Influence of Time: Time has the power to change the values of this world and people’s minds. The passage of time—past, present, and future—is only significant to humans, and if there is an all-powerful God, it likely holds no meaning for Him. Time accomplishes many things, and God rules the world through it. As time progresses, people change, and the world changes as well. When time flows, the world transforms, and it is natural for humans to adapt to these changes. My attitude toward time influences my values, which in turn shape my actions and perspectives. My values do not influence time; rather, time influences me. Observation is not just seeing the world but also seeing myself. It is a wise attitude to judge both myself, who is affected by changing times, and the world, which is already in flux. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
Paradoxically, one of the reasons for Rome’s demise was that it kept winning wars. Victories expanded the empire’s territory, and the risks increased proportionally. Men, primarily middle-class men, volunteered as soldiers; the larger the territory, the longer the wars lasted, and the longer it took for them to return home. The women who remained at home were forced to borrow labor and became indebted to the nobility. Eventually, the women were sold into slavery, and by the time the men returned, their families had disintegrated. People don’t betray because they’re evil, but because it increases their risk. If the territory you’re in grows, you might reconsider your loyalties to the organization. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”