With wandering thoughts, Billy clicked on ChatGPT to explore ideas. So far he has found ChatGPT very helpful, indeed. The below are the Questions he posed:

Can Yin & Yang , Extreme Opposites Co-Exist – How ?   

What Turns People Bad? What Turns Them Around ?

Stories On Misguided Persons Turn Good and How.

Stories On How Certain Catalysts Help Transform People.

______________________________________________________

ChatGPT’s Replies below:

Can Yin & Yang, Extreme Opposites, Basic Ideologic Differences Co-Exist?  How can we? – Billy Asked

ChatGPT

Yes, Yin and Yang, representing extreme opposites and fundamental ideological differences, can indeed coexist. The concept of Yin and Yang originates from Chinese philosophy and represents the dynamic interplay and balance between opposing forces. It suggests that opposing elements are not mutually exclusive but are interconnected and necessary for the existence of one another.

To foster coexistence and balance between extreme opposites or ideological differences, here are a few suggestions:

1. Acknowledge the interdependence: Recognize that extreme opposites or ideological differences are not isolated entities but are part of a larger system. Just as Yin and Yang complement each other, understanding the interdependence between opposing ideas can lead to a more harmonious coexistence.
2. Seek common ground: Despite differences, there may be areas of common interest or shared values. Identifying and focusing on these commonalities can create a basis for mutual understanding and collaboration. It allows for constructive dialogue and finding solutions that accommodate diverse perspectives.
3. Practice empathy and active listening: Empathy plays a crucial role in understanding others’ viewpoints, even if they differ significantly from your own. Practice active listening by genuinely seeking to understand the underlying reasons and emotions behind opposing ideas. This can foster empathy and open the door for productive conversations.
4. Embrace diversity: Recognize the value of diversity and the richness it brings to society. Embracing diverse perspectives can lead to innovative solutions and a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues. Encourage inclusivity, respect, and tolerance for different viewpoints.
5. Constructive dialogue and compromise: Engage in constructive dialogue where ideas are exchanged, and thoughtful arguments are presented. Create an environment where compromise is seen as a strength rather than a weakness. Finding middle ground or alternative solutions that incorporate elements from both extremes can foster coexistence and balance.
6. Focus on shared goals: Identify common objectives that can unite individuals or groups with opposing ideologies. By directing attention to shared goals, the focus shifts from differences to collective aspirations. This shared purpose can facilitate cooperation and coexistence.
7. Education and awareness: Promote education and awareness about different perspectives and ideologies. Encourage critical thinking, dialogue, and understanding within educational institutions, communities, and society at large. This helps break down stereotypes and fosters an atmosphere of acceptance and mutual respect.

Remember that coexistence does not necessarily imply agreement or the elimination of differences. It means creating an environment where diverse ideas can peacefully coexist, enriching society with their unique contributions.

___________________________________________________

What Turns People Bad – Lust. Greed. Power, Anger, Jealousy, etc. etc. ?  What turns some Around ?

ChatGPT

There are numerous factors that can contribute to individuals exhibiting negative behaviors or becoming “bad.” While it is important to note that human behavior is complex and multifaceted, several common factors are often associated with the development of negative traits or actions.  Here are a few examples:

1. Personal experiences: Traumatic experiences, abuse, neglect, or significant emotional events can shape a person’s behavior. These experiences can sometimes lead individuals to adopt negative coping mechanisms or develop a negative worldview.
2. Environmental influences: Surrounding environments, such as a dysfunctional family, negative peer groups, or exposure to violence and crime, can have a profound impact on a person’s behavior. Growing up in an unhealthy or toxic environment can contribute to the development of negative traits.
3. Psychological factors: Certain psychological conditions, such as antisocial personality disorder, narcissism, or psychopathy, may be associated with a higher likelihood of engaging in harmful or manipulative behavior. These disorders can affect an individual’s ability to empathize with others and regulate their own emotions.
4. Societal influences: Cultural, social, and economic factors can also play a role in shaping behavior. Factors such as income inequality, discrimination, or societal norms that promote aggression or exploitation can contribute to negative behaviors in some individuals.
5. Personal values and beliefs: Sometimes, a person’s personal values and beliefs can lead them to engage in negative actions. For example, someone driven by extreme ideologies or a skewed moral compass may justify harmful behaviors based on their beliefs.

It is important to remember that not everyone who experiences these factors will necessarily turn “bad.” Human behavior is influenced by a complex interplay of various factors, including individual choices and personal agency. Furthermore, individuals have the capacity for change and growth, and many can overcome negative influences or traits through self-reflection, therapy, and personal development.

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Stories On Misguided Persons Turned Good.  How And What Helped ? 

ChatGPT

There are numerous stories in literature, mythology, and real life that depict evil individuals who undergo a transformation and ultimately embrace goodness. While the specific circumstances and factors that lead to their change may vary, here are a few examples:

1. Darth Vader/Anakin Skywalker (Star Wars): Anakin Skywalker starts as a promising Jedi Knight but is eventually consumed by the dark side of the Force and becomes Darth Vader, a Sith Lord. However, when confronted by his son, Luke Skywalker, and witnessing the Emperor’s cruelty, Anakin rediscovers his love for his son and sacrifices himself to save him. His love and the realization of the consequences of his actions help him find redemption.
2. Severus Snape (Harry Potter series): Initially portrayed as a cold and malicious character, Severus Snape’s true intentions are gradually revealed throughout the Harry Potter series. It is ultimately disclosed that Snape had been working as a double agent to protect Harry Potter and thwart Voldemort’s plans. His love for Harry’s mother, Lily, fuels his change and his actions ultimately contribute to the defeat of Voldemort.
3. Jean Valjean (Les Misérables): In Victor Hugo’s novel, Jean Valjean starts as a hardened criminal who served a lengthy prison sentence for stealing a loaf of bread. After being shown kindness by a bishop, Valjean is profoundly moved and decides to turn his life around. He adopts a new identity and dedicates himself to acts of compassion and charity, becoming a force for good in the lives of others.
4. The Grinch (How the Grinch Stole Christmas): Dr. Seuss’ tale depicts the Grinch as a bitter and spiteful creature who despises Christmas. However, upon witnessing the joy and love of the WHO’s in Whoville, the Grinch experiences a change of heart. He realizes the true meaning of Christmas and transforms from a malicious character to one filled with kindness and generosity.
5. Real-life examples: There have been instances where individuals involved in criminal activities or extremist ideologies have undergone personal transformations and turned away from their past actions. Factors that contribute to these changes can include personal reflection, encounters with empathetic individuals, education, therapy, spiritual or religious experiences, and finding a sense of purpose or belonging in a positive community.

These stories highlight that even the most seemingly irredeemable individuals can undergo a change of heart and choose a path of goodness and redemption. The catalysts for their transformation often involve experiences that evoke empathy, self-reflection, love, or exposure to alternative perspectives that challenge their previous beliefs and actions.

_____________________________________________________

Stories on “How” certain catalysts help transform people from thinking and doing Evil to Good. 

ChatGPT

Once upon a time, in a small village nestled amidst lush green fields, there lived a young man named Ethan. Ethan was known throughout the village for his mischievous nature and cunning behavior. He would often manipulate others, causing conflicts and strife in the community. People feared and mistrusted him, as his actions seemed to serve only his selfish interests.

One sunny day, as Ethan wandered through the village, he stumbled upon an old bookstore tucked away in a quiet corner. Curiosity sparked within him, and he stepped inside, unaware of the transformative journey that awaited him.

Inside the bookstore, Ethan discovered a dusty old book with an intriguing title: “The Power of Compassion.” As he began to read, the words on the pages seemed to pierce through his callous exterior, touching the depths of his soul. The book recounted stories of individuals who had transformed their lives from darkness to light through the power of compassion and empathy.

Intrigued by these stories, Ethan decided to embark on a quest to understand and embrace compassion. He reached out to the village elders, seeking their guidance on how to change his ways. The elders, initially skeptical of his intentions, recognized his genuine desire for transformation and agreed to mentor him.

Under the guidance of the elders, Ethan started engaging in acts of kindness and selflessness. He spent time with the less fortunate, helping them in any way he could. He listened to their stories, shared their sorrows, and rejoiced in their triumphs. Through these experiences, Ethan began to understand the pain and suffering he had caused others and the power of compassion to heal.     The villagers  began to forgive him, realizing that everyone has the capacity for change.

News of Ethan’s transformation spread throughout the region, inspiring others to examine their own lives and consider the power of compassion. The villagers, once divided and suspicious, came together, recognizing the strength in unity and understanding.

Ethan’s journey from evil to good became a legend that was passed down through generations. His story served as a catalyst for change, reminding people that even the most seemingly irredeemable individuals have the potential for transformation when touched by the power of compassion.

And so, the village that was once marked by strife and fear became a testament to the profound impact that compassion can have on transforming the minds and actions of those who were once trapped in darkness.

CONCLUSION:  Billy Learned : PROMOTE FRIENDSHIP – TAP THE POWER OF COMPASSION – IN THOUGHTS AND IN DEEDS.

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Chinese Tea Culture

Tea is considered special if served on hills with mist or cool breezes and in the moonlight. “The Chinese emphasize the harmony between humans and nature.

Chinese teacups are small because this allows for a better focus on taste and overall appreciation of the tea.

Chinese Golden Dragon Gongfu Tea Set with Black Stone Tea Tray for you to make your tea perfectly in Gongfu tea ceremony, known for its beauty and artistry.  You will begin to enjoy every nuance of taste and aroma from your tea. Using this gongfu tea set with tea tray, you will find yourself in extremely tranquil artistic mood while sipping a cup of excellent tea. Meaningful Conversations Follow.

GETTING TO KNOW CHINESE TEAWARE – Keats Blog

1 THE LIDDED TEA BOWL (盖碗/găiwăn) & FAIRNESS PITCHER (公道杯/gōngdaò bēi) · 2 PURPLE SAND TEAPOT (紫砂茶壶/zĭshà cháhú) · 3 TEA TRAY (茶盘/chápán) · 4 SCENT CUP …

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Japanese Tea Culture

Japanese tea culture, or “chado” (also known as “sado” or “chanoyu”), is a tradition of preparing and serving tea that has been practiced in Japan for over 800 years. The practice of chado emphasizes the principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility, and it is seen as a form of art and a way of cultivating mindfulness and spiritual awareness.

The ceremony is often conducted in a special tea room called a “chashitsu,” which is designed to create a sense of harmony and tranquility.

ANCIENT JAPANESE TEA HOUSE SET IN AN ORNATE ZEN GARDEN  – Encouraging EMPATHY, COMPASSION, & CONNECTING

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Dear Prof. An,

Please correct the words for me as needed.

My 6th grade Chinese is still pretty remarkable however,

don’t you think ? Too Bad: that’s best I have, and

that’s what I write apologetically. Cheers !

From the Heart.

Billy – Lee Ming Sing

李会长：您好！

您已经写得很棒！很了不起！ 根据您的要求，提点修改建议。

中文骈句的规则，一是对仗，二是平仄，三是押韵。三者都具备，念起来就会朗朗上口，容易记诵。 修改如下：

人生一世

春暖秋寒

追善少恶

追恶少善

宽仁慈爱

美满百年

这样修改，基本符合上面说的对仗、平仄、押韵三个条件。大意如下：

人的一生很短，

就像植物春天生长秋天凋零一样，很快就会结束。

追求善良的人少恶习，

追求恶行的人少良知。

只有那些宽厚、仁义、慈悲、友爱的善良之人，

才能百年美满，无悔人生。

供您参考

安蓉泉于杭州

________________________________________

It’s true that different drinks can create different modes of friendship. For example, sharing a cup of tea can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, while sharing a beer or a glass of wine can create a more relaxed and social vibe.

Tea has been associated with more formal or refined social settings, such as afternoon tea parties or business meetings. It’s also a common drink for close friends or family members to share during intimate conversations or catch-ups.

Beer, on the other hand, is often associated with casual and laid-back social gatherings, such as sporting events or parties. It’s a popular drink for friends to enjoy while hanging out and having a good time.

Wine is often considered a more sophisticated drink, associated with fine dining and formal events. Sharing a bottle of wine can create a sense of intimacy and relaxation, making it a popular choice for romantic dates or dinner parties with close friends.

Of course, these associations can vary depending on cultural and personal preferences. Ultimately, it’s the company and the context in which the drink is consumed that creates the mode of friendship.

Pouring tea for a Friend is part of the engagement. 

_____________________________________________________________

I have two friends whom I have not yet met face to face, although we

have met via Zoom once and exchanged emails only a few times. I

consider them “ TRUE FRIENDS OF OUR WORLD – MY NON -SIBI SED

OMNIBUS FRIENDS “.  I truly love, admire, and respect them.

JOSHUA FREEDMAN is a specialist on Emotional Intelligence, an

author, and CEO at SIX SECONDS, a non-profit EQ NETWORK

dedicated to teaching Emotional Intelligence around the World.

 <www.6seconds.org> <en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joshua_Freedman>

RICK HANSON, Ph.D. is a psychologist, Senior Fellow of UC Berkeley’s

Greater Good Science Center , founder of  Wellspring Institute for

Neuroscience and Contemplative Wisdom, and many times New York

Times best-selling author.  

<amazon.com/Rick-Hanson Books/s?k=Rick+Hanson&rh=n%3A283155>

Amazingly, our Friendship grows as I faithfully read their

weekly e-messages. They truly nurture me spiritually.

This week, Six Seconds wrote about “How to get more JOY from

FREUDENFREUDE.”  Definition of FREUDENFREUDE is simply “Taking

 pleasure and enjoying another person’s success.” ( Schadenfreude is

just the opposite – Taking pleasure in other’s Misery.) 

I actually experienced this unique Feeling of Joy recently when I

congratulated Will Schwalbe and Brian Wong’s on getting their books

published. Will’s “We Should Not Be Friends” and Brian’s “The Tao of

Alibaba” are truly much needed contributions to our World.

Rick Hanson introduced his CHANGE YOUR MIND – Relationship

Program- just after THE STRONG HEART. 

He presented his programs in a joyful, and mellow caring tone

and demeanor. The graphic images used especially help many of us

feel and connect with his messages. For example:

I truly Love, admire, and respect these two fellows, because I believe

that they are sincerely doing what they do to benefit the World, and

they do it so effectively.

They are TRUE FRIENDS OF OUR WORLD and MY NON SIBI SED

OMNIBUS FRIENDS.

______________________________________________________

Billy’s Thoughts

I am so grateful to have received a signed copy of this book from my FF Brother, Brian A. Wong. THE TAO OF ALIBABA elicited most optimistically how Jack Ma and his Alibaba Team achieved their stupendous success from the start – with NO TECH, NO PLAN, and NO MONEY. In praising THE TAO OF ALIBABA, Dr. Parag Khanna, International bestselling author of THE FUTURE IS ASIAN, suggested, ” This book will teach entrepreneurs how to build a global business better than any MBA course ever could.”

For me, I was especially impressed by Jack Ma’s advice to Brian, when the latter was thinking of striking out on his own to achieve meaningful contributions. Jack obviously knew Brian’s personality and capabilities very well already. His advice to Brian was succinct and specifically suited: “ Go deeply explore some poorest locations and communities.” I think Jack knew that Brian will find the True Compass, and Opportunities and Urgent Challenges are waiting there in abundance for solutions.

Helping and Caring to uplift people in need – inclusively, intelligently, and determinedly – is essentially what THE TAO Of ALIBABA is about. I also learned from this book that Teaching, Educating, and Sharing Knowledge – proudly yet humbly – are important in our efforts to serve the World together. We know that Jack Ma is a superb LEADER-Teacher. Brian has similar Capabilities and Compassion. THE TAO OF ALIBABA unquestionably is a very helpful Global Teaching Tool. Thank you, Brian, for sharing your unique personal experience with all of us. You are a dear personal friend, and you are a true “Friend of Our World”.

__________________________________________________________

  

Billy Lee  December 2022

My good friend, James G Luce, thinks a mile a minute. I usually can’t keep up with him. But he is kind and often slowed down a bit and patiently explained what I was still puzzled about.

I thanked him for WALKING MY PACE WITH ME.

He replied,” WE ARE ALL  WALKING DOWN THE ROAD TOGETHER. The conversation is enlightening at all times.”

I inquired if there is a song already with that name, and if not will he compose one for our <https://FRIENDSHIPOLOGY.net>

James first mentioned that “ON THE ROAD AGAIN” written by Bob Dylan and sung by Willie Nelson was worth remembering. He dashed out the following composition the following day:

Walking Down the Road Together

By j. luce

Inspired by Billy Lee

(Sung to the tune of Roundup Lullaby, my favorite childhood song)

(links to the history, the score, and the melody )

http://pnwfolklore.org/wp-nwhoot/index.php/2018/09/24/a-cowboy-poet-and-a-song-odyssey-by-stewart-hendrickson/

http://folksongcollector.com/desert.html

Walk’n down the road of life all by yourself

Ain’t my kinda way to get around.

What’cha need is folks who sorta dream like you

Who help ya let your troubles settle down.

Slow down, so love don’t fly away

There’s time enough for talk’n, just forget about that squawk’n

Yes folks, we all can get along,

it must be true ‘cause it works for me and you

Yes folks, we all can get along,

it must be true ‘cause it works for me and you

Nothin’ miss’n in your life but more good friends.

Nothin’ that you need is in a store.

What the world is miss’n is within your heart,

Share’n what you got’s a real good start.

Yes folks, we all can get along,

So get walk’n down that road with your companions.

OBT

____________________________________________________________

Billy’s Comments: Luce and I got acquainted when we both joined The 1990 Institute thirty-two years ago.

He has always been kind by WALKING MY PACE WITH ME.

____________________________________________________________

by Dorothie & Marty Hellman

DOROTHIE: My not feeling heard was at the root of many of the arguments that Marty and I used to have. And, as I look back, I suspect that much of his anger and frustration was also at not feeling heard, though he tended not to use those words.

MARTY: I was so out of touch with my feelings earlier in our relationship that I can’t imagine having said, “I don’t feel heard.” I would have put it in some more “logical” framework like, “You’re wrong!”

DOROTHIE: One day, after making a lot of progress, but still far from where we are today, we got into an argument over something so “important” that neither of us can remember what it was about. What both of us vividly remember, and what was really important, was the surprising way in which we moved past the previously insurmountable barrier of my not feeling heard.

MARTY: As the argument progressed, Dorothie told me what I’d heard a million times before: “You’re not listening!” So I told her what I’d also said a million times before: that she was wrong, and that I had heard every word she’d said.

We went through a few more iterations of her exclaiming, “You’re not listening!” followed by my loudly asserting, “Yes, I am! My ears are open. What do you want me to hear? Just say it.”

In the past, each such iteration would have made both of us more frustrated and angry. But we had made enough progress at this point that, while Dorothie was determined to be heard, she did not get mad at me. She dug her heels in but did not attack me.

DOROTHIE: Operating at that more mature level allowed Marty to do something that created a crack in the old dam of resentment. He asked me how I knew that he wasn’t listening. I told him that, if he were listening, he’d be behaving differently.

MARTY: At first, Dorothie’s reply didn’t seem to help, since I had no idea what I could do differently. Exasperated, I told her, “I’m doing everything I can humanly think of to hear you, but there must be something else I could do, since you’re still not feeling heard. What is it?”

I didn’t really expect an answer, but to my amazement, Dorothie replied, “You just did it.”My immediate reaction was confusion and disbelief. What had I done to make her feel heard?

DOROTHIE: Initially, my response surprised me every bit as much as it did Marty. I had thought I wanted him to hear whatever I’d been saying about the source of the argument—the thing both of us have since forgotten. But what I really wanted was for him to stop denying my reality. I didn’t need him to agree with me since I, too, can be wrong. But I needed him to be open to what I was saying and feeling. I needed him to have compassion for my point of view. I needed him to “get curious, not furious.”

MARTY: After a moment of disbelief that such a small shift could have cracked this seemingly uncrackable nut, I realized the genius of what Dorothie had just said. As long as I told her that she was wrong about not feeling heard, I might be hearing the words coming from her mouth, but I was not listening to the deeper message coming from her soul. I really was not listening.

DOROTHIE: What you just said highlights another important point in the resolution of this argument. I had said, “You’re not listening,” but what I really meant was, “I don’t feel heard.” In a way, you were right. You were listening to my words. But as you just pointed out, you were deaf to the deeper message coming from my soul. Thanks for translating for me

Dorothie Hellman :

Celebrate what presents itself.

Accept what you can’t celebrate.

____________________________________________________

Billy’s Comments:

The above was taken from Dorothie and Martin Hellman’s book “ A New Map For Relationships.” Creating True Love & Peace On The Planet.   You can download a free PDF or buy a hard copy at Amazon.

I had the honor of meeting this amazing couple at their talk at USCPFA-S.Bay a few years ago. It was most inspiring to find two individuals from very different cultural backgrounds willing to share their very private dilemmas with the rest of us. I learned from them that arguments do not solve problems. Only deep listening and understanding of the other person‘s heart and feelings may help build Love & Peace on Earth.

 PRAISE FOR A NEW MAP FOR RELATIONSHIPS

 “… a truly unique book that tells an engaging and persuasive story relating domestic peace to world peace. This book should be read by married couples seeking peace at home, as well as by diplomats seeking peace in the world.” —William J. Perry, Secretary of Defense 1994–1997

_______________________________________________________

Billy selected from <google.com> August, 2022

 

Examples of Words of Affirmation

“Everything is better when you’re here.”

“I appreciate it when you are helping us. “

“We couldn’t do this without you.”

“I’m so lucky to be with you.”

“I’m so thankful to have you in this life.”

“That’s truly impressive.”  “It’s so true !”

“Thank you for your good suggestions on X, Y, and Z.”

______________________________________________

Billy inspired by Charlotte Hiltons Andersen’s “ 60 Acts of Kindness for Kids to do to Make The World A Better Place “ –  August, 2022

For Family:

Send a get-well card.

Text a funny meme.

Give a well-deserved compliment.

Do a chore for a dear sibling.

FaceTime a grandparent.

Give a hug to Mom, Dad, or a Cousin.

Read a book to a sibling.

Offer to be “Mother’s helper”.

Offer to walk the family Dog .

Organize the plastic containers.

Help prepare dinner, set the table, or wash the dishes.

Share a picture to express gratitude for something beautiful.

For Friends:

Write to a pen pal.

Make a friendship bracelet.

Leave five kind comments on social media.

Make a friend laugh.

Share toys and books.

Pick a dandelion for a friend.

Help with homework.

Pay for a friend when appropriate.

Give a friend a high five.

Write a friendship poem.

Help a friend with a project.

For a Neighbor:

Make cookies for a neighbor

Help bring neighbor’s newspapers or package up to their porch

Help shovel the sidewalk, or rake leaves

Take dinner to an elderly neighbor

Be polite, respectful, and cheerful with a happy smile.

For Teacher and Classmates:

Help pick up trash, stack chairs, put away supplies or whatever the teacher needs.

Eat lunch with someone who seems lonely.

Invite others to play together.

Donate extra sports-equipment to school as others may need them.

Tell someone they did a great job.

Talk to the new kid.

Volunteer to help hand out assignments. Save the teacher some work and time.

For the Community:

Help decorate lunch bags for community kitchens.

Put grocery carts back from parking lots.

Donate old books to local library, community center, church, or school.

Make cards or drawing for a retirement home.

Give thank-you cards to service workers who help you on a regular basis.

Make special kits for homeless people.

Donate toys to a children’s hospital.

Write letters to soldiers who serve our country selflessly.

For the World ( added by Billy ):

Be friend people with different cultures and backgrounds,

Promote and cultivate GOODNESS in each of us.

For Our Planet:

Ride a bike instead of driving.

Plant wildflowers.

Conserve water and energy use. ( added by Billy )

Pick up litter at a local park.  Pick up litter and put in trash bin whenever possible.

Collect recycling and take it to a drop-off center.

Learn more from each other about our eco system. ( added by Billy )

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