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Tag Archives: Buddhism
Peace that passes all understanding
May the peace and blessings of the holy ones pour forth into the worlds, Rest upon the Work* and the workers, Protecting, purifying, energizing, and strengthening them. There is a peace with passeth understanding; It abides in the hearts of … Continue reading
Posted in Life's Insights, Mahayana Tagged Buddhism, mantra, Master DK, peace Leave a comment
I take refuge.
I take refuge in source of all emanations. Womb of beginnings Gapping vaginal maw that sucks all back to the same never-left womb. I take refuge in the Victors. Like seeds long buried in the soil They arise from delusion's … Continue reading
A Journey Within: 15
Two videos from the BBC 1. Everyman: Richard Gere's Buddhism 2. The Seven Wonders of the Buddhist World
A Journey Within: 12
With a wish to free all beings, I shall always go for refuge to Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha until I reach full enlightenment. Enthused by wisdom and compassion, today in Buddha's presence I generate the Mind of full Awakeness for … Continue reading
Posted in Mahayana Tagged Bodhisattva, bodhisattva vow, Buddha, Buddhism, compassion, Dharma, humanity, mindfulness Leave a comment
A Journey Within: 11
I take refuge in Buddhadharma, deeply so. I take refuge in all the teachings of light and illumination from all sources. I rejoice in reading a blog post by Monika at Symbol Reader or Rory at Beyond the Dream. Monika's … Continue reading
Posted in Life's Insights, Mahayana Tagged Buddha-nature, Buddhahood, Buddhism, perception 5 Comments


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Hi Folks, today I'll blog about Azure Private Link. That feature isn't really new but with a small "preview" add on it makes sense for me. Microsoft announced VNet Integration in preview for WebApp which is an awesome news, because it's highly important for me demo in that Blog Post. Continue Reading
Login to Azure VM with Azure AD credentials
Hi folks, some of my customers are waiting for that feature. It's currently in preview but for my point of view for some reasons production ready. First of all, I want to explain a use case for that solution. This BlogPost is splited into 6 sections Use Case Possible solutions Continue Reading
Create full mesh VPN to Azure and AWS with Unifi USG
Hi folks, in that Blog Post, I will explain how to create a full mesh VPN between On-Prem Azure AWS Great solution, but why I spend my time to blog about that solution and WHY I post something about AWS? It's quiet simple, I have the environment to test that Continue Reading
Workshops deliver this year @Microsoft
Hey folks, this year is an awesome year! I deliver many workshops @Microsoft with different content. Here is the public announced list from Microsoft. https://www.microsoftevents.com/profile/web/index.cfm?PKwebID=0x1146480abcd My sessions are: Azure Cloud Essential (Basic and Level1) Azure VM migrate Azure Well-managed All sessions have theoretical and Hands-On content. I'm really happy to Continue Reading
Azure Virtual Network TAP in preview
I often get the question from my customer: " is it possible to add network packet collector or analytics tool to the Azure Network?" The answer is "yes but that service is in preview and will be provided by a Microsoft network virtual appliance partner" Network packet brokers are: Big Continue Reading

subset: commoncrawl


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*Based on results of studies conducted by independent laboratories of Chem-Dry's Hot Carbonating Extraction process. Allergens tested were dog and cat dander and dust mite allergen. All bacteria results include use of sanitizer. Figures are an average across multiple homes. Hard surface bacteria tests were based on independent lab testing associated with EPA registration #s 84683-3-74771 and 70385-6; sealed stone and VCT surfaces were evaluated and bacteria tested include salmonella, influenza and E. coli.


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The Department of Education has developed an app – Safer Schools – to help safeguard young people during the current situation. There are different versions of it for students, parents and staff.
Attached is the information for parents/carers on how to download and access the app. It contains a wide range of information to help you keep your child safe online and we would recommend it to you.
We would also recommend that you encourage your child to download their version of the app – download instructions for the student version of the app are on page 2 of the attached information.
Best wishes,
Hunterhouse College Safeguarding Team
Safer Schools ParentCarer InformationDownload


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This is occurring as credit card companies reverse transactions for flights that have been cancelled. In response, airlines are sending the travel agents involved agency debit memos (ADM) requiring them to pay the transaction amount back to the airline.
Whether this is legal or right depends on whose credit card was used to make the booking, i.e. who the contract is between. If the booking was made on the consumer's credit card, then the airline should not be issuing an ADM against the travel agent.


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Emergency dental care may be needed if you lost a filling, cracked a tooth or have an injury.
Appointment Request
You may be experiencing receding gums if you noticed your teeth look longer. You may also have noticed a receding gum line as gums appear to be pulling back away from your teeth. If your gums recede, gaps may start to form between the tooth and gum. This creates a pocket that allows bacteria to build up. If a receding gum line is left untreated, gums, teeth, and tissue can become damaged. It's possible to even lose a tooth. Gum recession is a common dental condition but since it occurs gradually, many people don't realize it's happening.
Over time, as the gums recede, you may notice one or more of these symptoms:
There can be many factors that contribute to gum recession. It can also be a combination of factors including one or more of these common symptoms:
The best treatment option for receding gums will depend on how severe it has become and the cause. Dr. Gibbs offers numerous gum recession solutions and individualized treatment plans. Fluoride treatment and professional cleaning can often be beneficial. In some cases, a gum lift may be an appropriate treatment plan.
The best care is preventative care. Routine exams help find problems like receding gums before they become too problematic. When dental conditions are discovered early, they are more easily and successfully treated. If you notice your teeth look different or longer; or if your gums seem to be pulling back from your teeth, make an appointment for an exam right away.
The roots of our teeth anchor them in the gums and jawbone. Like the tooth, the roots have nerves. If you have an exposed tooth root, it can cause sensitivity. Left untreated, it can lead to serious dental health problems. The good news is that if you have associated pain, especially while brushing your teeth or eating cold or hot foods, Smile Glen Ellyn can help relieve your pain.
There are many reasons that might contribute to a tooth root showing through gum tissue. Most of the time, one of the types of gingivitis, or gum disease is the primary culprit. At Smile Glen Ellyn, we want to get to the cause of an exposed tooth root. This helps develop a plan for treatment and take preventative measures. The causes of exposed tooth roots and nerves include:
Gum disease. When you have gum disease, your gums can become swollen and weak. This also makes you susceptible to loss of gum tissue which means they recede and leave roots exposed.
Harsh brushing. When you brush your teeth, if you apply too much pressure, it can strip the enamel and cause gums to become inflamed. This can lead to root exposure.
Trauma. Any kind of trauma to the teeth, even teeth grinding, can weaken the protective outer layers and leaves nerves and roots exposed.
Orthodontic work. Braces can make it harder to brush your teeth properly. When you do not stick to a regular oral care regimen, the enamel can weaken and leave inner layers vulnerable. If you are being treated by Glen Orthodontics, discuss oral care with your dental care provider.
Misaligned teeth. Teeth out of alignment can cause gaps along the gum line. This allows a buildup of plaque bacteria and can leave gums vulnerable to disease.
Tobacco use. Smoking damages your teeth and can increase your risk of exposed tooth roots. Tobacco use puts you at risk for decay and tartar buildup which are the leading culprits of gum disease.
If you are worried about having an exposed tooth root, there are plenty of symptoms to let you know there is a problem. One of the most common symptoms is tooth sensitivity. If you notice severe pain when you are eating or drinking sweets, acidic foods, or hot and cold beverages you may have a tooth root showing through gum tissue. When roots are exposed, gums may bleed, swell, or become tender. The affected tooth may become discolored. The nerve might become infected and be swelling and pain.
Your dentist in Glen Ellyn, IL may recommend you brush with a toothpaste for sensitive teeth to curb the pain. Also using a soft-bristled toothbrush can be helpful. Avoiding the use of tobacco can help reduce sensitivity associated with an exposed tooth root. Also, talk to Dr. Gibbs about treating types of gingivitis and gum disease. A dental surgeon may be able to cover the exposed area with a gum graft. Sometimes the exposed areas can be covered with dentin or white sealers. Nightguards can provide protection from a trauma that often occurs during nighttime tooth grinding.
Contact Dr. Gibbs, Dentist
If you suspect you have an exposed tooth root, make an appointment with Smile Glen Ellyn. Dr. Gibbs and his staff can discuss appropriate treatment options and preventative measures you can take. Call us today with your questions and concerns. Or, schedule an appointment for an exam today.
Give Thanks For Great Smiles
Hello again!
We hope that you find this blog to be a useful resource about dentistry. And if you are looking for a trustworthy dentist in Glen Ellyn, IL, we hope you will give our office a call.
In any event, it is hard to believe that Thanksgiving is almost here and, at Smile Glen Ellyn, we think it is worth reflecting on all of our blessings. Most of us have so many things to be thankful for.
If nothing else, we have the power to change our lives for the better, and that is a blessing in and of itself.
Always remember that when you are less than pleased with the state of affairs in your mouth, our team can help you make it better fast with one of our cosmetic dental solutions.
Treatment timetables will vary depending on the severity of your issues but, in some cases, you could be in possession of a stunning new smile by the new year!
How's that for something to be grateful for?
But let's not get ahead of ourselves.
First, you have to come in for a cosmetic dentistry consultation and let us determine the best treatment, or combination of treatments, to address your needs.
Until then, we have some options for you to be thinking about.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Most Americans could benefit from a whitening treatment at some point in life. This is because our teeth darken over time and our daily habits (i.e. chocolate and coffee) tend to leave deep stains.
Luckily, at Smile Glen Ellyn, we have professional whitening services that will give you something to smile about.
If your preference is to have your teeth whitening performed in our office, we have several options for you to choose from that can give you a brighter, whiter smile in no time.
And if you'd rather tackle the whitening process at home as your schedule allows, we have office-guided take-home kits you can use for a safe and effective experience.
As a special thank you, we even offer a whitening for life program that allows you to receive whitening kits as long as you maintain your routine cleaning appointments.
Whatever you do, don't trust your smile to a kit that you can buy at the grocery store. Your Glen Ellyn dentist can get you better results in the end.
Dental Bonding
Cosmetic bonding is a great way to transform damaged teeth. The bonding material is durable and can be shaped to correct chips, gaps, cracks, and uneven teeth.
It is a quick and easy procedure as well.
A lumineer is a thin, prepless veneer that can be shaped and fitted to your teeth in short order. Lumineers can drastically improve the shapes of your teeth to give you a more desirable look. Who wouldn't want that?
Invisalign Invisible Orthodontics
No one wants a better smile in the future at the expense of their current appearance. That's why adults shy away from conventional metal braces even when orthodontic treatment would do them a world of good.
Invisalign takes that into consideration. In about a year you can correct crooked, crowded, and gapped teeth without having to endure the hassles of wearing metal brackets and wires.
Instead, you rely on a series of nearly invisible, removable aligners that discreetly and comfortably work to get the job done.
There are no dietary restrictions, mouth sores, patronizing nicknames, special tools, or in-office adjustments required to get your stunning new look.
Six Month Smiles
When you have teeth that are misaligned in the front of your mouth, we can deliver Six Month Smiles. Yes, this treatment wraps up in a matter of months!
This quick, concerted orthodontic approach can completely change the look of your smile without having to tackle the bigger, harder-to-move teeth in the back of your mouth.
We focus only on the teeth that show when you smile. And we promise that you'll be smiling a lot when we are through with you.
Schedule Your Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation Today!
Contact our Glen Ellyn, IL dentist's office to get learn more about the cosmetic dentistry possibilities and get started today.
We can't wait to meet with you!
Short-Term Treatments, Permanent Smile Solutions
Welcome back to the Smile Glen Ellyn dentistry blog!
Our Glen Ellyn, IL dental team is here to keep your mouth healthy and your smile radiant.
If you are less than satisfied with some aspect of your smile, we will work with you, regardless of age, to set things straight.
We take our job seriously because we know how much your overall well being depends upon your smile. After all, you need strong, fully functioning teeth to consume a balanced diet. And you need to feel confident enough in your appearance to flash your smile at business associates or friendly acquaintances. If things are not as they should be, it could lead to an unhappy existence.
Nobody deserves such a fate.
Especially when, nowadays, we can craft a beautiful new smile for you in a very short amount of time.
Is that even possible?
And no, we don't use magic, witchcraft, or wishful thinking! We call this quickly growing field, short-term orthodontics.
How's that for a straightforward name?
Anyway, the good news is that for perhaps the first time ever, you can now have fast-acting braces that don't cry out for negative attention.
Here at our Glen Ellyn, IL dentist office, we have viable solutions that allow our busy adult patients to get the orthodontic work they desire without anyone knowing they are undergoing treatment for crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth.
So, if you go through the process at Smile Glen Ellyn, to the outside world it might well appear as though you achieved your smile magically!
Aren't Braces For Teenagers?
More and more grown ups are realizing that they could benefit from an orthodontic solution. But most don't want to have to feel like an awkward teenager during a lengthy treatment period.
If you can relate, then you are in luck.
In fact, this is the beauty of short-term orthodontics.
No matter which type of short-term orthodontics you select, the result will be a fabulous smile that is discreetly delivered in no time.
Six Month Smiles From Smile Glen Ellyn
The Six Month Smiles method aims to get you a better smile in six months give or take, depending on the severity of your situation.
With clear brackets and tooth-colored wires, this is an improvement on conventional braces, and no one will be able to tell they are there from a distance.
The turnaround time is so fast because we will be focusing our treatment only on the teeth in the front of your mouth, the ones that actually show when you smile.
If you get started now, this could allow for a stunning new look by St. Patrick's Day.
Invisalign At Smile Glen Ellyn
Invisalign is another great short-term orthodontic treatment.
This method relies on clear plastic aligners that fit snugly in your mouth, not unlike a whitening tray, to shift the misaligned teeth into a better position over time.
Your teeth will gradually move in the right direction as you switch aligners on your own at home every two weeks or so.
They are nearly invisible, comfortable to wear, and, get this, they are actually removable.
This makes eating an enjoyable experience and cleaning your aligners is a breeze.
Invisalign isn't for everyone but it can work wonders for the right candidates.
Schedule Your Short-Term Consultation Today!
Are you ready to hear more about short-term orthodontics at Smile Glen Ellyn?
Then contact our Glen Ellyn, IL dental office today to find out how you can get a new smile in a matter of months!
Brighten Your Smile With Dentist-Guided Whitening
Welcome back to our Glen, Ellyn, Illinois oral health blog!
At Smile Glen Ellyn, we strive to provide comprehensive dentistry solutions for your whole family in our office on Park Boulevard.
We are committed to helping you achieve the healthiest, most radiant smile imaginable.
As dentists, we know that this is an important part of your overall wellbeing. But we also know that your smile is among the first things that people will notice about you, and base their judgements upon.
Right or wrong, so much of your social acceptance and professional networking is bound up with your level of self-confidence and your appearance.
Luckily, if you have teeth that have become darker, more yellow, or deeply stained, our Glen Ellyn, IL dental team has whitening solutions available that can drastically transform your look in just one office visit or a few easy at-home sessions.
Do Your Teeth Paint A Picture?
Aging will take its toll on your body, but it is always better than the alternative, right?
The same goes for your teeth. With every passing year, your pearly whites will start to darken and fade.
What's more, your daily habits aren't helping you on that front.
Do you start your day with coffee from Einstein Bros?
How about a fountain soft drink when you take lunch at Javi's?
Or some chocolate to give you an afternoon boost?
What about a nice glass of red wine at dinner?
If you enjoy any of these things, you are in good company.
But your teeth will paint a pretty accurate picture of your lifestyle stain by stain.
That's why you need to let your Glen Ellyn, IL dentist facilitate a teeth whitening treatment that will restore the splendor of your smile.
Over-The-Counter Kits Are Not The Way To Go
All over town you can find so-called whitening solutions in every grocery or drugstore. Some of them even have some pretty persuasive packaging. But don't let that fool you!
Unfortunately, these over-the-counter kits are not usually that effective, and they can even be dangerous if the gel meant for your teeth gets onto your gums.
This happens more than you might think, because the whitening trays you get from the kits are mass manufactured with a one-size-fits-all approach.
It would be more accurate to say they are one-size-fits-none.
But, don't worry, we've got you covered at Smile Glen Ellyn.
Dentist-Directed Teeth Whitening In Glen Ellyn, IL
Our Glen Ellyn, IL dental team knows that you don't have time for the empty promises contained in OTC kits. That's why we offer in-office whitening and dentist-supervised take-home whitening procedures.
Our in-office teeth whitening involves the application of highly concentrated peroxide to your teeth. The procedure is safe, effective, and the results are guaranteed to make you smile. Most people notice a major improvement in the color of their teeth after only one office visit.
Dentist-supervised at-home teeth whitening is another great option, especially if you'd rather whiten your teeth on your own timetable.
For this method, we will design a custom tray that fits your teeth perfectly. Typically, you would wear your tray filled with whitening gel for several hours every day for two weeks.
Whichever method you go with, we will work to quickly get you a brighter, whiter smile.
Get Started At Smile Glen Ellyn
Contact our Glen Ellyn, IL dental office today to schedule your one-on-one teeth whitening consultation with Dr. Gibbs.
We'll give you something to smile about!
Get An Autumn Smile Makeover
Welcome back to our Glen Ellyn, Illinois dental blog!
It is hard to believe that Fall is here but, at Smile Glen Ellyn, we are always ready to take on a smile makeover, regardless of season.
If you want to recapture the smile of your youth, or escape from issues that have plagued you your entire life, we can provide dental solutions custom designed to fit your needs.
Now that the leaves are changing color and falling off of trees all along Park Boulevard, you too can cast off your old look for the smile of your dreams.
Treatment timetables will vary depending on the severity of your current issues but, in some cases, you could be completely done with your cosmetic dentistry work by the time the new year comes along.
How's that for something to smile about?
First, you have to come in for a consultation and decide exactly what needs to be done.
In the meantime, we have plenty of options for you to be thinking about ahead of your appointment.
Teeth Whitening Solutions
If you prefer to have your teeth whitening done in our office, we have several options for you to choose from that give you a brighter smile fast.
If you'd rather handle the whitening at home on your own schedule, we have office-guided take-home kits you can use for a safe and effective experience.
We even offer a whitening for life program that allows you to receive whitening kits as long as you maintain your routine cleaning appointments.
A Bonding Experience
Cosmetic bonding is a wonderful way to transform your teeth.
The bonding material can be shaped so as to correct chips, gaps, cracks, and uneven teeth.
Pretty cool, right?
Lumineers are a folk-rock band from Denver.
That much is true.
But in our world, lumineers refer to a dental solution that is a bit of a step up from cosmetic bonding.
This form of thin, prepless veneer can be shaped and fitted to your teeth very quickly.
The takeaway is that lumineers can radically reconfigure the shapes of your teeth to give you the look you desire.
Invisalign Clear Braces
Invisalign is a great method of orthodontic treatment for busy adults.
In a matter of mere months you can correct crooked, crowded, and gapped teeth without having to endure years of wearing metal brackets and wires.
For teeth that are out of whack in the front of your mouth only, we recommend Six Month Smiles.
This quick, concerted treatment method can completely change the look of your smile without having to mess with the bigger, harder-to-move teeth in the back of your mouth.
As the name implies, your complete orthodontic treatment will be wrapped up in 3-9 months with this option.
Schedule Your Autumn Makeover Consultation Today
Contact us at Smile Glen Ellyn to begin the process of improving the health and appearance of your smile.
We can't wait to get started!


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Here are some of the most frequently asked questions, safety and operation overview.
Operation & Safety
Amuheat's Footwarmer mat heater uses approximately 75W of power and takes 15 minutes to heat up fully.
Footwarmer is electrically double insulated with an internal over-temperature cut-off switch. The power cord has an in-line on/off switch.
To operate, plug into a regular 230V power outlet and switch on.
If after long-term usage, a bright under-fabric appears below the grey carpet material the mat must no longer be used.
Restrictions and Precautions in Use
:: Do not cover
:: Do not bend
:: For indoor use only"
:: Switch off when unattended
:: Do not wash or wet with water – clean with a dry brush or vacuum
:: Do not use if there are signs of physical damage to the power cord, switch or mat
:: Do not use as a pet heater
:: Only use on surfaces resistant to temperatures of up to 60deg Celsius
This appliance should only be used by, or under the supervision of a competent adult.


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Should Men shave their legs?
Humans are one of the few mammals that do not carry a dense layer of protective fur. Shaving body hair has often been associated with beauty standards. While smooth and beautiful legs are generally associated with women, more and more men are embracing the leg shaving culture. We delve into why men are shaving their legs more than ever before and if it is really preferred by the opposite sex.


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The Monster Truck Monster has captured Pichi's Princess. You have to help Pichi rescue the Princess. Dodge all the creatures sent by Monster Truck & teach Monster Truck a lesson. Get ultra latest POWER-HIT Pichi Run with power-ups & Amazing challenging Levels! Face the unknown dangers and fear is waiting you!
Legend of Pichi – This is an action packed game where you need to destroy enemies, cross different obstacles, overcome dangers while collecting as many coins & jewels as you can to score the highest points.
This game is dedicated to my 2 year old son, Pichi.


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Rob McGowan is worried we have already forgotten one of the great lessons of the Covid-19 lockdown – how to be a community that looks after each other and the natural world.
McGowan, now 71, is also known as Pa Ropata, revered as a Pakeha with fluent Te Reo Maori and an intricate knowledge of traditional Maori medicine, or rongoā. He lives on a 2.5ha lifestyle block in Tauranga covered with native trees, shrubs and plants – many of which are intended as treatments for various ailments.
A former Catholic priest, he also works with Ngā Whenua Rāhui, a Department of Conservation unit supporting the protection of indigenous ecosystems on Māori-owned land – and he has travelled New Zealand, teaching and running rongoā workshops, since 1993.
A fascinating man, his connection with the land, forests, waterways and people of New Zealand provides the basis of a lifestyle governed by the principles of what he calls Tiwaiwaka – where the whenua (land) is the mother of all life and human beings should not act as if we are the centre of the universe but a mere part of it.
He understands the need for initiatives like the one Te Hiringa Hauora/Health Promotion Agency and partners are undertaking to encourage New Zealanders— especially those in older age-groups – to reclaim the life that kept them busy and healthy before the pandemic struck.
The lockdown, he says, taught us a lesson which many are already in danger of forgetting: "It was all about love your neighbour as yourself," he says. "People forgot their personal concerns or saw them in the context of membership of a community they belong to. It really was a family of five million.
"People had frustrations and difficulties, yes, but the overwhelming sense was that people noticed things and acted on things they were normally too busy for – like those who spoke to neighbours for the first time even though they had lived next door to each other for many years.
"People were saying, 'Gee, haven't we got a lot of birds'; they took notice of the native birds, the life and the trees because they had time to do so. My biggest concern now is that we have forgotten what we learned in that time."
The lockdown wasn't easy for McGowan, wife Lyndel and 20-year-old daughter Ella Mae. As a member of the demographic most at threat from Covid-19, McGowan pretty much stayed at home, travelling mostly only to his beloved bush to collect and clean seeds during seeding time.
Living on a 2.5ha block means social distancing wasn't a problem but McGowan worried about a 96-year-old aunt in a retirement home so comprehensively locked down she couldn't see anyone from outside. "Other than that," he says, "I was still working seven days a week seed collecting, writing, going online and God knows what.
"It was much harder for Lyndel. Her mum is 80 and her mum's partner in the mid-80s and neither of them was well. She is also a carer for a severely handicapped girl and all that put a lot of pressure on her – especially as Ella Mae had fragile health too. So it was a lot of pressure for her."
Out of lockdown, McGowan is maintaining his Tiwaiwaka vigil, exemplified by the saying "Ka ora te whenua, ka ora te tangata" ("When the land is well, the people will be well").
"That's why we put so much emphasis on restoring our water quality and the health of the land," he says. "It's fundamental to New Zealand's future. We need to make that more important than business development.
"Humans are not masters of the universe; we are just part of it. I have a rock at home that is 1.6 billion years old. We are nothing compared to that.
"We have to re-arrange our priorities; we have to be bold so that we have a world to pass on to those who follow us – who will otherwise think we are the ones who destroyed the world.
"Covid-19 really highlighted the fact that recovery is possible. The planet has an enormous capacity to recover. Look at Venice – a few weeks of lockdown and they had fish and dolphins in the canals.
"If we just give nature half a chance, she will fix it."
He says the Te Hiringa Hauora and partners' work will be aimed at helping others get back on their feet after lockdown: "Loneliness is a terrible sickness. I know there were some in lockdown who locked themselves up – didn't see anyone for weeks. A lot of health problems can spring from loneliness like that."
Part of the solution for those people, he says, is to get out "and celebrate spring; the jonquils are blooming already". That stems from McGowan's beliefs that human beings have lost their connection to the natural world and they – and the planet – are suffering because of it.
Lonely people could get out into the natural world as much as possible and even undertake simple things like gardening and understanding plants. "There's a lot of talk about seeing how amazing New Zealand is now that we can't travel overseas – and it is even more wonderful when we stop and go outside ourselves and realise how great New Zealand is when the spring flowers are blossoming.
"I read about the people locked in those big towers in Melbourne when the lockdown was re-applied," he says. "There are too many people in this world who have no experience of seeing something grow. They are here too – there are people who don't even have a pot plant in their home."
Virginia McEwan of Te Hiringa Hauora says that although Covid-19 is a cloud that could hang over us for a while, it will pass: "It is important for older people to realise that most of them have probably already gone through tough experiences in their lives and have come through them; they've seen hard times but have the wisdom and experience to know they can bounce back."
Covid-19 (lockdown) changed many things, a growth in the use of online banking being one example, she says. Older people can have difficulty adjusting to such and family can play a part in showing them how to manage such tasks.
Age Concern has recently launched a new website, full of information and wellbeing support for older New Zealanders: www.ageconcern.org.nz


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**Not for use on stainless.**
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