Snow

Heather Baillie-Brown 2013

There is something truly magical about snow. I am not entirely sure of what it is, but there is just something special about it. While it may be cold, it brings warmth into my heart; childhood memories, winter sports and the beauty that it can produce.

This year, I am excited to take part in more in-depth winter photography and film, as well as flying, hanging out with friends and family, working out / sports and many, many more activities. We are truly lucky for our give of seasons here in Canada (although sometimes, they can be a pain). It adds more diversity to this already diverse country and helps us to treasure the summer more, and the warmth of our loved ones.

Just remember to drive safely!

My Elements (If I had to choose)

Okay, okay, I recently finished watching the latest released season of "Avatar". The Anime takes place in a world where some people are "Benders" and can control the four elements: Earth, Fire, Air and Water. Except the magical avatar can master all four and bring peace to the world, etc... However, watching the show (Now "Legend of Korra") I just had to ask myself: If I was in this fictional world, or even our world, what element(s) do I connect the most with?!

Hmm, I believe I am a mix of Air and Water (probably mostly water).

Air

Air seems to be the element of Balance and freedom. For me, I am obviously a pilot and understand the winds, and air through my training, and natural skills. Air is the element of serenity, and it is a factor I reach for in life. Like air, I find the peaceful solution and serenity in situations. (And I can fly through it legally with my licence!)

Water

Water seems to be the element of healing, peace, emotion, and spirit. I think out of all four, that I bond strongest with Water (I know, kind of surprising for a pilot and a non-swimmer), but like water, I live a life of emotional experience, and seek the love and friendship of others. I am a healer of others, and sort of a "cleanser" of problems.

Is Reading Week Really "Reading Week" Anymore?

"Have a fun reading week, everyone!" Our teachers say to us as we pack our bags and quickly vacate the class. While it is called "Reading Week", do the teachers even expect students to do homework at all anymore? While I cannot complain tat I get some more free time to travel, work, etc... I cannot help but feel that there is a loss as well. Education is very important, and should continue outside of school. While most of my teachers made sure I at least "open" my books by placing tests on the first days of returning to school, I feel that we as a province have come to the point that it is basically just a week off to relax.

I don't mind having no assignments, but I do see the public school elementary school system lacking. "Apparently" I have heard that teachers are no longer alowed to give homework to elementary students anymore? (Please correct me if I am wrong). If this is so, I believe this is a mistake of our school system. We must encourage our students of the future to develop good study habits at a young age, for when they become a 19 year old student like me, they will have good, positive habits, and get all their work done BEFORE reading week, so they can enjoy their post-secondary experience better. ;^)

In end, I believe there is a balance between work and play, and we carry our habits into our careers and beyond.

The Magic of Creating Worlds

It doesn't matter if your tool is writing, music, film, painting, dancing, photography, etc... Whatever! Creating worlds through your self-expression is an extraordinary art, indeed! From the many greats such as Shakespeare to more modern world (universe creators) such as George Lucas all create their own worlds through their own artistic ways. Sometimes, the arts can be taken for granted and lose their understanding on how important they really are!

I love creating my own worlds through ALL of the methods I mentioned above (yes, even dancing!) It's just the most remarkable feeling to be able to create through your heart. What you create is yours, yet can feel like it can grow and become larger than a universe, if not two!

If you never tried making your own world(s) before, just try it! And you might be surprised with what you end up with! Who knows! You might be the next J.K. Rowling, or the first (insert your name here!)

Have fun!

Privacy Please

Online privacy has always been an issue, but recently it has been on the front pages of most news sources. With the United States’ top secret internet division exposed and multiple American companies being part of PRISM, and even the government being allowed to look at ones desktop, one may ask if there is there even such thing as privacy anymore?

From being children, we all understand that what happens on the internet stays on the internet, so we try to use common sense and avoid doing stupid things on facebook or Twitter, etc.. However, when the government is allowed to track your phone records, personal e-mails, texts, photos, calendars and uses on devices you bought from Apple, Microsoft, Google, etc… It is all getting out of hand.

While governments say that it is for “protection” it seems that this is no longer the case. Now, it seems that governments just want to watch their own people instead of real problems such as terrorism and hate crimes. If the government really cared about these negative topics, they would create filters, ASK people to use info, and actually follow their own charter of rights and freedoms! Be transparent and let the public have a choice! THEY are the ones who have elected YOU in! Without THE PUBLIC you don't have a job!

I feel concerned how much technology is becoming part of living, and how many people continue to remain oblivious to the privacy crisis currently at hand. If this is the shape of “privacy” now, what will governments do in ten, or even five? Any thoughts? Add your comments bellow.

A blog post about blogging...

Blogging really is amazing, isn't it? I mean, ten years ago, the only real things you could do were write in a journal, send your news to the TV stations or news papers or even just pass a message along peer-to-peer, but the progression of the internet (in the case, the evolution of blogging) has changed this all completely! 

Blogging is a great way to vent, keep a journal, become a journalist, share stories, etc... and technically its free! (well, blogger anyways)

I am so very happy and grateful I started blogging, for it is great for ones writing skills, and keeps me thinking and on my feet. The best part is that I don't feel "forced" into doing it, but instead, I actually enjoy it when I can add an entry. 

If you have EVER thought of blogging, just give it a go! Why not? Who knows, you might even become an addict like me! ;^)

Cheers,

Henry

Drones = Debate!

An MQ-9 Predator drone taxing. Source

Today, technology has come such a large way in a mere hundred years. For example: flight. Starting off with a little wood and canvas, the flying machines then gained larger fuselages, better engines and eventually weapons as a tool of war. Throughout time, the airplane has become such a remarkable feat of human engineering. Being able to take people around the world, transport cargo anywhere you want, send relief supplies around the globe and of course, be a means of military air superiority.

Today, drones are being used by countries around Earth, most notably the United States. While it is remarkable what they can do while not putting a human pilot's life on the line such as having the drone fly over Afghanistan while the pilot drinks coffee at home in the good 'ol USA. Drones are becoming today's keepers, but without the human element.

It is a very scary thought that these machines can have a mind of their own. Executing orders without human interaction. The loss of the human element of decision making means that it basically comes down to the numbers. When human judgement can save lives, a drone only has programming that serves as its morals. One day, the US may be in the situation when drones such as the MQ-9 predator drone (see photo above) may be authorized to patrol across the United States. It is a very scary thought that a government can have so much control with machines.

A big concern is a sense of "Battlestar Galactica Syndrome."  While the machines may not start thinking for themselves, hackers can basically hack into any computer. It has already been proven that hackers can hack into, and control US drones.

While they can provide protection, drones can also become the bars of the cage that can hold the world under fear.

Source

Thank you: More than just words

They really are... People have gained friendships, jobs, opportunities,  and so much more by using these two simple, yet effective words. However, it is not just the ability to say these words in your language, but also feel them; you mean it. With sincere gratitude comes sincere results. When you display your gratitude for a person or situation, other people notice this, and your feelings become contagious with those around you. The next time someone holds a door open for you, remember to say "thank you." The next time someone gives you a tip at work, say "thank you" and when someone you love gives you a bear hug, squeeze out the words "thank you." Be happy for what you have in your life, you deserve to be happy, and never take anything for granted.

Surrounded by Awesome People

I really am. All around, I see future doctors, pilots, writers, artists, astronauts, politicians, environmentalists and more. The world of tomorrow, here in the friends and peers of today. I am so very lucky to be surrounded by such great people. I have friends over in Ghana, saving the world to people in the Canadian forces protecting Canada and the world. I am surrounded by amazing people.

We really have to remember to take a step back and remind ourselves how lucky we are to have the special people in our lives and remember to never take them for granted. However, while realizing how amazing others our, one must remember to also be amazed by him or herself.

Sometimes, we need to learn from our friends and peers

Social skills are VERY important to have, especially in today's modern technologically advanced world. yet, we must remember to get rid of the screens every now and again and return to face-to-face so we remember what the 'real' social world is. When with our friends, we can learn a lot about others, interactions with other people, problem solving and even ourselves! Friends are friends because they obviously like you back as well, and accept who you really are. Therefor, meeting and hanging out with friends shouldn't be a hassle, but it is when conflict, or asking others different questions when one starts to see the results of interaction.

What I am trying to say is remember to look at people from not just yours, but also their perspective. Use empathy before you judge someone. Accept constructive criticism and suggestions from others, but remember to pay attention to how others react in other situations. I am a 'person watcher' who likes to see how people react to situations, and I feel as if by watching others, I am more socially aware of the world around me.

Screw it, just frigging do it

Sometimes in life, there are those moments when you ask yourself "why am I not doing this" or "I want to do this, but I am just not" or "I wish I could do this idea or goal" or "I wish I could be doing this or that." Sometimes, you just have to stop thinking and just GO! Take a leap of faith, try something new and just do it!

That is my life advice for the day.. Now get off your computer (or whatever device you are on) and go do something fun that you've always wanted to do! Go skydive, start that workout or talk to that 'person' GO!!! :^D

I love my family!

Chilling with the cousins down in Oakville

I love my family. I am so lucky that I have such a caring, loving, diverse and adventures bunch of pals to share life with. It really is remarkable how amazing everyone is. All beautiful and unique in their own, brilliant way. From the more "elder" side of the spectrum to the "youngling" side, our family is very strong, and is full of love for each other, as well as a love for making the world a better place. From building schools in Africa, to serving in the Canadian Armed Forces, to helping  the community, to raising special dogs to help the challenged, my family is a 'super family.'

They are also all very gifted. From athletes, to travelers, to those who are bilingual in French and English, and those who can speak Klingon, they are all fantastic. I am surprised every time, and I am honored by their presence, as well as smiles.They make life fun, and can make any day a sunny one.

Thanks, everyone! Rock on! ;^)

The power of a good story.

It really is amazing how a story can impact our lives. The narrative can be through a film, or book, screen play or even spoken word. It is beautiful how the translation of a series of events can be shared between human minds as a story. I feel like we take the entire process of story telling for granted. It doesn't matter if the works are fiction or non-fiction, but I feel as if it is a dying art, just like handwriting is being replaced by typing.

While there are may brilliant pieces of art still released today, the worlds media seem to just be focusing more on quantity over quality (just like the article about EA earlier). We are seeing more mindless movies about just explosions and action, combined with horrible stories and plots. I feels as if it is going to be hard to find another magical experience that truly entices the imagination of the audience. Works such as the earlier Disney movies, Star Wars, the classics, may never be seen again as new ideas.

It seems that society is becoming a thing that craves a short sense of excitement and then mindlessly wandering off, instead of having a narrative; a true experience that will blow one's mind. Short films that we will only remember for a few days and then that will be forgotten by next week instead of the films or books such as Harry Potter that has inspired an entire generation into reading, or using their imagination.

The Road to becoming a famous Youtuber - 1

This year, I am finally starting my goal of creating a successful Youtube brand, and learning to master the basics of the industry. For the name of the channel, I wound up choosing "Supersonicclank." The username that I created around 2009 for my first time playing Battlefield 2 online.

While I am still working on most of the admin, art and paperwork side of things, I am, however, pleased to announced that the main focus will be on gaming, tutorials and a few other snippets. A VLOG channel may be started down the line, but I've always wanted to do one!

I will share more updates as they come, but I can forward you to the new beta of supersonicclank.weebly.com  to get a more clearer understanding of what's going on! Cheers!

Naked Yoga?!

I just found the idea interesting. Not because people are naked, but just that it really does give away that last feeling of "ego" so then one can truly learn to relax and focus more. I love how people after naked yoga accept their bodies more often than regular people because they must shed their last hints of material wealth and just take a moment to be nothing else, but human. That's a little bit of philosophy for today. Any thoughts?!

The Many Wonderful Perks of Being Single

If you want to date me, please refrain from reading this blog ;^)

Hmm, Single while everyone else has a partner? Don't sweat it! (Pic by me)

Yes, I know, it's shocking. Perks of being single? What? Why? Well, for a long time, I've been moaning and groaning on both the past and the present about relationships and how they look so awesome, and I've wanted to experience one and all that. I finally took a step back and took a look at my situation. One day (hopefully) I will find that first true love person, and everything will sort its self out. Until then, guess what? i'm single. So why be sad about the cards your dealt? Sometimes, you just have to suck it up and 'deal' with it (Card pun, tee hee) So I looked at all the perks of being single, and it made life a little easier for me.

1. You can hang out with whoever you want: Since I don't have a girlfriend, I can hangout with any girl or guy I want without being questioned about 'loyalty.' I'm honestly an honest person, but I can live without all that drama of being 'taken.'
2. You still have Money: They say having another half is healthy for your soul, but disastrous for your pocket book. After every holiday, birthday etc... I've had friend groaning because they are spending so much money taking their boyfriend or girlfriend out. Luckily  I don't have to worry about it, and can save money for university, flying and single, anti-social things. 
3. Dreams of 'that' person: Since I'm single, I don't know what my future will be like! Will i meet someone in a coffee shop? In an airport? On the moon? Who knows! I can have hope of meeting that 'right' person to be with. 
4. Me time: While it can sometimes feel like a curse, having a lot of 'me' time feels great. You can sit, read, write, run and many other things whenever your life dictates, and you are free to do so instead of having to look after another person. 
5. Maturity: While dating seems to be apart of growing up, luckily  I've missed most of the drama and heartbreak that comes with 'young love.' Even if I have NEVER been in a relationship, I am always the friend who is counselling others about their relationships. I feel as if I have learned a LOT from being on the outside, and feel more mature about it.
6. Closer to friends: Without that other force in your life tearing you away, you can spend more times with friends! While it may feel like your stuck in the friend zones of all the girls you know, it still feels nice to be able to get close to everyone when being single. 
7. Personal development: This should be your top priority regardless of your relationship status, but being single means that you really only have one person to worry about: YOU!
8. Live your life: You have no tie downs! Let your wings soar! 

Dear mini-me (Contest entry for StudentAwards.com)

For a scholarship last month, I entered a contest for a scholarship. The rules were simple: Write to your younger self about if you could do it all again, what would you change? Here is my entry:

If I could do it over again (through the magical Student Awards Time Machine), I would tell my younger self that it is OK to fail.

Life is meant to be enjoyed, so have fun. Don’t be living a life of fear in feeling that if you try something and you don’t succeed, you are a failure. This is not true. Life is about making mistakes and learning from them. If you don't succeed the first time, its OK! Try again, and again until you get it, alright?

You failed to get into the Air Cadet Glider camp TWICE, but the third time, you didn't get in again, but you got a special scholarship to York Soaring because you are such an amazing person! This also goes for asking "you-know-who" out to prom. Now being in a victory lap, it my greatest regret not asking her out. Just be yourself and ASK! It's OK if you fail, at least you tried and gave it your best shot! At least you KNOW.

You can only live your life once, alright, buddy. I want you to enjoy it to the max, so its OK to take risks with a possible outcome of failure. Imagine if Neil Armstrong never went to the moon because he was afraid of the mission failing! (which was a major possibility)

Never give up on your dreams, Henry. Never say no to them, just live your life.


With love from your future self,

Henry

Why I Am So Nice

Sometimes, I look at myself in the mirror and wonder: Why am I so nice to people? It is a simple question that I cannot find a simple answer to. I've been thinking (probably too much) lately on the answer to why. Here are a few of my many thoughts:

As a friend, I've always helped those closest to me. The assistance may take the form of 'counselling' to helping get ready for a job interview, to teaching a topic to someone, to helping them with relationships, confidence and even goal setting. While I might not be repaid, I still give it my 110% when helping. I think I do it for a few reasons.

1. That what friends do! I care, and love my friends. I WANT to see them succeed in life, and will try my darnest to give them the tools to do so. While the pen is in their hands, I can still give them a pretty darn good pen to write with.

2. Personal feelings: I guess besides just feeling like a good Samaritan  I guess I also have that 'feeling' that I should do it.

3. What am I doing? Sometimes  I forget about myself and can throw myself under a bus for others (hopefully not literally!) But why? Why help someone that might not repay, or even WANT to stay in my life? I guess its just I love people... The worst feeling is feeling alone, and I guess I don't want people to leave me. Probably one of my biggest traits about me is integrity. I want the truth, and honesty to win in all situations. I want people to stay in my life, because they are beautiful, smart and caring people too.

4. Its my way of saying I love it that you are in my life: Just like many other humans, I want to be able to show how much people mean to me. While everyone has their own way of showing this, I feel as if my 'good deeds' are my way of showing these feelings.

I guess this is the reason why sometimes I can appear 'too nice' or become 'instantly friend zoned ' While it really sucks a lot of the time, I shouldn't change who I am for another person, but I will admit, sometimes it is hard.

Writers Block

Auug, the 'wonderful' thing. Doesn't matter if it takes the form of no motivation, distractions, procrastination, or even just a blank mind, writers block seriously drives me mad.

Everyone seems to have their own way of tackling it. Some run, some play games, some hangout with friends, and some do many other things, but I have no clue how to get rid of it. Personally, I just wait for it to go away. One of the things I do is just start writing. You may not know what you are writing about, but JUST START. Once you've started, your brain seems to wake up, and ideas finally come to your head. Well, for me anyways. Luckily  my mother is a writer and showed me this trick. It works (some of the time) but a lot of the time, I am stuck waiting at my computer or notepad; yearning to write, yet lack the words. Sometimes, I also go out for a run just to get the mind pumping and clear. Anyone have any other ideas in getting rid of writers block?

The fun little things in life...

If your in a bad mood, always look for the amazing little things in life! Here are a few to get you started:

1. You have a computer / source to read this in the first place! AWESOME!
2. Out of the billions of stars, solar systems, etc... Earth is PERFECT for life! Live life!
3. You have been given this life with FREEDOM. Live your dreams!
4. You have a HEALTHY mind to be reading this right now!
5.  You HAVE food, water and atmosphere!
6. You can LOVE who you are, and others as you see fit!
7. You have a beautiful IMAGINATION that can create anything! 
8. You are BEAUTIFUL! 
9. Your hearts beats for you UNCONDITIONALLY every beat, it loves you. love it too!
10. You have this LIFE!