GEW

Copilot und Grabenkampf

Fontane

Seit 1975 bis heute haben die Grabenkämpfe zwischen der Gewerkschaft Erziehung und Wissenschaft (GEW) und dem Philologenverband die Diskussionen um die Arbeitsbedingungen und Besoldung von Lehrkräften an Gymnasien in Deutschland geprägt. Die GEW setzt sich traditionell für eine Angleichung der Gehälter aller Lehrkräfte ein, während der Philologenverband die spezifischen Herausforderungen und Anforderungen des Gymnasiallehramts betont.

Ein zentraler Streitpunkt ist die Kampagne „A13 für alle“, die von der GEW und anderen Verbänden unterstützt wird. Diese fordert eine einheitliche Besoldung für alle Lehrkräfte, unabhängig von der Schulform. Der Philologenverband hingegen argumentiert, dass Gymnasiallehrkräfte aufgrund ihrer höheren fachlichen Anforderungen und Arbeitsbelastung eine höhere Besoldung verdienen und fordert stattdessen „A14 für Gymnasiallehrer“ A B.

Die Debatte spiegelt die unterschiedlichen Perspektiven wider: Während die GEW Solidarität und Gleichwertigkeit aller Lehrkräfte betont, sieht der Philologenverband die Gefahr einer Abwertung der spezifischen Leistungen von Gymnasiallehrkräften C. Trotz der Differenzen bleibt die Frage nach fairen Arbeitsbedingungen und angemessener Wertschätzung für alle Lehrkräfte zentral.

Was denken Sie über diese Diskussion? Sollte es eine einheitliche Besoldung geben oder eine differenzierte Anerkennung der Leistungen?

Diese Frage stellt Copilot mir heute.

Hmmm …. Das ist ein weites Feld (Fontane).

Schnee von gestern?

Als StD im Ruhestand (seit 2015) bin ich gedanklich gelegentlich in meiner Vergangenheit, was ja nicht ungewoehnlich ist.

Da ich seitdem an der Gold Cost in Queensland in Australien wohne, obwohl meine liebe Familie und meine besten Freunde in Deutschland wohnen, konzentriere ich mich in der Regel auf das Hier und Heute. Weniger auf die Zukunft.

Ein Leben als Lehrkraft mit Passion erfordert meist 100% in den Bereichen Mut, Ausdauer, Motivation.

Lehrkraft kommt von Kraft. Und dem Verbum lehren!

Kraft ist immer auch Physik.

Lehren kann man auch ohne jede Ahnung von Physik.

Oder Mathematik, wie Schroeder gern unterstrich!

Was ist ausgebrannt?

Batterien sind alle?

Fix und Foxi?

Sozusagen Volldampf.

Andere sagen schlicht immer auf der Ueberholspur.

Da bleibt nicht aus sich zu fragen: Was habe ich im Rueckspiegel betrachtet richtig genacht, was war voll daneben.

Wie oben gesagt, ein weites Feld …

Mehr dazu hier later Alligator.

Author & Blogger Peter H Bloecker (Retired).

Screenshot | #phb | Freedom and Merkel Angie (Mick Jagger)

In Deutschland mit Bus und DB und Pushbike und als Aussie unterwegs spiele ich ggf den Auslaender.

EBook ist gedanklich im Hinterkopf.

Wieso sprechen Sie so gut Deutsch?

#Why?

#Culture

#Semiotik

#Coding

#HTML

#Shakespeare

#Goethe

Warum brauchen Adler keine Treppen?

#Tafelbild

Linked

Screenshot by #phb

Interested?

Pls come back sooner or later, Alligator …

Der Autor und aktive Blogger lebt im Ruhestand in Australien.

Thema Kapitel #12

#Gesundheit

#Psychiatrie

#Lehramt

#Salinger

Literacy

Medienkompetenz und Literacy

Bundeszentrale Politische Bildung

Written by Peter H Bloecker (Retired Director Of Studies)

Linked

#1

Teaching today faces several challenges and limitations, which can impact both educators and learners. Here are some key constraints:

  1. Standardized Curricula: Teachers often have to adhere to rigid curricula, leaving little room for flexibility or creativity in addressing individual student needs. Key term is time pressure.
  2. Resource Constraints: Limited access to funding, technology, and teaching materials can hinder innovative teaching methods, especially in underserved areas like country schools.
  3. Classroom Size: Overcrowded classrooms can reduce individual attention for students, affecting their learning outcomes. In some classrooms 30 or even more students learn with one teacher, and the lessons are 45 minutes minus organization time.
  4. Assessment Pressure: The focus on standardized testing can sometimes prioritize rote learning over critical thinking, creativity, and holistic development.
  5. Digital Divide: While technology has advanced, not all students have equal access to digital tools, creating disparities in learning opportunities. Many older teachers have little digital skills or no time to learn new skills.
  6. Changing Skill Demands: Rapid changes in the job market and society mean that education systems sometimes struggle to adapt quickly enough to teach relevant, future-ready skills. Sometimes no changes are visible in some schools over 10 or more years.
  7. Emotional and Social Challenges: Teachers are expected to address diverse emotional, social, and behavioral issues, which can stretch their roles beyond academics. There are inclusion problems as well.
  8. Teacher Burnout: High workloads, administrative duties, and limited professional support can lead to stress and burnout among educators. Some young teachers leave the school system and start a new career outside schools.
  9. Cultural and Systemic Barriers: In some places, cultural expectations or outdated systems may limit the incorporation of modern or progressive teaching methods.

Despite these challenges, many teachers continue to adapt and innovate, often going above and beyond to inspire and educate.

However, not every person becoming a teacher has the necessary teaching skills from the start: It might take years to become a Master of Teaching (Schulmeister).

Linked

The Bundeszentrale für politische Bildung (bpb) offers a wide range of educational resources to promote civic education and political awareness. Here are some highlights:

  1. Open Educational Resources (OER): Free teaching and learning materials that can be customized and reused. These include lesson plans, multimedia content, and interactive tools A.
  2. Publications: Books, brochures, and magazines on political, historical, and social topics. These are often available for free or at a low cost B.
  3. Online Content: Articles, videos, and podcasts covering current events, historical analysis, and political debates C.
  4. Workshops and Events: Opportunities for educators, students, and the general public to engage in discussions, debates, and training sessions B.
  5. Youth Programs: Special initiatives and resources tailored for young people to encourage their participation in democracy and civic life C.

These resources are designed to be accessible and engaging for a wide audience.

Pls check this website out for yourself.

#2

What is meaning making?

Meaning making refers to the process through which individuals interpret and give significance to their experiences, events, or information. It is how we create coherence and understanding from what happens in our lives, shaping our perspectives, beliefs, and identities.

At its core, meaning making involves:

  1. Reflection: Examining events or information to understand their relevance.
  2. Connection: Relating new experiences to existing knowledge or past experiences.
  3. Narrative Creation: Constructing personal or shared stories to frame experiences in a comprehensible way.
  4. Cultural and Social Context: Influences from community, culture, and society play a significant role in shaping meaning.

This process is crucial for learning, personal growth, and navigating complex life situations. In essence, it helps individuals find purpose and adapt to challenges.

Decoding and understanding

The ability to decode signals, icons, pictures, and other visual representations is a crucial skill in today’s world, often referred to as visual literacy. It involves interpreting and making sense of visual information to understand messages, ideas, or data. Here’s why this skill is essential:

  1. Interpreting Symbols: From traffic signs to app icons, recognizing and understanding visual symbols is key to navigating daily life.
  2. Analyzing Visual Data: Charts, graphs, and infographics are frequently used to present information in a concise way. Being able to decode these helps in understanding trends and data effectively.
  3. Media and Advertising: Visual elements in advertisements or social media posts often carry powerful messages. Decoding them involves understanding context, color use, and cultural references.
  4. Global Communication: Visual symbols are often universal, breaking language barriers and enabling communication across cultures.
  5. Critical Thinking: Decoding visuals goes beyond understanding; it involves questioning intent, identifying biases, and considering how visuals influence perception.

Practicing this skill equips individuals to navigate a visually rich, information-heavy world with confidence.

#3

Viewing comprehension and Art Work

The reception of films, fine art, and artworks is deeply influenced by cultural, personal, and societal factors. Here’s how audiences engage with and interpret these mediums:

Reception of Film

  1. Emotional Response: Movies often evoke strong emotions—whether joy, sadness, fear, or nostalgia—connecting viewers to the narrative and characters.
  2. Cultural Influence: Films reflect and challenge cultural norms, allowing viewers to explore social issues and different perspectives.
  3. Symbolism and Themes: Decoding symbolism, metaphors, and recurring themes helps audiences appreciate deeper layers of storytelling.
  4. Production Elements: Audiences often critique cinematography, acting, music, and direction to evaluate the film’s overall impact.

Reception of Fine Art

  1. Interpretation: Fine art invites viewers to interpret and find personal meaning based on their own experiences and emotions.
  2. Aesthetic Appreciation: Viewers admire the technical skill, style, and beauty of the artwork, focusing on elements like color, composition, and texture.
  3. Historical Context: The significance of fine art often depends on understanding the cultural, historical, or political background in which it was created.

Reception of General Artwork

  1. Narrative Exploration: Artworks often tell stories or represent concepts, and audiences engage by piecing together the narrative.
  2. Interactive Engagement: Installations, digital art, and modern forms often encourage viewers to physically or mentally interact with the artwork.
  3. Influence of Mediums: The choice of medium—sculpture, painting, or mixed media—affects how viewers perceive and relate to the artwork.

Reception ultimately varies based on the viewer’s background, personal taste, and level of engagement with the medium.

#4

Reception of Literature and understanding texts like poems and narrations and more

Definition of Reception

In literary studies, “reception” refers to the process by which a text is received, interpreted, and understood by its audience. This encompasses the initial reactions of readers and critics upon encountering a work, as well as the ongoing interpretations and evaluations that evolve over time. Reception can be influenced by various factors, including cultural context, historical circumstances, individual reader experiences, and prevailing literary trends. It is a dynamic interaction between the text and its audience, where meaning is not solely determined by the author but is co-created through the reader’s engagement with the work.

Implications of Reception

  1. Cultural Context: The reception of a text can reveal much about the cultural and societal values of the time in which it is read. For example, a novel that was controversial in its time may be celebrated in a different era for its progressive themes. This highlights how cultural shifts can alter the perception and significance of literary works.
  2. Reader Agency: Reception underscores the active role of readers in constructing meaning. Different readers may interpret the same text in vastly different ways based on their backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. This variability emphasizes the subjective nature of literary interpretation and the importance of diverse voices in literary discourse.
  3. Critical Discourse: The reception of a text often generates critical discourse that can influence future readings and interpretations. Reviews, academic analyses, and public discussions contribute to a text’s reputation and can shape its place in the literary canon. This ongoing dialogue can also lead to re-evaluations of previously marginalized works or authors.
  4. Interdisciplinary Insights: Understanding reception encourages interdisciplinary approaches to literature, integrating insights from fields such as sociology, psychology, and cultural studies. This broadens the scope of literary analysis and allows for a more comprehensive understanding of how texts interact with various aspects of human experience.
  5. Temporal Dynamics: Reception is not static; it evolves over time. A text may be received differently across generations, reflecting changing societal norms, values, and literary tastes. This temporal aspect highlights the fluidity of meaning and the importance of historical context in literary studies.

In summary, reception is a multifaceted concept that encompasses the ways in which texts are interpreted and understood by audiences. Its implications extend beyond individual readings, influencing cultural discourse, critical analysis, and the ongoing evolution of literary meaning.

Title: Reception and Understanding of Texts: A Multifaceted Approach

Introduction

The reception and understanding of literary texts—encompassing novels, stories, poems, and drama—are complex processes influenced by various factors, including historical context, reader interpretation, and textual analysis. This essay explores the dynamics of how texts are received and understood, highlighting the interplay between authorial intent, reader response, and the socio-cultural environment.

Historical and Cultural Context

The historical and cultural context in which a text is produced and received plays a crucial role in shaping its interpretation. Literary works often reflect the values, beliefs, and social issues of their time, which can significantly influence how they are understood. For instance, the feminist readings of 19th-century novels, such as Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre, reveal how contemporary societal norms regarding gender roles inform modern interpretations (Showalter, 1985). Understanding the context allows readers to appreciate the nuances of a text and its relevance to both its time and the present.

Reader Response Theory

Reader Response Theory posits that the meaning of a text is not fixed but is created through the interaction between the reader and the text. This approach emphasizes the active role of the reader in constructing meaning, suggesting that individual experiences, emotions, and cultural backgrounds shape one’s understanding of a literary work (Iser, 1978). For example, a poem like Langston Hughes’s The Negro Speaks of Rivers may resonate differently with readers based on their personal histories and cultural identities, leading to diverse interpretations that enrich the text’s significance.

Textual Analysis and Close Reading

While context and reader response are vital, textual analysis remains a fundamental method for understanding literature. Close reading involves a detailed examination of the language, structure, and literary devices employed by the author. This method allows readers to uncover deeper meanings and thematic elements within a text. For instance, analyzing the use of symbolism in Shakespeare’s Macbeth reveals the intricate connections between ambition, guilt, and fate, enhancing the reader’s comprehension of the play’s moral complexities (Bloom, 1998).

Interdisciplinary Approaches

The reception of texts can also benefit from interdisciplinary approaches that incorporate insights from psychology, sociology, and cultural studies. For example, applying psychological theories to character motivations in novels can provide a richer understanding of their actions and conflicts. Similarly, sociological perspectives can illuminate how class, race, and gender dynamics influence both the creation and reception of literary works (Bourdieu, 1993). Such interdisciplinary methods foster a more holistic understanding of texts, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of literature.

Conclusion

The reception and understanding of literary texts are inherently complex processes shaped by historical context, reader engagement, textual analysis, and interdisciplinary insights. By recognizing the interplay between these factors, readers can cultivate a deeper appreciation for literature and its capacity to reflect and challenge societal norms. Ultimately, the richness of literary texts lies not only in their content but also in the diverse interpretations they inspire across different contexts and audiences.

References

Bloom, H. (1998). Shakespeare: The Invention of the Human. Riverhead Books.

Bourdieu, P. (1993). The Field of Cultural Production: Essays on Art and Literature. Columbia University Press.

Iser, W. (1978). The Act of Reading: A Theory of Aesthetic Response. Johns Hopkins University Press.

Showalter, E. (1985). The Female Imagination: A Literary and Cultural History. Harper & Row.

New on Zeitgeister Goethe – Institut

Thomas Mann

Linked

Longevity

Written by Grok 3

The Blue Zones concept refers to regions of the world where people live significantly longer and healthier lives, often reaching age 100 at higher rates than the global average. The five identified Blue Zones are Okinawa (Japan), Sardinia (Italy), Nicoya (Costa Rica), Ikaria (Greece), and Loma Linda (California, USA). Key lifestyle factors contributing to longevity in these areas include:

  1. Diet: Predominantly plant-based diets rich in vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and healthy fats, with limited processed foods and sugars.
  2. Physical Activity: Regular, moderate physical activity integrated into daily life, rather than structured exercise routines.
  3. Social Connections: Strong community ties and supportive social networks that promote emotional well-being and reduce stress.
  4. Purpose: A sense of purpose or meaning in life, which is linked to better mental and physical health.
  5. Stress Management: Practices that promote relaxation and stress reduction, such as meditation, napping, or spending time in nature.

Implications for Individuals Aged 60 and Over:

  1. Health Promotion: Adopting a plant-based diet and engaging in regular physical activity can significantly improve health outcomes and quality of life for older adults.
  2. Social Engagement: Encouraging social interactions and community involvement can combat loneliness and enhance mental health.
  3. Mental Well-being: Fostering a sense of purpose can lead to improved cognitive function and emotional resilience.
  4. Preventive Health: Emphasizing lifestyle changes inspired by Blue Zones can help prevent age-related diseases, reducing healthcare costs and improving longevity.
  5. Holistic Approach: A comprehensive approach that includes diet, exercise, social connections, and mental health can lead to a more fulfilling and longer life.

In short, the Blue Zones concept offers valuable insights for individuals aged 60 and over, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle choices in promoting longevity and enhancing overall well-being.

Series on Netflix! Really interesting insights!

Education

Describe a phase in life that was difficult to say goodbye to.

Once a teacher, always a teacher …

The problem obviously is, you cannot stop curiosity!

But you can stop educating or even teach people.

Some people love teachers, but most people hate teachers!

Why?

The Mother of all questions …

Why do you ask?

Wisdom | Credit phb

Alfie

Credit phb

In a dense forest where the sun’s rays played hide-and-seek with the trees, lived a curious young squirrel named Alfie. Alfie loved to explore and ask questions about everything he noticed.

 

One day, Alfie found a strange, flat rock covered in odd shapes. The shapes looked like wiggly lines, circles, and other strange marks. He had seen these before on the signs the humans left in the forest, but he never knew what they meant.

 

Alfie decided to ask his friend, Bella Block the wise old owl, who lived in the ancient oak tree. Retired, but not tired. Bella was known to have answers to the most puzzling questions young squirrels might ask.

 

“Hello, Bella,” Alfie chirped as he scampered up the tree. “I found this rock with funny marks on it. Do you know what they are?”

 

Bella turned her head slowly and peered at the rock with her large, knowing eyes. “Ah, Alfie, those are letters and numbers. Humans use them to communicate and count things. They are part of something called the alphabet and numbers.”

 

Alfie tilted his head. “Alphabet? Numbers? What do they do?”

 

Bella hooted softly. “The alphabet is a set of letters from A to Z. They form words that humans use to speak to each other. And numbers, like from 0 to 100, help them count things and understand amounts.”

 

Alfie thought for a moment. “Can you tell me more about them?”

 

“Of course,” Bella replied. “A is for apple, like the ones you like to nibble on. B is for butterfly, the beautiful insects that flutter by. And C is for cat, the mysterious creature that sometimes visits our forest. Just like that, each letter stands for something.”

 

“And what about numbers?” Alfie asked, his eyes wide with curiosity.

 

“Numbers help us count. For instance, there is only 1 sun in the sky, 2 wingsare  on a butterfly, and you have 4 tiny cute paws,” Bella explained. “Humans use numbers to measure and understand the world around them.”

 

Alfie was fascinated. “So, if I wanted to tell you how many nuts I found today, I could use numbers?”

 

“Exactly,” Bella said with a slight nod. “If you found 10 nuts, you would use the number 10 to tell me that.”

 

Alfie looked at the rock again, imagining all the stories and ideas the humans could share with their letters and numbers. He felt a sense of wonder at the vast world of knowledge waiting to be discovered.

So good to have a wise friend, he said.

The owl nodded again. And she smiled.

You made my day, love!

 

With a heart full of curiosity, Alfie scampered down the tree, eager to explore and learn more. And as he ventured deeper into the forest, he carried with him the wisdom of Bella, ready to unlock the mysteries of the alphabet and numbers in his own special way.

Eagles

 

High above the rugged peaks and ancient forests, the eagle soars with effortless grace. The other animals of the wilderness often marveled at its majesty, wondering how it could ascend to such heights with such ease.

One day, a curious young fox approached the wise old owl, who perched solemnly on a branch.

“Owl,” the fox began, “how is it that the eagle can rise so high without the need for stairs or pathways?”

The owl, with a twinkle in its eye, replied, “The eagle, my dear fox, has learned the secret of trusting the wind. It spreads its wings wide and lets the currents carry it upward. It does not seek the ground for steps or the path for guidance, for it knows that the air it trusts will take it to where it belongs.”

The fox pondered this for a moment, then looked up to the sky where the eagle soared, understanding that true freedom comes from trusting the invisible forces that lift us beyond our limitations.

And so, the animals of the wilderness learned that sometimes, it is not the steps we take or the paths we follow that matter most, but the wings we dare to spread and the winds we learn to trust.

Credit phb
Copied from Ozwords.com.au Author Kel
Screenshot #phb with Copilot

OZWORD OF THE DAY: “Indexes”

There it was on the front page of The Australian newspaper—in a commentary piece by Simon Benson—the word ‘indexes’ used as the plural form of ‘index.’ 

He was writing about the official Living Standards Index published by the ABS (the Australian Bureau of Statistics). Apparently this LCI report contains ‘five indexes’ measuring how much the cost of living goes up or down for different groups of people. But are they ‘indexes’? Or should the plural of ‘index’ be ‘indices’? 

The Grammarist website addresses this question and gives this answer: ‘Both “indexes” and “indices” are correct English plurals of the singular noun “index.” But there is a preference for indices outside North America because of solid adherence to Latin plurals.’ 

But (it turns out) it is much more complicated than that. 

Let’s start with the meaning ‘index’—this has a total of ten different meanings in the Oxford English Dictionary—with sub-divisions under some of those ten headings. The core concept at the heart of ‘index’ is ‘indicate.’ That’s why it can be used for a finger (the finger you usually use as a pointer—to indicate what you mean). The list of a book’s contents is the ‘index ‘because it indicates what’s in the book. And in mathematics it has as range of meanings, including a list of numbers that indicates… whatever. 

So, given all those meanings—should we simply decide in favour of either ‘indexes’ or ‘indices’ as the plural? 

Not so fast, says the Oxford—there can be different plurals for different contexts (or so says the big book from the dreaming spires of the ancient seat of learning). The Oxfordsuggests that in all mathematical contexts the plural should be ‘indices’ while if you are talking about the index tables at the back of books you should use ‘indexes.’ 

So, let’s compare Simon Benson’s use to that ruling. And, clearly, he has done wrong! He was writing about tables of figures covering different groups—and that use should take the plural form of ‘indices.’ 

However, I’m not prepared to stop at that point. Perhaps I might be so bold as to disagree with the Oxford on this? 

In English we normal make plurals by adding an S at the end. That explains ‘indexes.’ So, why would be choose so odd a form as ‘indices’? The Grammarist website says we do that to ‘adhere t the Latin plurals.’ And it’s true that the Latin plural is indicium. 

But this is where I object. We are speaking English, not Latin. So, if you are not wearing a toga and brandishing a short-sword I insist that you are an English speaker, not a Roman—and that, therefore, you should say ‘indexes’ in all contexts. 

I have been on a campaign to banish Latin plurals from English for some time now—and I have just added ‘indices’ to my list of banned Latin plurals. 

So, Simon Bension—you were writing perfectly good English! Well done! Keep it up. And my ruling is: ‘indices’ is out and ‘indexes’ is in. 

Let’s bang down the gavel on that ruling!

The latest edition of The Spectator Australia is in newsagents now — and it contains my “Language” column.

You may wish to contact Kel at ozwords.com.au 

Aussie Slang and more about Languages and Grammar!

Updated on Sat 15 Feb 2025 by Peter H Bloecker (Retired Director of Studies and ex German Language Adviser of Goethe Australia).

Linked

Goethe – Institut Website about Germany, its language and people plus culture (Multi Language Website de and en top right).

Linked

Leaders – My Education Blog

This site is about Leadership There are Leaders and there are Leaders Why? The Mother Of All Questions When? Where? Cui Bono? Hitler was a Leader = Der Führer! My Father was born in 1924 and called him GröFaz … This is what young soldiers said behind the Russian Front Lines in the 2nd WW…
— Read on bloecker.wordpress.com/about/

Leaders is a Caravan Brand in Australia.

Off the beaten track and 4WD

Star gazing in NSW

The Seven Sisters

Constellation | Stella | Stars and Significance

Navigating with the Seven Sisters: The Pleiades Constellation

The Pleiades, also known as the Seven Sisters, is one of the most captivating star clusters in the night sky. Nestled in the constellation Taurus, this cluster has served as both a cultural icon and a navigational aid for centuries.

A Celestial Guide for Ancient Mariners

In ancient times, the Pleiades played a crucial role in nautical navigation. The Greeks, for instance, named them after the seven daughters of Atlas and Pleione from mythology. Sailors of antiquity, including those on epic voyages like those of Odysseus, relied on the Pleiades to guide their ships. The constellation’s prominence in the night sky made it an easy reference point for determining direction and seasons.

The heliacal rising of the Pleiades—when they first become visible in the dawn sky—was particularly important. This event marked the beginning of the navigation season in the Mediterranean, signaling safe passage for trading vessels and explorers.

A Modern Mariner’s Reference

Though modern navigators have advanced technologies at their disposal, the Pleiades remain a beloved fixture in the sky. The cluster’s bright stars, especially the seven most prominent ones, are easily visible and often used by stargazers and amateur astronomers for orientation.

The Stars of the Pleiades

The Pleiades consist of over a thousand stars, but seven stand out due to their brightness:

  • Alcyone
  • Atlas
  • Electra
  • Maia
  • Merope
  • Taygeta
  • Pleione

These stars form a tight cluster that can be spotted with the naked eye, making it an ideal marker in both ancient and modern contexts.

Cultural Significance

The Seven Sisters hold a special place in many cultures around the world. For the Maori and other Polynesian cultures, the Pleiades, known as Matariki, signify the start of the new year. In various indigenous cultures, the stars are part of rich mythologies and are often associated with agricultural cycles.

Matariki

Matariki: A Beacon of Cultural Significance for Aboriginal Tribes

Matariki, also known as the Pleiades star cluster, holds deep cultural significance for many indigenous peoples, including Aboriginal tribes in Australia A. This celestial event marks the start of the new year and is a time for reflection, celebration, and connection to the land and ancestors.

Cultural Importance of Matariki

For Aboriginal tribes, Matariki is a time to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future B. The appearance of Matariki in the sky signals the beginning of a new cycle, a time to gather, share stories, and strengthen community bonds B. It is a period of renewal and hope, where the past year’s achievements and challenges are remembered and lessons are carried forward.

Connection to the Land

Matariki is also a time to reconnect with the land and its resources C. Aboriginal tribes use this period to prepare for the coming season, planting new crops and ensuring that the land is cared for C. The stars of Matariki are seen as guides, helping to predict the weather and the success of the harvest C. If the stars are clear and bright, it is believed to be a sign of a bountiful season ahead C.

Celebrations and Traditions

Matariki celebrations vary among different Aboriginal tribes, but common elements include feasting, storytelling, and ceremonies B. These gatherings are a time to pass down knowledge and traditions from one generation to the next, ensuring that the cultural heritage is preserved. The stars of Matariki are often associated with specific stories and teachings, making them an integral part of Aboriginal culture.

Modern Significance

In modern times, Matariki continues to be a significant event for Aboriginal tribes, serving as a reminder of their connection to the cosmos and their cultural heritage B. It is a time to celebrate identity, community, and the enduring bond between people and the stars.

Conclusion

Matariki is more than just a star cluster; it is a symbol of cultural resilience and continuity for Aboriginal tribes B. Its appearance in the sky each year is a reminder of the importance of community, tradition, and the natural world. As we look to the stars, we are reminded of our own insignificance and the Shortness and Limitations of our Life.

100 years are 4 generations of humans, but looking at the Seven Sisters, they seem to tell us:

„Your own 100 years are not more than one blink of your eyes. Guess the time it takes to send the light signals from our Cluster to your brain. Do you know how old we are? And do you know the distance between your eyes and our Cluster?

Anyway, when you and your generation has gone and will be long forgotten, we Seven Sisters will still be here in the sky.

Come and visit us here.“

Curious now?

More here soon by Author & Blogger

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Credit phb
On the Roads of NSW in Australia | Credit phb
Caravan Park Dubbo | Credit phb
Peter Hanns & Maria Ines

The Universe awaits

Linked

NASA Archive

Linked

NASA Archive | Pleiades | Screenshot phb

Stranded in OZ with your Caravan?

Looking for emergency assistance while traveling in Australia with your caravan?

Walkabout Caravan Services is a great resource for this A. They specialize in providing mobile caravan repairs and emergency services across Australia A.

You can contact them at 0457 304 089 or via email at info@walkaboutcs.com.au. They offer on-site B servicing and repairs, ensuring that you’re back on the road as quickly as possible A.

Seen in Dubbo NSW 30 Dec 2024

Credit phb

Member Deals of GDayParks now 40%

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Example Dubbo over the New Year 2024 Eve.

More about Hubble and Space

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More about our Xmas Trip NSW 2024 here soon …

What means Walkabout?

Its significance today

Walkabout and Orientation

The concept of Walkabout holds profound meaning within Aboriginal Australian culture. Traditionally, it refers to a rite of passage during which young Aboriginal men embarked on a journey to live in the wilderness for a period of time, immersing themselves in their ancestral lands and spiritual heritage.

In contemporary times, Walkabout has transcended its traditional roots to symbolize a broader journey of self-discovery and connection to the land. It embodies the idea of stepping away from the hustle of modern life to reconnect with nature, culture, and oneself. For many, it represents an opportunity to explore Australia’s diverse landscapes and engage with its rich indigenous heritage.

This ancient practice continues to inspire people around the world, encouraging us to find balance, understand our place in the environment, and appreciate the deep cultural stories that shape our world.

In short: Walkabout means with Hermann Hesse

Understand who you are meant to be!

Follow the path of Education & Learning about yourself via walking through your memories, enjoy the NOW and live the day accordingly and do not worry at all about the Future.

Develop your Life Skills as much as possible.

Communication is important, but not all the time.

Silence is Golden.

Music is the Language.

Matariki & a very good New Year 2025.

Peter Hanns Bloecker, Director Of Studies

Linked

Goethe Today

Website of Goethe – Institut in many languages about Culture, Languages and more from Germany like songs, music, performing arts and German Studies.

Taronga Zoo | Dubbo | Credit phb
Credit phb
White Rhino
Oryx | Credit phb
Credit phb

Last Day of the Year 2024

We do not need much to be happy exploring the Hinterland and hidden gems of NSW, here now in Dubbo.

Where the folks are fine & and the slabs are even plus divine

Country for sure: Always honest & true blue!

Musk & Cold Water | Credit phb
Our Camp Kitchen Dubbo | Credit phb
Tiny House on Wheels | Golf Outback | Credit phb
Permanent & Flower Lover | Credit phb

Music for Midnight

True Love Will Never Fade

Mark Knopfler

Happy New Year, Love of my Life | Credit phb
Taronga Zoo Dubbo | Credit phb

Reading about Outback and more …

East Of Alice

Autorin: Annie Seaton

The Early Settlers from Britain and more …

Setting is The Ruby Gap National Park.

Read my Review via GoodReads.

Ruby Gap is a remote wilderness area located near Alice Springs in the Northern Territory of Australia. It is known for its rugged beauty and unique geology, as well as its rich Indigenous history and cultural significance.

The Ruby Gap area is characterized by steep sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, and rocky outcrops. The area is home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including the red kangaroo, rock wallaby, and various bird species. The area also has several permanent waterholes, which are important for wildlife and for the Indigenous people who have lived in the area for thousands of years.

Ruby Gap is part of the West MacDonnell Ranges, which is a chain of mountains that runs west of Alice Springs. The ranges are sacred to the Arrernte people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. The area has many significant cultural sites, including rock art galleries, ceremonial sites, and sacred places.

Ruby Gap is a popular spot for hiking and camping, but it is also a remote wilderness area that is not easily accessible. Visitors to the area should be well-prepared, as there are no facilities or services in the area and it can be challenging to navigate. Permits are required to access the Ruby Gap area, and visitors should be aware of the cultural and environmental sensitivities of the area.

More about West MacDonnell Ranges

The West MacDonnell Ranges are a chain of mountains located west of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory of Australia. The ranges are a major tourist attraction and are known for their rugged beauty, unique geology, and rich Indigenous history and culture.

The West MacDonnell Ranges stretch for over 160km, and are made up of several distinct mountain ranges, including the Heavitree Range, the Simpsons Range, and the Larapinta Range. The ranges are made up of ancient sandstone and are characterized by steep cliffs, deep gorges, and rocky outcrops. The area is home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including the red kangaroo, rock wallaby, and various bird species. The area also has several permanent waterholes, which are important for wildlife and for the Indigenous people who have lived in the area for thousands of years.

The West MacDonnell Ranges are sacred to the Arrernte people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. The area has many significant cultural sites, including rock art galleries, ceremonial sites, and sacred places. The area is also home to several popular hiking trails, such as the Larapinta Trail and the Simpsons Gap Walk, which offer visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the ranges and learn about the Indigenous culture and history of the area.

The West MacDonnell Ranges are also a popular spot for camping and picnicking, but it is also a remote wilderness area that is not easily accessible. Visitors to the area should be well-prepared, as there are no facilities or services in the area and it can be challenging to navigate. Permits are required to access the West MacDonnell Ranges area, and visitors should be aware of the cultural and environmental sensitivities of the area.

Northern Territory and Places to go

Linked

Choice of Camp Sites and more

Having been around Europe, Namibia and RSA and NZ and Australia, I can camp and sleep and feel good according to circumstances.

However, for long term stays more than 2 nights I prefer a combination of reasonable price and shade and clean bathrooms plus pool plus no noise.

During school holidays I was asked to pay 100 AUD for an unpowered site per night, which is a Motel double Bed Price.

My experience with campsites depends on location and time (season) and spot clean and well managed chains with anual membership accounts are worth trying: One longer stay saves you more than the fees for two years.

Linked

G’day Parks in Australia

G’day Parks Australia offers a fantastic network of over 300 parks across the country, providing travelers with a variety of camping and caravan sites in some of the most stunning locations A. Here’s why a membership with G’day Parks can be a great choice:

Benefits of Membership

  1. Discounted Rates: Members enjoy a 10% discount (up to $50) on accommodation bookings A.
  2. Exclusive Offers: Access to exclusive partner offers and everyday savings from trusted brands A.
  3. In-Park Perks: Benefits like free early check-in, late check-out, free bag of ice, and park equipment hire A.
  4. Additional Nights: One extra night free for every ten nights stayed or three separate stays within a year A.
  5. Digital Magazine: Free access to the G’day Digital Magazine, packed with travel tips and inspiration A.
  6. Community: Join a community of like-minded travelers who share tips and stories, enhancing your travel experience B.

Why It’s Worth It

  • Cost-Effective: The membership fee is only $50 for two years, making it a cost-effective way to save on your travels B.
  • Convenience: Enjoy the convenience of added benefits and discounts every time you stay at a G’day Park A.
  • Support: Be part of a supportive community that helps you plan your adventures and make the most of your travels B.

With these perks, a G’day Parks membership can enhance your camping and caravan experiences, making your adventures more enjoyable and affordable.

Maria Ines at Taronga Zoo Dubbo NSW | Credit phb
Myself at the same spot | Credit phb

My favourite App to get information is WikiCamps Australia.

Reading the reviews, I tend to book short term and discuss details on the phone like time of arrival.

High Season like Xmas I drive 400km into the Hinterland, then move in wider circles back to the coast when some people are leaving early like 6 Jan.

After 2 or 3 nights at the ocean we drive back non stop to the Gold Coast in Queensland. Along the M1 we do not more than 400km per day.

Follow us here until mid Jan 2025.

Linked

Peter Hanns Bloecker, Director Of Studies

and Maria Ines

About Us

Contact

Planning a longer trip in Australia?

We offer help and infos on request.

Do not get stranded and take care, wishing all of you a good and successful New Year to come.

Last update Wed 1 Jan 2025

Ampel

#Germany

Ampel

WHY?

cui bono

Warum alles ein Ende hat (ausser Wurst, die bekanntlich zwei hat). End of the Red Green Yellow Project in Berlin (Ampel).

King Olaf fires The Yellow (liberal) Prince Christian Lindner. (FDP)

The Green Prince Robert stays at the Court (Berlin).

Annalena, the Green Princess, is abroad or on the Plane.

Now the Narratives and Confusion and Stories at the Court following the Shakespearian Concept: 

Who betrayed whom?

Whose Head was on the Block and why?

Treason and more like Macbeth and other great plays.

We shall see …

No Drama.

Only Politics, while the rest of the world moves on.

Our Globe is still rotating.

The Sun Also Rises.

Like before not possible,

Green now with Merz (Black)?

Yellow (Liberals) will certainly try to survive the next election in early 2025 in Germany, and then try again with CDU / CSU (Merz).

Interesting indeed, plus the new Trump Government (USA).

Exciting, in fact.


Peace now in sight with Putin and Peace in Palastine as well, once Hamas and other Terrorists have been crushed.

Hopefully once and for all.

Kindly yours from the Gold Coast in Queensland

Peter H Bloecker

Linked

Updated Thu 7 Nov 2024 at 09:19am.

Nachlese

FDP und Lindner, der unzuverlässige Partner

Linked

Lindner

Trump

I am not so much interested who wins the US elections in 2024, but rather why people there vote Trump at all.

In any Democracy the Majority of the population (The People) vote the Government they deserve.

USA

Electorate and Popular Votes

The Blue Wall States

Is the Blue Wall going to hold?

I find the discourse and comments on the US elections 2024 very interesting, for various reasons.

What is Democracy?

Democracy is coming to the USA (Leonard Cohen)

Music Is The Language

What are the expectations?

Why this Hype before and trend analysis?

My vote would be Kamala Harris, but one vote in millios of votes does not count at all. Only the total numbers are of any relevance counted in per cent.

Not voting is a vote: Like I had no time or would not know who to vote for.

Voting in Australia is compulsory, Pflicht , for many good reasons: The more votes the clearer the popular view. like 100 % have voted and 52 voted for Trump and 48 for Harris: This would be a very clear popular vote.

This does not mean, 48 % of the voters would be happy, but they would accept they lost.

The majority is not always rigt.

Only the Ocean is right, always right.

So why would people vote for Trump at all?

What are Swing States?

I would contact people in the country and ask them why Trump?

The answer would be more or less: We know what he stands for. We would neither agree with his behaviour nor his views.

But he sends out clear messages, he would not deceive us.

Do we know what Harris stands for?

The answer would be rather a clear NO.

Has she performed during the campaign? In fact Biden has not performed, and she had to replace him suddenly.

Was she a good Vice President?

No clue, in fact!

And she is a city person.

We do not like and trust people there in the Big Cities.

Brisbane in Queensland is called The Big Smoke.

Elon Musk und Trump und Zuck und Cäsar

Trump und Putin

Comment from Munich before Election Day in SZ App | Author Heribert Prantl: (Example)

 Die Lüge war und ist für Trump das Mittel für den Machterwerb. (Macht)

Schwindel, Betrug, Fälschung, Unverschämtheiten: Das alles hat es seit jeher in der großen und kleinen Politik immer wieder gegeben – aber selten so dreist, so unverfroren, so alltäglich und drecksfrech wie bei Trump.

(Trumpet Trump)

Zwar hat schon Niccolò Machiavelli vor fünfhundert Jahren das Lob der Lüge gesungen. Er war der politische Philosoph, der lehrte, dass zur Erlangung oder Erhaltung politischer Macht jedes Mittel erlaubt sei, unabhängig von Recht und Moral: Wer ein großer Mann werden wolle, der müsse ein „gran simulatore e dissimulatore“ werden, ein großer Lügner und Heuchler. 

(SIC!) = SICK!!!

Man hatte bisher gedacht, das sei in Demokratien anders, man hatte gedacht, dass in Demokratien die Lüge den Lügner immer schneller einholt.

Trump widerlegt diese These! (Bisher)!

Dem Mann gebührt nicht die Wiederwahl, sondern die Verdammung seines Angedenkens.

Aber einen gewissen Dank hat sich selbst der Trompeter Trump verdient:

(Was lernt ein Krieger des Lichts von seinem ärgsten Feind?)

Trump hat den bequemen Glauben daran zerstört, dass Demokratie und Rechtsstaatlichkeit in den Kernstaaten der sogenannten freien Welt sich, und sei es auch nur langsam Step by Step, quasi weiterentwickeln zur Wahrheit hin.

Das Sichergeglaubte ist nicht sicher, weil Aufklärung nicht ein einmaliges und immer bleibendes Ereignis darstellt.

Aufklärung ist immer notwendig.

Immer und nicht nur manchmal oder von Zeit zu Zeit:

Immer wieder neu!

Wie notwendig sie ist, zeigt die Faszination, die ein Dauer-Lügner wie Trump auf eine Vielzahl von Wählerinnen und Wählern ausübt.

Vor 240 Jahren, im September 1784, hat Immanuel KANT einen seiner berühmtesten Sätze zu Papier gebracht: “Aufklärung ist der Ausgang des Menschen aus seiner selbstverschuldeten Unmündigkeit”. 

Der Hype um Donald Trump zeigt heute oder morgen, wie wichtig dieser Ausgang noch und gerade im Herbst 2024 ist.

This Text was copied from my SZ App and the Author is Heribert PRANTL.

Adapted and re – edited by myself.

Ver – dichtung.

Die Wahrheit kommt immer ans Licht!

On Sundays Maria Ines and myself love to explore our Backyard stretching from the Southern Gold Coast to the Northern Rivers and the Tweed Valley to Byron Bay and the Byron Shire or Hinterland:

Many people and tourists do not have the time to explore the Hidden Valleys, they rather prefer the Gold Coast Beaches and the Bars and Restaurants and Parks.

As a man from the Country, I tend to explore the Farms with Animals and Vegetation and Crops and always come back to Farm Life and Country People for many reasons:

Country people are generally said different from City People.

Why?

This is another smart question…

Kindly yours from the Gold Coast plus it’s Hinterland wishing my reader a good and successful week

Peter H Bloecker

Retired Director Of Education

Truly Northern & born between the Horizons

Of Denmark and Hamburg and North Sea and Baltic Sea (From Kiel in S – H).

Credit phb
Credit phb
Maria Ines | Credit phb
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Byron Bay | Credit phb
At Byron Beach Hotel | Credit phb

Wir leben in spannenden Zeiten …das ist sicher!

We all live in disruptive days for sure!

Certain is only uncertainty.

Carpe Diem!

Family First!

Education Second!

In a Nutshell: Why does Donald Trump become the POTUS of the USA a second time?

In these days of Uncertainty and Disruptions the United States population has voted clearly for a strong and white Man: In these days a vote for a non – white woman in the White House?

Obviously not at present, Kamala Harris has performed in the big cities, however not enough in the Country and smaller towns and communities in the United States.

But one day, Democracy will come to the USA as well (Leonard Cohen)

And Music Is The Language.

Peter Hanns Bloecker, Director Of Studies (Retired)

Linked

Updated Wed 6 Nov 2024 at 15:39pm.+++++

Nachlese

Kopiert aus der SZ App

Sehr clever – indeed:

In seiner Rede sprang Trump von Thema zu Thema. Dass er jetzt hier stehe, nachdem es mutmaßlich zwei Anschlagsversuche auf ihn gab, sehe er als Zeichen. Er sagt: „Gott hat mein Leben verschont, damit ich unser Land rette und Amerika zu seiner Größe zurückführe. Und jetzt erfüllen wir diese Mission zusammen.“ In seiner Ansprache erwähnte Trump auch den Unternehmer Elon Musk, hob dessen Unterstützung heraus und lobte Musks Raumfahrt- und Satellitenfirmen, um die China und Russland ihn beneiden würden. Trump sagte, nun sei es an der Zeit, das, was die USA spalte, beiseitezulegen und zusammenzukommen, wie es schon während seiner ersten Amtszeit der Fall gewesen sei.

Cognitive

What will your life be like in three years?

Hmmm …

Not very different from now: I have managed 75 years successfully, and there may be 21 more years to come.

Or 7 or 14 …

Who knows?

I will be three years older and wiser for sure.

And reading and writing and blogging like in the last 21 years:

On Higher Education and Life Skills.

I might publish my first eBook …

Or even better: I might have published my first eBook successfully.

What do you think?

What is Time? How does it work? Tik Tok …

What does Time DO with us?

Read more about Cognitive Development

Now …

Cognitive

Credit phb

The Name of the Rose

Historical fiction murder mystery set in an monastery in 14th century Italy Reading this book has been a long time coming. When I was in year 12, I …

The Name of the Rose

Only one of my favourite novels, Umberto Eco worked as a Linguist.

The film is quite well done with Sean Connery as the main actor and his young disciple …

Adaptions from Goethe: Der Zauberlehrling.

Kindly yours

Peter H Bloecker

17 Jun 1953

Another historic day of 2 German States after WW2 and the uprising of the Bln people against Soviet Tanks!

Later same story in Hungary!

And Prague! Now in the Ukraine!

The Volksaufstand in East Berlin on June 17, 1953, was a significant uprising against the government of the German Democratic Republic (GDR). It began with strikes by construction workers in East Berlin on June 16, protesting against work quotas during the Sovietization process. The next day, the demonstrations escalated into a widespread uprising involving over one million people across about 700 localities in the country.

The protesters demanded political and economic changes, including the resignation of the government, free elections, and the release of all political prisoners. The uprising was marked by a wave of strikes, mass demonstrations, and political protests. It was one of the largest revolutionary movements in Germany’s history and had a profound impact on the long-term development of the GDR.

The Soviet Union responded by sending troops to suppress the uprising, resulting in violent clashes and numerous casualties. The event is remembered as a pivotal moment in German history and is commemorated as Tag der Deutschen Einheit (Day of German Unity) in Germany.

Haus der Geschichte

Wikipedia.com

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