26Apr 2015 by Vincent Summers No Comments

The Futility of Forging Science into Philosophy

philosophy
[caption id="attachment_6638" align="alignright" width="480"] Finding the answer.[/caption] At one time, most people were deeply religious, allowing their beliefs to direct their actions. That is, generally speaking, not the way of most of the world. Religion as a force for good is no longer the norm. In its place, some would forge science into philosophy, a substitute for religion. How futile! Science Into Philosophy Science is one of the most fascinating studies one can undertake. Science helps explain how the universe functions. But just as a hammer isn't the tool to remove a tooth, science isn't the tool to determine origins. Consider some examples. Astronomy The universe inspires believers in creation. Those not believing see only a big bang. Believers in creation can’t "prove" to the satisfaction of disbelievers that creation…
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23Apr 2015 by Vincent Summers 6 Comments

Gathering Morel Mushrooms

Food
I'm not one to go gathering mushrooms in the wild. There are too many risks. The one gathering mushrooms must be certain what he is gathering, or he may wind up very sick or very dead. But there is a single exception for me. I don't mind gathering morel mushrooms. Why do I feel so confident about them? Appearance Morel mushrooms proffer a very definite time window for gathering. Morel mushrooms also present a very distinct appearance, different from other mushrooms. Just look at the image associated with this article and it becomes obvious that my words are true. They look like miniature sponges! Preparing In my limited experience, morel mushrooms offer no unique flavor that distinguishes them from all other mushrooms. Still, it has a delicate texture and is,…
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13Apr 2015 by Vincent Summers 10 Comments

You Can Eat Onion Grass

Food
Some plants aren't what their name suggests they are. For instance, reindeer (or caribou) moss is really a form of lichens. Or take the blackberry lily. It is really an iris. Again, the may apple does not grow in May on a tree, but is a small plant seen often in April that is only about a foot tall! Then there's onion grass. When I was a youngster (this was in the 1950s to 1960s), we used to pull onion grass and sniff it. I'm not certain what the thrill was in this, but it was a ritual that had to be engaged in by all. We'd pretend we were going to eat the stuff. But is it possible to eat onion grass and not get sick? What's in a…
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01Apr 2015 by Vincent Summers 2 Comments

Spring Daffodils – Grim Hurricane Reminders

History
[caption id="attachment_6598" align="alignright" width="480"] Daffodils in Massies Mill, Virginia serve as a living testimonial. Image courtesy Sean Korte.[/caption] Hurricane reminders can be grim. Rather like Beauty and the Beast. In August of 1969, a terrible storm, downgraded from hurricane status, struck Nelson County in Virginia, killing more than 150 people – washing away and otherwise destroying many homes and other buildings. This tragedy is etched in the minds of survivors and is a hallmark of the county's history. It will not quickly be forgotten. To this day, newcomers can see evidence of the devastation. Green Acres is the Place to Be In the Green Acres area in Lovingston, a mountain cliff can be seen that is naked of soil and trees, though gradually it is filling in with small vegetation. But…
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