the subject was never brought up again (even though it is still on his records to this day). I am very proud of my dad for taking a stand against the army despite the threats and pressure to comply, and for not caring about what others would think or what the consequences would be.<b> </b>Freedom is worth fighting for; borders are not!<b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>Stand by your own side</b><br />
You can stand strong by yourself; you don’t need others on your side to stand stronger. If you know how to support yourself no matter what, you will be invincible.<br />
I
remember an event that happened when I was very young (perhaps around 6 or 7 years
old). I was buying second-hand horse magazines from another child, and
we were trying to get to a deal. I was telling her how much I wanted to
spend, and the girl said how much she was expecting to get; the typical
bargaining one learns early on. Of course we did not entirely agree and
the girl quickly asked her mum. Mum got involved and gave some advice on
pricing. I still did not agree. The girl kept checking with her mum and
eventually we reached an agreement. Afterwards I asked my dad why he
didn’t get involved to support me. And he said that he was so proud of
me that I didn’t ask his help. He said that I was in a much stronger
position because I did not show any doubt and merely expressed my own
wishes and beliefs, without involving anyone else. That was a much
stronger argument than that of the other girl. He did not want to interfere
and ruin that. Even though it was a small incident, it was a defining
moment in my life, because my dad gave me a completely different
perspective on the situation, which taught me self-respect.<br />
My dad has always believed
in me, especially at times when I did not believe in myself (or anything
else) anymore. He has always reminded me (and he still does) of my
worth and my talents, and the difference I can make in the world. We all
have this ability to make a difference. None of us is more special or more talented than another; we
just have different kinds of talents. That is the main reason why it is so
important to find your passion. Passion is what can - and does!- change the world!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Tm1Wprzh2I/V4J9dF8ye3I/AAAAAAAACQs/5WPk28r0NaUnNGPLDs1_guQ4hItt7jLcgCLcB/s1600/de%2Beerste%2Bmet%2Bbenzine%2Bmoter%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Tm1Wprzh2I/V4J9dF8ye3I/AAAAAAAACQs/5WPk28r0NaUnNGPLDs1_guQ4hItt7jLcgCLcB/s320/de%2Beerste%2Bmet%2Bbenzine%2Bmoter%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My dad's new-and-improved car (fuel-driven) when he was about 14</td></tr>
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<br />
<b>Never lose your sense of humor</b><br />
My dad makes the best jokes in the world, because they are always clever and never mean or cheap (they don't involve bringing down people, subgroups or any other form of life). They are mostly situational, or puns. He is really funny and it is catchy. When I am with my dad, he brings out the best in me and we have the best of times.<br />
Dad has never lost his sense of humor, throughout his life. Even when he was in hospital after suffering a brain aneurysm and we all thought he was going to die, he was still making people around him laugh and changing the hospital into a more cheerful place. Sometimes I take life too seriously, but when I talk to my dad, I am reminded that life is better with a sense of humor. It puts everything in perspective.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qAHpFmtYtVU/V4JxtDjyoUI/AAAAAAAACQM/6RoT5AaAGBsIQu6WAsLxKgr4UMDrs3g_ACKgB/s1600/P1070131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qAHpFmtYtVU/V4JxtDjyoUI/AAAAAAAACQM/6RoT5AaAGBsIQu6WAsLxKgr4UMDrs3g_ACKgB/s320/P1070131.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laughing at dad's funny comments. Pure joy! :D</td></tr>
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<br />
<b>L<b>oyalty and standing up for others (justice)</b></b><br />
My dad is a loyal friend who will always have your back and stick up for people when necessary. When my dad started working at 18 or 19 years old, his boss was complaining to all the employees that it was all so expensive. He was paying for the employees to get their training and then they were also requesting a pay rise (minimum wage had just gone up).<br />
This made my dad angry because the boss was a wealthy man who should really not complain about such matters to his staff, so my dad decided to make a statement. He requested a talk with his boss in his office and said that he didn't want the raise if the boss was going to complain about it to everyone and blame his staff members, because my dad had never personally asked for it in the first place. The boss then admitted that that was not possible, because the government forced him to pay this amount. Dad told him that he shouldn't be complaining about it then, and left the office to get back to work.<br />
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<b>Tolerance</b><br />
Dad taught me to be respectful of others, because you never know their full story, even if you think they told you. You can never know people's intentions, or their hopes and dreams, because you are not them. But there is one thing that unites all of us: We all want freedom, happiness and we want to matter. We want to be acknowledged and respected as human beings. We want to belong. And if we keep this in mind, the world is a very friendly place indeed.<br />
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<br />
There are always inspiring people around us and we can learn from all of them. My dad has always been my hero, and I have discovered many other inspiring people who have taught me various things as well. Different people can teach you different skills and perspectives, and we can take bits and pieces from everyone we meet and combine them to build up our own perfect self; in line with our personal truths, beliefs and values.<br />
<br />
May you find inspiration in your fellow beings!<br />
<br />
Let me know in the comments who has inspired you and what you learned!<br />
<br />
<br />Liselottehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00801419446707086504noreply@blogger.com0