Key take away points from 2023

Here’s some of the things that I’ve learned along the way-

  • Put physiology first: This means more weightlifting, more red meat, more sunlight, more walking, more sleep.
  • Imperfection is perfection: There is no such thing as good or bad photographs.
  • Longevity is the goal: I want to make pictures until I die. This means the process must be easy and fun.
  • Don’t take yourself so seriously: This is the year of becoming the silly goose. Life’s too short.

Philanthropy

The love of humanity –

The etymology of “philanthropy” traces back to the Greek words “philos,” meaning “loving” or “fond of,” and “anthrōpos,” meaning “human being” or “man.” Therefore, philanthropy literally means “love of humanity.” This concept emphasizes caring, nourishing, developing, and enhancing what it is to be human on both the benefactors’ (by identifying and exercising their values in giving and volunteering) and the beneficiaries’ (by receiving the assistance) sides.

E pluribus unum

“E pluribus unum” is a Latin phrase that means “Out of many, one.” It has been used as a motto of the United States, symbolizing the union of the different states into a single nation. The phrase emphasizes unity in diversity, suggesting that out of many individual states or people, a single entity emerges. This motto is often associated with the idea of the melting pot, where different cultures and backgrounds contribute to the strength and unity of the whole.

SPQR

“SPQR” stands for “Senatus Populusque Romanus,” which translates to “The Senate and People of Rome.” This phrase was a symbol of the Roman Republic and appeared on coins, at the end of documents, on dedications, and on the standards of the Roman legions. It represented the government of the ancient Roman Republic and is often used as a symbol of Roman strength and unity.

Jesus of Nazareth as a philosopher

Viewing Jesus of Nazareth as a philosopher focuses on his teachings and ideas from a philosophical rather than strictly religious perspective. In this view, Jesus is considered for his contributions to ethical and moral thought, independent of the supernatural and religious aspects traditionally associated with him in Christianity.

Key elements of Jesus’ teachings that are often examined philosophically include:

  1. Ethical Teachings: Jesus’ emphasis on love, compassion, forgiveness, and treating others as one would wish to be treated (the Golden Rule) are central to his moral philosophy. These teachings have been influential in various ethical theories and discussions on human behavior and morality.
  2. Social and Political Commentary: Jesus’ teachings often challenged the social and political norms of his time, advocating for the poor, marginalized, and oppressed. This aspect of his work has been analyzed in the context of social justice and political philosophy.
  3. Existential and Humanistic Elements: Some of Jesus’ teachings touch upon existential themes, such as the search for meaning, the value of the individual, and living an authentic life. These aspects align with certain principles in existentialist and humanist philosophies.
  4. Parables and Teaching Methods: Jesus often used parables and storytelling to convey his messages, a method that can be seen as a philosophical tool for illustrating complex moral and ethical concepts in a relatable way.
  5. Nonviolence and Peaceful Resistance: His teachings on turning the other cheek and nonviolent resistance have been influential in various philosophical and political movements, notably in the works of figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.

It’s important to note that while Jesus is recognized as a significant moral and ethical teacher in this perspective, the philosophical view is distinct from the religious view of Jesus as a divine figure in Christianity. Philosophical interpretations focus on his ideas and their application to human thought and society, rather than on spiritual or religious doctrines.

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