PROMOTE FRIENDSHIP – TAP THE POWER OF COMPASSION- IN THOUGHTS & IN DEEDS

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.

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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.

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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.

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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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MEANINGFUL FRIENDSHIPS VIA ASIAN TEA CULTURES

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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HOW A DEAR FRIEND IMPROVED MY CHINESE POEM – by Billy Lee

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

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Friendship and Compassion

STEPHEN LEE CONTINUES TO EXPLORE DIFFERENT CHARTS –

From: “Mindfulness Turns A Brain from Antagony to Compassion” to “Self-assessment For Personal Growth in Good Citizenship”, to adding “Four Levels of Friendship” to the above.   May 2023

It occurred to me after creating the two-dimensional and four-quadrant chart in my last posting on How to Turn Fear to Compassion, that there is an interpretation for the number inside each small box of the chart.

An obvious interpretation is a score of Fear vs Compassion, ranging from -8 to +8.

Let’s explore the following definition:

Good Citizenship = Unselfishness + Understanding of the Needs of Others

Poor Citizenship = Selfishness + Suspicion of the Intention of Others

Then we can interpret the numbers in each small block of the chart as a Score of Good or Poor Citizenship. In this perspective, the words in the lower left quadrant should be revised to describe poor citizenship. The new chart is as follows.

A score of zero may be described as an Indifferent citizen. A score of 1 – 2 may be described as a citizen with Pity for others. A score of 3 – 4 as one with Sympathy, 5 – 6 as one with Empathy, and 7 – 8 as one with Compassion.

On the score of Poor Citizenship, the adjectives to describe the different levels may be Passive, Cautious, Resentful, and Antagonistic?

Citizenship Score (-8 to +8)

If a social score (from -8 to +8) is self-awarded to a person after a mindful act self-assessed with a Citizenship Score, it would be informative to self-ask how he or she would rate his or her level of Selfishness to Unselfishness, from -4 to +4. This is of course a subjective and qualitative self evaluation, but over time, the self assessment will still provide a valuable indicator of self improvement.

Then the two numbers, the social score and the self rating of Unselfishness, would be two useful statistics. They can be also visualized as statistical distributions or a statistical mean value of the person doing the self assessment or for a group of people if the data are collected for people in different groups, socially or culturally. If both the social score and the self-assessed Unselfish index for a population are plotted as a statistical distribution on top of the chart, as shown in the following chart, for two different years, the improvement would be noticeable.

This approach would also be used for comparing different groups of people over the same year of study, for example, to see if culture makes a difference.

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A NEW CHART EXTENDING COMPASSION INTO FOUR LEVELS OF FRIENDSHIP.

Acquaintance

Friends

Close Friends, and

Bonded Friends   ( This last one is akin to the Chinese male bonding of Yi Qi )

CONTINUING THEIR COLLECTIVE FUN & CREATIVE EXPLORATIONS – STEPHEN LEE CAME UP WITH SOME AMAZING GRAPHICS

April 2023 Stephen Lee sent to Billy and James:

Billy to Stephen, and James:

Just realized that the ARROWS Stephen introduced in the charts are truly essential to our research Why they move in a certain direction to start with ?  What triggers ? What encourages ? Why slow down, stop, or turn around.?  Even turn around again ?  How can that be facilitated etc. etc. etc. ?

Stephen to Billy and James:

The attached picture is my answer to Bill today about the different steps to change my own behavior from antagonistic to compassionate. I suppose there are other ways to get there

James Luce to Stephen and Billy:

Not sure that Antagonistic is the correct word in this context.

Billy to Stephen:

Your Graphic is Fabulous. You are basically a Good Person with A Good Conscience, Stephen. Some people lack a Good Conscience. Yes,how can we build Good Conscience ?

May I suggest that you illuminate more about the ARROWs you showed in your earlier chart ?  Each directive arrow may represent first One’s Conscience, then Mindfulness, Reflection, and Commitment – all your words ?

Come up again with some amazing Stephen Lee graphics !

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Different drinks like Tea, Beer, Or Wine create different Modes of Friendship? Billy’s question answered by Chat-CPT – Photos from Google

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.

Happy group of Latin American friends toasting with beer.

Pouring tea for a Friend is part of the engagement. 

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Deepening Friendship and Bonding, Pursuing FUN & CREATIVE Ideas Together. Compassion vs Fear

Three Friends: Bill or Billy ( an Architect ), James ( a lawyer ), and Stephen ( an Electrical Engineer ), were having fun lately – playing psychologists and seeking Truth and Meaning about COMPASSION.

Below is a report by Stephen which illustrates their recent collective FUN & CREATIVE Pursuit.

Mindfulness Turns Fear to Compassion

The following four Charts were built on ideas and works of three friends. More immediately, some of the ideas came from my friends Bill Lee and James Luce, and I simply internalized them with my personal philosophy to combine the two charts into one. This figure shows the two original charts. The upper right one came from Bill’s readings on Compassion. The lower left chart was created by James at the request of Bill.

I recognized that both charts have two axes and that if the value of the horizontal axis of one chart is rephrased to be the opposite of the value of the other horizontal axis, then both charts become connected. The same reasoning suggests that the two vertical axes can also be rephrased so that the two charts can be interpreted as a single chart. This thought results in the following chart. The horizontal axis ranges from High Feeling of Threat to You, to Low Feeling of Threat to You, and then crosses over the vertical axis to Low Feeling of Needs from You, and then to High Feeling of Needs from You.

The vertical axis ranges from High degree of Selfishness from the bottom of the chart to High degree of Unselfishness at the top of the chart. Then a color scale is painted on each little square of the chart to start from Red to represent an extreme feeling of threat and selfishness which causes the primitive reptilian brain in humans to attack out of fear and survival instinct. The color changes towards the Green color representing compassion at the upper right corner of the chart.

Then the second chart was created by adding three application cases to illustrate how Mindfulness can help a person to modify the reflex instinct of fear and survival towards the humanistic behavior is controllable by the more evolved human brain which can make reasoned decisions according to our personal values which take into account our tradeoffs between the self and others, as well as our often-flawed instinctive awareness of the intention of the other person.

The final chart adds a fourth case to the examples. It was an actual experience yesterday while traveling in an airplane.

April 12, 2023

Stephen Lee

Reflection

Compassion, Fear, Mindfulness

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“Are there Parallels Between The Art of Cooking And The Art of Building Friendship?” Chat GPT Replied to Billy’s Question:

Here’s what Chat GPT spit out – March 22, 2023

Yes, there are parallels between the art of cooking and the art of building friendships. Both require a certain level of creativity, patience, and practice to succeed. Here are some examples:

  1. Creativity: Just as chefs use their creativity to create unique and delicious dishes, friends can use their creativity to find new and interesting ways to spend time together, such as trying out new activities or exploring new places.
  2. Patience: Cooking and building friendships both require patience. Just as a chef must wait for a dish to cook to perfection, friends must be patient and invest time and effort to build and nurture their relationships.
  3. Practice: Both cooking and building friendships require practice to improve and refine one’s skills. Just as a chef must practice their cooking techniques and recipes to perfect their craft, friends must practice their communication and social skills to build strong relationships.
  4. Balance: In cooking, the right balance of ingredients is crucial to create a harmonious dish. Similarly, in building friendships, the right balance of effort and time is essential to maintain a healthy and balanced relationship.
  5. Communication: Communication is vital in both cooking and building friendships. Chefs must communicate with their team to create the perfect dish, while friends must communicate their thoughts and feelings to build trust and understanding.
  6. Trust: Just as diners trust chefs to create delicious and safe food, friends need to trust each other to be honest, supportive, and reliable.

In conclusion, the art of cooking and the art of building friendships share many similarities. Both require creativity, patience, practice, balance, communication, and trust to succeed. By nurturing these qualities, we can create delicious meals, strong relationships, and lasting friendships.

 Billy’s Comments: My next question may be: ,”How to make a Friendship Stew?” ___________________________________________________

Food makes Friends (according to Chat GPT)

By Mike Sterling – March  19, 2023

I asked Chat GPT how sharing a meal can help make better friends … 

I couldn’t have said it better..

Sharing a meal can help make people better friends in several ways:

  1. Builds trust and openness: When you share a meal with someone, you’re sharing an experience that requires trust and vulnerability. It’s an opportunity to open up to one another, share stories, and be present with each other. This can create a stronger bond and foster a deeper level of trust between people.                              
  2. Creates a sense of community: Food has the power to bring people together and create a sense of belonging. When you share a meal with someone, you’re creating a shared experience and a sense of community. This can help foster a sense of belonging and connectedness between people, which can lead to deeper and more meaningful friendships.
  3. Sparks conversation: Food can be a great conversation starter. Whether you’re discussing the flavors of the dish, the ingredients used, or the cultural significance of the food, there’s always something to talk about. This can help break down barriers and create a more open and engaging conversation between people, leading to stronger friendships.
  4. Offers opportunities to show care and affection: When you cook for someone or share a meal with them, it’s a way of showing care and affection. It’s a tangible way of expressing your appreciation for someone and can help build a stronger emotional connection between people.

Overall, sharing a meal can create a space for people to connect on a deeper level, build trust and openness, create a sense of community, spark conversation, and show care and affection. All of these factors can help make people better friends and strengthen the bonds of friendship.

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Billy’s Comments:

It helps when the food is delicious, the setting is good, and there is no rush.

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“ TRUE FRIENDS OF OUR WORLD – NON-SIBI SED OMNIBUS FRIENDS “ By Billy Lee – March 2023“

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:

Something that bothers you about another persons ?
Something that blocks your future self-expression ?
Something that you want to be more motivated for ?

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.

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