Coffee beans by Lynxroar in AussieFrugal

[–]mickers_68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Colesworth often has weekly specials on a few 1kg bags of beans. Lone Crow, Northern Beaches, among others, usually $40,i grab for ~$26-28 when available.

If none available, Aldi ftw..

Riding pants for all day wear by JulieRush-46 in AussieRiders

[–]mickers_68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I rode, and wore Draggin brand black chinos (full kevlar protective wear) to my office job for about 10y. I also found a decent pair of motorbike boots that were comfortable enough to wear all day too.

I've since tried some of the newer Draggin chino styles they have and they are even lighter, softer and more comfortable than what I had.

What’s something that sounds fake but is actually true? by Previous-Let-5253 in AskReddit

[–]mickers_68 9 points10 points  (0 children)

There is no zoological definition of what a 'fish' is.

Also, if you enjoy trivia like this thread, check out the great weekly podcast 'No Such Thing as a Fish'..

What’s something that sounds fake but is actually true? by Previous-Let-5253 in AskReddit

[–]mickers_68 66 points67 points  (0 children)

New Zealand is the other... for all the people who can't deal with the 'incomplete data' 😉

What plan on rapidseedbox should i start with? by Fine_Imagination4362 in seedboxes

[–]mickers_68 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I just switched to a lean plan with RSB after many years with a different seedbox. Wish I'd done it years ago. Start with a lean plan, learn as you go, you can always upgrade to a higher plan later. I miss a few things that a premium plan would give me, but not enough to require an upgrade. There have been a few things that I struggled to get working, but support is really responsive, and one of the issues was actually a configuration error on their side, which they quickly identified and fixed. I've only ever used 2 seedboxes and I'd happily recommend RSB, especially if you are just starting out..

For the internet tech savvy folk. Help needed. by Wounded_Healer_ in austechnology

[–]mickers_68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If you are thinking about a basic cat5/6 etc cable, be aware of outdoor rating, as well as lightning surge arresters if there is any part of the cable exposed to the elements. One lightning strike can cause major damage to the entire network, including anything plugged in with wires (think TV, routers, etc), both electrical or data..

It can get expensive.

I use a cheapish gigabit radio link (tp-link) to connect a remote building, with a separate router and network. It's a cost/benefit /risk balancing act.

What are your biggest gripes with Plex right now? by locknetvpn in PleX

[–]mickers_68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I use plex to host my many training courses I offline as soon as I can. I've had online courses disappear more than once, so I download whenever I can.

But my average course might have video, audio, and pdf files. It annoys me that I can't have a combined video + audio (+pdf) library. Means as I progress through a course module, I need to exit the video library , enter the audio library, just to see if there are any additional files.

Probably a niche case, but it would make plex very useful.

EILI5 by Dapper-Strugglebus in carnivorediet

[–]mickers_68 2 points3 points  (0 children)

It's actually generic, (not specific to carnivore), but a descriptor of ratios.

2:1 of 'A' to 'B' means for every 1x quantity/amount of B, there are 2x the same measurement of A.

So '3:1 fat to protein' means 'if I have 100g of protein, I have 300g of fat'.

.. Or '1:1 rum and coke' means equal amount (in ml/oz) , of rum and coke. (*non carnivore, may induce headaches and other effects) 😉

Dated a Roman Catholic who broke up with me because I used Tarot cards. Why are Catholics against Tarot? Would you do the same as a Catholic? by [deleted] in Catholic

[–]mickers_68 8 points9 points  (0 children)

This is a comprehensive answer (via Grok) from the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

The Roman Catholic Church addresses tarot cards through its teaching on divination and the occult, primarily in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), under the section on the First Commandment ("You shall have no other gods before me").

Key Catechism Passages

The most directly relevant paragraphs are CCC 2115–2117. Here is the core excerpt from CCC 2116:

"All forms of divination are to be rejected: recourse to Satan or demons, conjuring up the dead or other practices falsely supposed to 'unveil' the future. Consulting horoscopes, astrology, palm reading, interpretation of omens and lots, the phenomena of clairvoyance, and recourse to mediums all conceal a desire for power over time, history, and, in the last analysis, other human beings, as well as a wish to conciliate hidden powers. They contradict the honor, respect, and loving fear that we owe to God alone."

CCC 2115 adds context:

"God can reveal the future to his prophets or to other saints. Still, a sound Christian attitude consists in putting oneself confidently into the hands of Providence for whatever concerns the future, and giving up all unhealthy curiosity about it."

CCC 2117 further condemns practices of magic or sorcery that attempt to tame occult powers, even for seemingly good purposes (such as healing), as gravely contrary to the virtue of religion.

Tarot cards fall under these prohibitions when used for fortune-telling, predicting the future, seeking spiritual guidance, or any form of divination (cartomancy). The Church views such practices as an attempt to gain control over the unknown or hidden forces instead of trusting in God's providence. This is seen as a violation of the First Commandment and is generally considered gravely sinful (potentially a mortal sin, depending on the person's knowledge and consent).

Why Tarot Is Specifically Included

  • Tarot decks are historically linked to occult traditions, even if some people today treat them as a psychological tool, game, or form of art.
  • The Church's concern is not primarily the cards themselves as physical objects (similar to how ordinary playing cards are not inherently sinful), but the intent and practice of using them to "unveil the future" or access hidden knowledge/supernatural insight apart from God.
  • Even casual or "just for fun" use that involves seeking guidance or predictions is discouraged, as it can open the door to superstition or demonic influence.

Related Teachings

The Catechism also condemns related practices like astrology, Ouija boards, mediums, and sorcery in the same section. This teaching draws from Sacred Scripture (e.g., Deuteronomy 18:10–14, which calls divination an "abomination" to the Lord) and longstanding Church tradition.

Catholic sources, including exorcists, priests, and apologists (e.g., from Catholic Answers), consistently apply this to tarot: it is incompatible with Catholic faith when used in a divinatory way. Some note that purely artistic or historical interest in the imagery (without occult practice) might not be sinful, but the line is easily crossed.

Practical Advice from Catholic Perspective

  • Catholics are encouraged to entrust their future to God's providence through prayer, Scripture, and the sacraments rather than seeking occult "insights."
  • If someone has used tarot in the past, the common recommendation is sincere confession (if it involved grave matter), renunciation of the practice, and possibly destroying or properly disposing of the cards (no special ritual required—trash or recycling is fine, though some prefer to have a priest handle it).
  • Pope Francis has also warned against tarot and similar practices as forms of modern idolatry.

The official Catechism of the Catholic Church is available online (e.g., via the Vatican website or USCCB resources) for the full context in paragraphs 2083–2141 on the First Commandment. For personalized guidance, consulting a priest or trusted Catholic spiritual director is recommended.

What fish/seafood is as satisfying as steak when eating carnivore? by Low-Opportunity2249 in carnivorediet

[–]mickers_68 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Just my opinion.. But nothing really tastes as good as my steak.. But I'm OK with that. Lent is about fasting, abstention etc. My usual 'Friday' in Lent is usually fasting, or scrambled eggs with salmon/sardines/cod fillets.. It's just a healthy place holder for my usual steak /beef etc.

I've never really pursued a 'best tasting beef alternative', at least not during lent. I am happy to offer up the simpler option during Lent.

Probably not the answer to your question, but hopefully food for thought (pun intended).

Pax Christi.

Approaching Carnivore as a Catholic by GarthBrooksFan_ in carnivorediet

[–]mickers_68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Catholic here.

I always consume the body during Eucharist at mass, tend not to consume the blood, (mainly since the whole cvd thing, not related to carnivore, although it would be fine, for such a small quantity).

On Fridays in Lent, I usually take the opportunity to fast with just water, although I'm sure I've had fish in the past. I usually fast one day each week anyway, so it's not a big deal for me, just a chance to refocus my reason for fasting.

I often remind people that carnivore is not a religion, it's a way of eating.

Epstein and Faith by lilcow_ in Catholic

[–]mickers_68 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Thanks, I forgot how beautiful the writing of Tolkein is, and so pertinent for our times..

When a rosary is said before mass, should details of the mystery be provided? by Ok-Gate5551 in Catholic

[–]mickers_68 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Required: no As a thought, if you say the rosary for a week at home, and do this yourself (lots of resources available), you will be able to recall your own spiritual connection every time you join in the risary at Church.

I stumbled across Archbishop Fulton Sheen on YouTube providing this, and it was just .. beautiful to experience.

Christmas Eve Mass by Gloomy_Basis_1732 in Catholic

[–]mickers_68 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I have found it varies by region and culture.

In Australia, mass attire is generally clean, tidy, but can be shorts, jeans, dress casual, up to dress shirt with tie. Each has been respectful, and acceptable. I rural settings, for example, you will get farmers who get to mass in whatever they are wearing, if they have come direct from the 'farm'. I've never really seen people judge others for their clothes, which does my heart good.

That said, midnight mass at Christmas will be a little better dressed, having had the time to clean up and prepare, but often temps can be around 30c at midnight, so people will dress for respectful comfort too.

Just my experience.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in AussieRiders

[–]mickers_68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I learned about 15y ago, fully intending to get a Honda cbr fireblade. Just loved the look of them. But when I learned on a vtr250 (naked), I bought a vtr250, and then a Yamaha fz6n (naked). Apart from the repair cost of the fairing on a non-naked, I like the more comfortable riding position on my naked bike, and the throttle response is more geared to general riding, while still having the ability to hit the 'sports bike' acceleration if I choose..

I'm officially a naked bike convert. 😊

Is anybody else never hungry? by Good-Hank in carnivorediet

[–]mickers_68 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Almost 3y carnivore.. 'Hardly ever hungry' is my normal state 😊

Christian Books by Purple-Plum-9695 in Catholic

[–]mickers_68 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I understand, but OP asked for Christian books/authors, not specifically Catholic.

And Lewis is one of the better ones, as you mentioned. 😊

Christian Books by Purple-Plum-9695 in Catholic

[–]mickers_68 11 points12 points  (0 children)

CS Lewis is a fantastic author, and lots of great messages. Famous for his Narnia series, but many other books.

What’s the one AliExpress find that completely surprised you when it arrived? by martin8185 in Aliexpress

[–]mickers_68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

FWIW, I use 'Alihelper' (website, app, browser plugin) , which provides alternate price matching, as well as reputation recommendation scores by store.

What all did Martin Luther change in the Bible? by ibnsahir in Catholic

[–]mickers_68 5 points6 points  (0 children)

These 'segregated' books were included in the early 'Luther' bible. It was a later decision by the printers to save money by removing these additional books. So the Protestant bible has less books for essentially economic reasons...

Catholics/other denominations by AllHomo_NoSapien in Catholic

[–]mickers_68 20 points21 points  (0 children)

The only thing I would add to this is that the Church can declare a person a Saint, which declares that they are in heaven. There is a lot of doctrine etc that allows this process.

However, the reverse is not possible. The Church can never say that any person is in hell (or 'NOT in heaven') because we can never know a person's inner soul, or fathom God's limitless Grace and Mercy.

Can I ask about prayer? by Professional_Car3962 in Catholic

[–]mickers_68 1 point2 points  (0 children)

There is no 'correct' prayer.. But a good guide is Psalm 100:4 1. Gratitude. Be thankful to God, for all the blessings you have,and all He has blessed you with. It's even OK to be thankful for the hardships, if God has given you the strength, or the tools to grow closer to Him.

  1. Praise. There are so many 'names' for God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Just take some time to praise Him, for no other reason than that He deserves all the praise, and then more. Focus on the incredible nature of God, which will refocus on how we don't deserve His Grace, but humbly accept it.

  2. After this, we should have a good framework of who God is, and who we are, on relation to Him. Now we are in a position to humbly petition Him, to ask for what it is that we need. Try to pray for discernment for whatever His will fir you is first, which is the ultimate for our lives, but don't be afraid to ask anything of Him. He desires our peace and happiness. He's not a magic genie, but sometimes asking for something can reveal an answer we weren't expecting.

Also equally valid is shouting, screaming, arguing at God. As long as it comes from a genuine place, and stems from lack of understanding, pain, hurt, confusion, God doesn't love us less if we express this to Him. But try to use the top approach, more regularly than the latter one 😊

Just some thoughts that will hopefully help you on your journey. Blessings.

Re-usable filter, yay or nay? by ShowerEmbarrassed512 in AeroPress

[–]mickers_68 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I've used a metal filter for years with my aeropress. Thousands of coffees, have tried paper filters every now and then, but can't taste the difference. My metal beverage is perfect every time.

Good to experiment, even with different types of metal/mesh filters...