“Here, it is not the sperm, but the egg and the woman’s body that run the show.” (Lykke, 88)

The switch between viewpoints that this chapter reveals is revolutionary. The idea that the woman’s body has the control and intelligence in the reproductive process makes way more sense, and should be heard. It amazes me how societies project their beliefs and notions into scientific research to this extreme, and how culture and science are so interconnected. Our understanding of the world seems to be so based in beliefs and cultural environments.

When contemplating my thinking tool, I was inspired to reflect on the things that I surround myself with, especially when thinking. I realized that while studying or reading, or during class I am usually sipping on a delicious and calming cup of tea. The act of drinking tea helps me focus, helps me stay alert and calm, and helps me stay hydrated (as I sip and write). It is a great tool for thought, and I believe has aided people through history in thinking, writing and discussing.

This past saturday was my second grant writing class, where we started learning how to write the first steps of a common grant: Into, Needs, Objective. While this may seem easy, I assure you it is an  extremely intense and strategic process, that requires a lot of time. The amount of research, the amount of guidelines, and amount of care and particulars with writing is great. I won’t go into details, but its no surprise why more people don’t even attempt to write grants, and why nonprofits often struggle to survive.

Even though its challenging, I am learning how to think as a corporation or extremely wealthy individual, which is interesting. I have put my mind in their world and figured how they view the issues of charity and money. The amount of knowledge and 40 years experience that the teacher Don Chalmers has with nonprofits is incredible, and his personal experience is fueling my desire to learn. The amount of change that he has helped nonprofits accomplish is outstanding, and how he manages to bring millions of dollars back to the hands people impresses me. It astonishes me how there is billions of dollars sitting waiting to be given to grants.

Meanwhile, I started watching Yoga Unveiled, a three hour documentary on yoga from the roots to present day. I learned things that I never knew about yoga, and appreciate the clarity its brought me. One aspect I enjoyed in particular is that yoga is a lifestyle that is designed to return the human to its true, innermost nature, peaceful and happy; “heaven.”

The concept of connecting the Eastern and Western world was another theme in the documentary. It was stated that the East, particularly India, is the complete polarity to the West, particularly the USA. India culturally and historically being preoccupied with the spirit, and the USA being preoccupied with the material. Bringing these polarities together may be a key in evolving and transcending much of the negativity existing. I have toyed with this image for awhile now, and feel it could create a strong unity in the world.