A random thread of absolute randomness...

[just1-4all]

The sunshine was making the steam from my coffee crazily visible! Yes, doesn't take much to entertain me. 🤓🧐😄

[just1-4all]

13 hours ago, just1-4all said:

That blows my mind a bit I must say! 🤔

 

Soooo ... that would make this time right now knowing you, and you knowing me, all the more special; since in this particular time we happen to know each other (that is to say, by some degree or another "know"). Whereas in the far distant future there will be too many people in the universe to know them all, despite having all the time in the world to do so. Right?

Angels exist apart from time, like Jehovah does right?

[dljbsp]

2 hours ago, just1-4all said:

Angels exist apart from time, like Jehovah does right?

 

Yes, angels, like Jehovah, exist beyond the bounds of time as we know it. Jehovah, being the Creator of time itself, isn’t limited by it in any way (Psalm 90:2; Isaiah 57:15). Angels, though not eternal like Jehovah, were created as spirit beings who operate in that same timeless realm, different from our linear experience of time here on earth (Colossians 1:16).

 

Being free from physical limitations, angels can carry out Jehovah’s will on a different scale. We see this in passages like Daniel 10:12-13 and Revelation 14:6, where angels are depicted moving swiftly and responding to Jehovah’s direction almost instantaneously. It’s a reminder of how Jehovah’s angels can intervene and act with a timing and perspective that far exceed our own. Their actions aren’t restricted by our sense of time but align perfectly with Jehovah’s eternal purpose and loving direction.

[dljbsp]

Some Animals Thrive Without Brains — A Fascinating Design in Nature

 

Nov 11, 2024 

 

In the marvelously diverse world of life, not every creature relies on a brain to navigate, survive, and thrive. Designed with different forms of intelligence and sensory capabilities, animals like sea urchins and earthworms live out their purposes without the central organ we often associate with thought or coordination.

 

Sea urchins, for instance, are equipped with an intricate system of nerves spread throughout their bodies, allowing them to respond to the environment without the need for a central brain. They have what’s known as a “nerve ring” near their mouth, which helps coordinate their movements and interactions. With the sensitive tube feet and spines that they use to detect and navigate, sea urchins demonstrate the beauty and practicality of their unique design.

 

Similarly, the humble earthworm doesn’t rely on a central brain but instead has a nerve cord running along the length of its body, enabling it to sense touch, light, and vibrations. Each segment of its body moves independently, making it perfectly suited for burrowing and thriving underground. This design not only allows earthworms to respond quickly to their surroundings but also ensures that they fulfill their role in soil enrichment — a task vital for healthy ecosystems.

 

These creatures show that life can function in many ways, each beautifully suited to its environment. Sea urchins and earthworms, by their unique makeup, contribute to creation’s diverse tapestry without needing a brain. Their design speaks to the brilliance behind their creation, a reminder that life’s wonders don’t always require the structures we might expect.

 

So the next time you encounter a sea urchin along the seashore or spot an earthworm in the garden, take a moment to appreciate their unique abilities and the wisdom in their design.

[LeolaRootStew]

1 hour ago, dljbsp said:

Some Animals Thrive Without Brains — A Fascinating Design in Nature

 

Nov 11, 2024 

 

In the marvelously diverse world of life, not every creature relies on a brain to navigate, survive, and thrive. Designed with different forms of intelligence and sensory capabilities, animals like sea urchins and earthworms live out their purposes without the central organ we often associate with thought or coordination.

 

Sea urchins, for instance, are equipped with an intricate system of nerves spread throughout their bodies, allowing them to respond to the environment without the need for a central brain. They have what’s known as a “nerve ring” near their mouth, which helps coordinate their movements and interactions. With the sensitive tube feet and spines that they use to detect and navigate, sea urchins demonstrate the beauty and practicality of their unique design.

 

Similarly, the humble earthworm doesn’t rely on a central brain but instead has a nerve cord running along the length of its body, enabling it to sense touch, light, and vibrations. Each segment of its body moves independently, making it perfectly suited for burrowing and thriving underground. This design not only allows earthworms to respond quickly to their surroundings but also ensures that they fulfill their role in soil enrichment — a task vital for healthy ecosystems.

 

These creatures show that life can function in many ways, each beautifully suited to its environment. Sea urchins and earthworms, by their unique makeup, contribute to creation’s diverse tapestry without needing a brain. Their design speaks to the brilliance behind their creation, a reminder that life’s wonders don’t always require the structures we might expect.

 

So the next time you encounter a sea urchin along the seashore or spot an earthworm in the garden, take a moment to appreciate their unique abilities and the wisdom in their design.

 

 

 

 

 

[Ostria]

My friend told me they found a Japanese Bob Ross. Ngl kinda enjoying this, yes it's in japamese but there are subtitles. 

 

https://youtu.be/uc5DY-wyEz0?si=kLmj9ltq-vOCWIpb

[Ostria]

36 minutes ago, Ostria said:

My friend told me they found a Japanese Bob Ross. Ngl kinda enjoying this, yes it's in japamese but there are subtitles. 

 

https://youtu.be/uc5DY-wyEz0?si=kLmj9ltq-vOCWIpb

I cant edit bur i realized i had engkish subtitles because i had the captions on. The subtitles that are in tbe video are japanese, but if you do the captions it gives you english subtitles on top of the japanese ones

[dljbsp]

Runaway Eagle Evades Capture, Fascinates Londoners for 12 Days

 

In February 1965, an unusual fugitive captured the attention of Londoners: Goldie, a golden eagle from the London Zoo, managed to escape and remain on the loose for almost two weeks. Taking to the skies around Regent’s Park, Goldie evaded multiple capture attempts and garnered significant public interest. Crowds gathered daily, hoping to catch a glimpse of the majestic bird as he soared around the city.

 

The escapade began when Goldie, a prized resident of the zoo, slipped out of his enclosure. Despite being a captive bird, he quickly adapted to his newfound freedom, avoiding zookeepers, police, and even an attempt to lure him with food.

 

Finally, after 12 days on the run, Goldie was safely recaptured on February 11, 1965, and returned to his enclosure, much to the relief of zoo staff and the delight of Londoners who followed his journey.

[LeolaRootStew]

15 minutes ago, dljbsp said:

Runaway Eagle Evades Capture, Fascinates Londoners for 12 Days

 

In February 1965, an unusual fugitive captured the attention of Londoners: Goldie, a golden eagle from the London Zoo, managed to escape and remain on the loose for almost two weeks. Taking to the skies around Regent’s Park, Goldie evaded multiple capture attempts and garnered significant public interest. Crowds gathered daily, hoping to catch a glimpse of the majestic bird as he soared around the city.

 

The escapade began when Goldie, a prized resident of the zoo, slipped out of his enclosure. Despite being a captive bird, he quickly adapted to his newfound freedom, avoiding zookeepers, police, and even an attempt to lure him with food.

 

Finally, after 12 days on the run, Goldie was safely recaptured on February 11, 1965, and returned to his enclosure, much to the relief of zoo staff and the delight of Londoners who followed his journey.

[just1-4all]

Since this threads features many references to the natural world, this seemed to be relevant with a dash of humor and a dash of Bible truth to it. 🤓🙂 

 

P.S. See if you can guess what I mean by a Bible truth.

[just1-4all]

Ecclesiastes 9:11   "Time and unforeseen occurrence befall us all"

[humble bumble bee]

 

17 hours ago, just1-4all said:

Since this threads features many references to the natural world

Has this thread morphed into a thread about nature instead of it truly being a "random thread of absolute randomness"? 

 

[dljbsp]

The Bitter Truth: How Brussels Sprouts Became a Culinary Darling

 

Once the vegetable everyone loved to hate, Brussels sprouts have undergone a dramatic transformation, shedding their reputation for bitterness and becoming a popular dish in homes and restaurants. This resurgence in popularity is thanks to a key agricultural breakthrough in the 1990s: selective breeding.

 

For decades, Brussels sprouts were infamous for their strong, bitter flavor. The culprit? Glucosinolates, naturally occurring compounds that give the vegetable its distinct taste. While these compounds have health benefits, their high concentrations made Brussels sprouts unappealing to many. Recognizing this problem, Dutch scientists and farmers began identifying and cultivating varieties with lower glucosinolate levels. Over time, these milder strains of Brussels sprouts replaced the bitter ones in commercial farming.

 

This change revolutionized the vegetable’s image. As their flavor improved, chefs and home cooks embraced Brussels sprouts, often preparing them roasted or caramelized to highlight their sweet, nutty undertones. Their newfound popularity also coincided with a growing focus on health-conscious eating, as Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.

 

Today, Brussels sprouts are celebrated as a versatile and nutritious ingredient, marking a remarkable turnaround for a vegetable that once languished on the sidelines of the dinner table. Thanks to science and culinary creativity, the Brussels sprout has gone from bitter to beloved.

[LeolaRootStew]

6 minutes ago, dljbsp said:

The Bitter Truth: How Brussels Sprouts Became a Culinary Darling

 

Once the vegetable everyone loved to hate, Brussels sprouts have undergone a dramatic transformation, shedding their reputation for bitterness and becoming a popular dish in homes and restaurants. This resurgence in popularity is thanks to a key agricultural breakthrough in the 1990s: selective breeding.

 

For decades, Brussels sprouts were infamous for their strong, bitter flavor. The culprit? Glucosinolates, naturally occurring compounds that give the vegetable its distinct taste. While these compounds have health benefits, their high concentrations made Brussels sprouts unappealing to many. Recognizing this problem, Dutch scientists and farmers began identifying and cultivating varieties with lower glucosinolate levels. Over time, these milder strains of Brussels sprouts replaced the bitter ones in commercial farming.

 

This change revolutionized the vegetable’s image. As their flavor improved, chefs and home cooks embraced Brussels sprouts, often preparing them roasted or caramelized to highlight their sweet, nutty undertones. Their newfound popularity also coincided with a growing focus on health-conscious eating, as Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.

 

Today, Brussels sprouts are celebrated as a versatile and nutritious ingredient, marking a remarkable turnaround for a vegetable that once languished on the sidelines of the dinner table. Thanks to science and culinary creativity, the Brussels sprout has gone from bitter to beloved.

 

LIES! FAKE NEWS! THEY ARE STILL GROSS!

 

[dljbsp]

8 minutes ago, LeolaRootStew said:

LIES! FAKE NEWS! THEY ARE STILL GROSS!

I agree, but the grossness has improved. Lima beans or another one I don't like.

[dljbsp]

World’s Oldest Organism: Utah’s Pando Aspen Grove Faces Challenges to Survival

 

Fishlake National Forest, Utah – Hidden in the serene landscape of Utah’s Fishlake National Forest lies one of Earth’s most extraordinary natural wonders: the Pando Aspen Grove. At first glance, it may seem like a typical forest, but Pando is much more. It’s one of the world’s largest and oldest living organisms—a single organism made up of over 47,000 genetically identical aspen trunks, all connected by an ancient underground root system.

 

Spanning over 106 acres, Pando (Latin for “I spread”) is a marvel of resilience. Scientists estimate its root system is at least 80,000 years old, making it one of the oldest known living entities on Earth. Its interconnected nature means each tree trunk is essentially a stem sprouting from the same root system, which periodically regenerates itself with new shoots to replace aging trunks.

 

However, Pando’s future is at risk. Challenges from grazing deer and elk, human activity, and climate change are inhibiting its natural regeneration. New shoots struggle to survive, threatening the grove’s long-term vitality. Conservationists are working to protect Pando, implementing measures like fencing to shield young growth from overgrazing.

 

Pando is more than a scientific curiosity—it’s a symbol of life’s interconnectedness and resilience. As scientists and conservationists rally to safeguard it, Pando remains a poignant reminder of the delicate balance in nature and the need for proactive stewardship.

 

For now, Pando continues to endure, standing as a living testament to Earth’s ancient past and the complex web of life it supports.

[LeolaRootStew]

2 hours ago, dljbsp said:

World’s Oldest Organism: Utah’s Pando Aspen Grove Faces Challenges to Survival

 

Fishlake National Forest, Utah – Hidden in the serene landscape of Utah’s Fishlake National Forest lies one of Earth’s most extraordinary natural wonders: the Pando Aspen Grove. At first glance, it may seem like a typical forest, but Pando is much more. It’s one of the world’s largest and oldest living organisms—a single organism made up of over 47,000 genetically identical aspen trunks, all connected by an ancient underground root system.

 

Spanning over 106 acres, Pando (Latin for “I spread”) is a marvel of resilience. Scientists estimate its root system is at least 80,000 years old, making it one of the oldest known living entities on Earth. Its interconnected nature means each tree trunk is essentially a stem sprouting from the same root system, which periodically regenerates itself with new shoots to replace aging trunks.

 

However, Pando’s future is at risk. Challenges from grazing deer and elk, human activity, and climate change are inhibiting its natural regeneration. New shoots struggle to survive, threatening the grove’s long-term vitality. Conservationists are working to protect Pando, implementing measures like fencing to shield young growth from overgrazing.

 

Pando is more than a scientific curiosity—it’s a symbol of life’s interconnectedness and resilience. As scientists and conservationists rally to safeguard it, Pando remains a poignant reminder of the delicate balance in nature and the need for proactive stewardship.

 

For now, Pando continues to endure, standing as a living testament to Earth’s ancient past and the complex web of life it supports.

 

 

 

[StarHope]

Has anyone ever heard of tardigrades? They are near indestructible, and can even survive the vacuum of space! They are “cute” in a creepy way. 

 

Short info on them:

Tardigrades, also known as "water bears" or "moss piglets," are remarkable microscopic invertebrates belonging to the phylum Tardigrada. Typically measuring around 1 mm in length, they inhabit diverse environments, including damp moss, soil, and aquatic ecosystems worldwide.

 One of their most astonishing traits is their ability to survive extreme conditions that would be lethal to most life forms. Tardigrades can endure temperatures ranging from nearly absolute zero (-272°C) to over 150°C, as well as intense pressures and radiation levels far exceeding what humans can withstand.

They achieve this resilience by entering a cryptobiotic state, in which they expel most of their body water and significantly slow their metabolism, allowing them to survive for years without water.

This unique adaptation not only makes tardigrades one of the most resilient organisms on Earth but also positions them as subjects of interest for scientific research into survival mechanisms under extreme environmental stress.

 

[LeolaRootStew]

50 minutes ago, StarHope said:

Has anyone ever heard of tardigrades? They are near indestructible, and can even survive the vacuum of space! They are “cute” in a creepy way. 

 

Short info on them:

Tardigrades, also known as "water bears" or "moss piglets," are remarkable microscopic invertebrates belonging to the phylum Tardigrada. Typically measuring around 1 mm in length, they inhabit diverse environments, including damp moss, soil, and aquatic ecosystems worldwide.

 One of their most astonishing traits is their ability to survive extreme conditions that would be lethal to most life forms. Tardigrades can endure temperatures ranging from nearly absolute zero (-272°C) to over 150°C, as well as intense pressures and radiation levels far exceeding what humans can withstand.

They achieve this resilience by entering a cryptobiotic state, in which they expel most of their body water and significantly slow their metabolism, allowing them to survive for years without water.

This unique adaptation not only makes tardigrades one of the most resilient organisms on Earth but also positions them as subjects of interest for scientific research into survival mechanisms under extreme environmental stress.

 

 

I remember hearing about Water Bears a few years ago.

 

[dljbsp]

Do Plants Sleep? The Science Behind Their “Rest”

 

When it comes to the natural world, plants often take a backseat to animals in discussions about sleep. But science reveals an intriguing truth: while plants don’t “sleep” as humans or animals do, they do follow a daily rhythm of activity that resembles rest.

 

Unlike animals, plants lack consciousness or a brain, so they don’t experience sleep in the traditional sense. However, they operate on a circadian rhythm—a 24-hour internal clock that governs periods of activity and rest. This rhythm, influenced by environmental cues like light and darkness, allows plants to function efficiently and adapt to their surroundings.

 

The Nightlife of Plants

 

During the night, plants enter a phase of reduced activity, where energy-intensive processes like photosynthesis pause. Instead, they focus on tasks such as cell repair, nutrient storage, and root growth. Some plants even display visible signs of rest through movements known as nyctinasty. For instance:

• Legumes like clover or mimosa fold their leaves at night.

• Flowers such as morning glories close their petals after sundown.

 

These movements, regulated by the circadian rhythm, help conserve energy and prepare plants for the next day’s activities.

 

Why Plants “Rest”

 

The circadian rhythm serves several critical purposes for plants:

1. Energy Optimization: By timing photosynthesis for daylight hours and conserving energy at night, plants maximize their efficiency.

2. Environmental Adaptation: Anticipating changes in light, temperature, and humidity helps plants thrive in dynamic conditions.

 

Even in controlled environments with constant light or darkness, many plants continue their daily patterns for some time. This demonstrates the internal regulation of their biological clocks, although they eventually require external cues to stay synchronized with the day-night cycle.

 

A Fascinating Parallel

 

While plants don’t “dream” or experience consciousness, their natural rhythms echo the need for rest seen across all living organisms. As scientists continue to explore the complexities of plant behavior, one thing is clear: there’s more going on beneath the leaves than meets the eye.

 

So, the next time you see a flower closing at dusk or leaves folding in the evening, consider it a quiet nod to nature’s shared rhythms—a gentle reminder that even plants, in their own way, need time to rest.

[LeolaRootStew]

2 minutes ago, dljbsp said:

Do Plants Sleep? The Science Behind Their “Rest”

 

When it comes to the natural world, plants often take a backseat to animals in discussions about sleep. But science reveals an intriguing truth: while plants don’t “sleep” as humans or animals do, they do follow a daily rhythm of activity that resembles rest.

 

Unlike animals, plants lack consciousness or a brain, so they don’t experience sleep in the traditional sense. However, they operate on a circadian rhythm—a 24-hour internal clock that governs periods of activity and rest. This rhythm, influenced by environmental cues like light and darkness, allows plants to function efficiently and adapt to their surroundings.

 

The Nightlife of Plants

 

During the night, plants enter a phase of reduced activity, where energy-intensive processes like photosynthesis pause. Instead, they focus on tasks such as cell repair, nutrient storage, and root growth. Some plants even display visible signs of rest through movements known as nyctinasty. For instance:

• Legumes like clover or mimosa fold their leaves at night.

• Flowers such as morning glories close their petals after sundown.

 

These movements, regulated by the circadian rhythm, help conserve energy and prepare plants for the next day’s activities.

 

Why Plants “Rest”

 

The circadian rhythm serves several critical purposes for plants:

1. Energy Optimization: By timing photosynthesis for daylight hours and conserving energy at night, plants maximize their efficiency.

2. Environmental Adaptation: Anticipating changes in light, temperature, and humidity helps plants thrive in dynamic conditions.

 

Even in controlled environments with constant light or darkness, many plants continue their daily patterns for some time. This demonstrates the internal regulation of their biological clocks, although they eventually require external cues to stay synchronized with the day-night cycle.

 

A Fascinating Parallel

 

While plants don’t “dream” or experience consciousness, their natural rhythms echo the need for rest seen across all living organisms. As scientists continue to explore the complexities of plant behavior, one thing is clear: there’s more going on beneath the leaves than meets the eye.

 

So, the next time you see a flower closing at dusk or leaves folding in the evening, consider it a quiet nod to nature’s shared rhythms—a gentle reminder that even plants, in their own way, need time to rest.

[just1-4all]

On 11/16/2024 at 9:48 PM, LeolaRootStew said:

 

I remember hearing about Water Bears a few years ago.

 

They are all so cute!!!

[dljbsp]

Oleander: The Flower That Symbolizes Hiroshima’s Resilience

 

Hiroshima, Japan—In the wake of the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945, Hiroshima was reduced to ashes, with widespread belief that the city would remain barren for decades due to the intense heat and radiation. Yet, amid the devastation, a symbol of hope emerged: the oleander (Nerium), the first flower to bloom in the city after the attack.

 

The oleander’s unexpected resurgence became a powerful emblem of Hiroshima’s resilience and recovery. In 1973, the oleander was officially designated as the city’s flower, a tribute to its role as a natural survivor and a source of inspiration for a city rising from the ashes.

 

The oleander is well-suited to thrive under difficult conditions, requiring minimal water and adapting to various soil types. These qualities may explain its rapid growth following the bombing. A typhoon that struck the area on September 17, 1945, brought fresh soil and may have further aided the plant’s regrowth, according to Grunge.

 

As Hiroshima Mayor Kazumi Matsui observed during a 2020 peace ceremony, “The oleander reminds us that even in the most extreme adversity, life finds a way forward. Its blossoms encourage us to hope and to persevere.”

 

Today, the oleander is more than a flower; it is a symbol of Hiroshima’s enduring spirit and commitment to peace. The city incorporates the flower into memorial events and public spaces, ensuring its legacy as a reminder of the strength that emerged from tragedy.

 

Contributors:

• Grunge.com, for insights into the scientific resilience of the oleander and historical context.

• City of Hiroshima Official Website, for background on the designation of the oleander as the city’s flower and its role in memorial events.

[just1-4all]

On 11/15/2024 at 8:54 AM, LeolaRootStew said:

 

LIES! FAKE NEWS! THEY ARE STILL GROSS!

 

 

Not all witches are bright 🤓

[dljbsp]

Oleander: The Flower That Symbolizes Hiroshima’s Resilience

 

Hiroshima, Japan—In the wake of the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945, Hiroshima was reduced to ashes, with widespread belief that the city would remain barren for decades due to the intense heat and radiation. Yet, amid the devastation, a symbol of hope emerged: the oleander (Nerium), the first flower to bloom in the city after the attack.

 

The oleander’s unexpected resurgence became a powerful emblem of Hiroshima’s resilience and recovery. In 1973, the oleander was officially designated as the city’s flower, a tribute to its role as a natural survivor and a source of inspiration for a city rising from the ashes.

 

The oleander is well-suited to thrive under difficult conditions, requiring minimal water and adapting to various soil types. These qualities may explain its rapid growth following the bombing. A typhoon that struck the area on September 17, 1945, brought fresh soil and may have further aided the plant’s regrowth, according to Grunge.

 

As Hiroshima Mayor Kazumi Matsui observed during a 2020 peace ceremony, “The oleander reminds us that even in the most extreme adversity, life finds a way forward. Its blossoms encourage us to hope and to persevere.”

 

Today, the oleander is more than a flower; it is a symbol of Hiroshima’s enduring spirit and commitment to peace. The city incorporates the flower into memorial events and public spaces, ensuring its legacy as a reminder of the strength that emerged from tragedy.

 

Contributors:

• Grunge.com, for insights into the scientific resilience of the oleander and historical context.

• City of Hiroshima Official Website, for background on the designation of the oleander as the city’s flower and its role in memorial events.