• Ancient Philosophy

    Ancient Philosophy for Seniors

    According to the Greek philospher Epicurus and the teachings of Zen Buddists, always striving after the next pursuit in the later stage of life, as we do in younger days, is as foolish and empty as chasing the wind. When we are young it is a time for seeking out and exploring new avenues, seizing the brass ring, but after a certain point in life it is better to find contentment in what you have created and the relationships you have fostered. Activities such as reflection and appreciation can be richly enhanced by a full and varied past. Constant striving precludes our ability to be, and enjoy being, a wise, reflective and grateful person of a life…

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    The Man Who Predicted the Tsunami

    After studying ancient rocks, a Japanese geologist warned that a disaster was imminent—to no avail By PETER LANDERS The giant tsunami that assaulted northern Japan’s coast surprised just about everyone. But Masanobu Shishikura was expecting it. The thought that came to mind, he says, was “yappari,” a Japanese word meaning roughly, “Sure enough, it happened.”

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    Last in the Line of Succession, Ms. Vogel Is Glad She Isn’t Queen

    THE A-HED APRIL 27, 2011 Descendant of Sophia of Hanover, She Would Rule Britain if 4,972 Die By PAUL SONNE ROSTOCK, Germany—Karin Vogel wakes up in this graffiti-pocked east German city and drives to the hospital where she is a therapist who counsels elderly people in chronic pain. Karin Vogel is a direct descendant of an obscure German princess from the 18th century known as Sophia of Hanover. And that puts Vogel in line to inherit the British crown–after 4,972 other people. WSJ’s Paul Sonne reports from Rostock, Germany. a few thousand people would just disappear, Ms. Vogel would be leading a far more enchanting life. She would be the queen…