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With all the turmoil in the world, I’ve started thinking about what would happen if the electrical grids went down. We’ve all dealt with power outages, maybe for an hour or even a few days, but what happens if it doesn’t come back on? What if it’s a national or even global event that shuts down the entire electrical grid?We’re so used to everything running on electrical power that losing it would be more than an inconvenience. It would be something we haven’t yet experienced. ATM’s won’t work, grocery store checkouts wouldn’t function, we couldn’t get fuel, we couldn’t contact loved ones who live far away. &nbsp;It wouldn’t be apocalyptic, but it would be a real challenge. At the very least, it would be frustrating and for many, it would throw us into a state of complete panic.<figure id="figure-ecrzbkazohmkv8m01m"><img id="ecrzbkazohmkv8m01m" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39zk36nl7dkVLrAkm2mQ2BeHpHkCPPxTHPSMqJ8JyPiI3L5SZoNiitpvbCZYFTMn.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Ivan S. for Pexels" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39zk36nl7dkVLrAkm2mQ2BeHpHkCPPxTHPSMqJ8JyPiI3L5SZoNiitpvbCZYFTMn.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Ivan S. for Pexels</figcaption></figure><h3>Enter Ham Radio</h3>Although I’m not a “prepper”, it makes sense to prepare for potential disaster. That’s when I started looking into ham radio. This reliable means of communication doesn’t need the electrical grid to function, they can use batteries, solar panels, or small generators for power which means we can still communicate when the electrical grid goes down.For decades, amateur (ham) radio operators have been a critical link during emergencies when phones, the internet, and other systems fail. Remember those walkie-talkies we had as a kid? &nbsp;Well, ham radio operates in the same way. The devices send and receive signals through the air in radio waves and converts those waves into words. Invisible science feels like magic to me, but the fact that ham radios continue to work during a catastrophe makes it an invaluable tool.<h3>Getting A License &nbsp;</h3>Like driving, ham radio operation is serious business but it’s also a lot of fun. You need to study and take a test, then once you pass, you’ll be issued a “call sign” that is unique to you. There are different license levels, but the basic license is all you need to get started.In the UK, tests are conducted through authorized providers, and Ofcom issues the license and assigns your unique identifying call sign. In the US, licensing is managed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Tests and study materials are surprisingly affordable, but there is a definite time and effort commitment to obtain a license.<figure id="figure-k6ip6cramkv8rzax"><img id="k6ip6cramkv8rzax" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/41y0Tz5cDA7SQc064jfIKa2K6kXX4cItNzrwvAUOLqPIRdWSg5n93ZbuV0pk9tBm.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined% 40%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Wordhelp.com " data-positionx="undefined%" data-positiony="40%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/41y0Tz5cDA7SQc064jfIKa2K6kXX4cItNzrwvAUOLqPIRdWSg5n93ZbuV0pk9tBm.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined% 40%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Wordhelp.com</figcaption></figure><h3>The Lingo</h3>Abbreviations and codes make using ham radio efficient and effective. &nbsp;We use codes all the time, like typing FYI (for your information) on social media posts and texts to friends and family. Amateur radio lingo uses a similar type of abbreviations and codes to open and close conversations, and to identify themselves and their locations.You’ll need to know the NATO Phonetic Alphabet and use the proper lingo to start a conversation with someone. The lingo can be confusing at first, but there are “cheat sheets” that help you learn the codes and become acquainted with amateur radio language. Here’s an example of how a ham radio operator might open a conversation:<blockquote>“CQ CQ, this is W6ABC, Whiskey Six Alpha Bravo Charlie, calling CQ.”</blockquote>CQ is the code for starting a conversation, it’s like saying, “Hey, anybody out there want to chat?”W6 indicates your location. In this case, it’s California. Location codes are assigned by each country/region.ABC is your unique call sign. It is issued to you upon receipt of your operator’s license.Let’s say you get the following response to your transmission:<blockquote>“Hey there W6ABC (acknowledging your message), this is K2XYZ, Kilo Two X-Ray Yankee Zulu, calling from New Jersey, over.”</blockquote> K2 is the location of the operator responding to your CQ. In this case, they’re transmitting from New Jersey. XYZ is the unique call sign of the operator who’s responding to your CQ.Over means you’re done talking and it’s their turn to transmit.Just like police might say, “There’s a possible 47 in progress”, these message shortcuts are used by ham radio operators around the world, making for a well-organised and successful way of communicating.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-wsnc7gs93umkv8vqbi"><img id="wsnc7gs93umkv8vqbi" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/fotqARQPUYrg0JPjMfP3SMOOEru54y2arbStGPKcxQ0TrsJtPfRl5SYFpfu56fb2.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to SpencPhoto for Pexels" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/fotqARQPUYrg0JPjMfP3SMOOEru54y2arbStGPKcxQ0TrsJtPfRl5SYFpfu56fb2.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to SpencPhoto for Pexels</figcaption></figure><h3>Rules and Restrictions</h3>There are strict rules that all operators must follow:· &nbsp; No commercial business is allowed· &nbsp; No music or obscenity· &nbsp; No fake distress calls· &nbsp; Do not operate on emergency channels· &nbsp; Always give-way to emergency services· &nbsp; Follow the transmission rules set by each country<h3>Ham Radio as a Hobby</h3>I admit to being overwhelmed by this rabbit hole I ventured into, but ham radio is more than just a great tool to have around “just in case” of emergencies. In fact, there are over 2 million licensed operators around the world who are finding connections based on topics of interest or just learning about different cultures. And you might be surprised to hear there are lots of clubs to join for social connections too!In 1939, a woman named Ethel Smith started the Young Ladies Radio League (YLRL), an international non-profit organisation supporting female amateur (ham) radio operators. Back in the day, YL was the proper language used to identify the operator as a “young lady”. Of course, these days, YL just means the operator is a female. There is similar coding for men (OM – old man).The YLRL is a worldwide network of chatty women that has quite a strong following. They have an annual Hamvention® which was attended by nearly 34,000 women in 2023. They have scholarship programs and awards and publish YL Harmonics magazine. They even let you listen in to women operators before making the commitment required to become a licensed operator. And dig this, the cost of membership is only $15/£12 a year!&nbsp;In the UK, the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB) can help you find training and clubs in your area. &nbsp;In the US, the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) can provide resources and guidance about getting and maintaining your ham radio license. These are just a couple of the hundreds of organisations supplying information and study tools online at prices that I found surprisingly low. &nbsp;That tells me there's a lot of enthusiasm for the decades-old hobby.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-10yq5hvq79mkv8xv8y"><img id="10yq5hvq79mkv8xv8y" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19RqOAvJFqpCaJtkAVNmCC5NjJ8py2JY6Th1XCl1uQL3TN1QuoeZ2z9mQKlcUR3d.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19RqOAvJFqpCaJtkAVNmCC5NjJ8py2JY6Th1XCl1uQL3TN1QuoeZ2z9mQKlcUR3d.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><h3>Equipment</h3>This can be a very expensive hobby for very serious operators, I mean, some have license to chat with the International Space Station! The photo above shows a super fancy system that's far too sophisicated for my simple use. &nbsp;But entry level equipment might fit into your budget with prices starting around £30/$42 for a handheld unit with even nicer units just under hundred. <figure id="figure-l47mbckkfjmkx20ees" class=""><img id="l47mbckkfjmkx20ees" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aDj9byLAZwW8SDhESlUxIRYDCpksQoGQEsCHUB7fWIMG1otPgJvdYOoFAHKcoVu.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined% 25%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Yaesu Handheld HT Model: FT-4XE - Costs about £60/$75. &nbsp;Photo credit to Radio World. &nbsp;" data-positionx="undefined%" data-positiony="25%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aDj9byLAZwW8SDhESlUxIRYDCpksQoGQEsCHUB7fWIMG1otPgJvdYOoFAHKcoVu.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined% 25%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Yaesu Handheld HT Model: FT-4XE - Costs about £60/$75. &nbsp;Photo credit to Radio World. &nbsp;</figcaption></figure>This basic radio has a built-in antenna that could allow you to transmit about 3-5 miles. But if you’re able to get close to an unobstructed tower, like the towers on TV buildings, you could potentially reach 20-50 miles with just a simple handheld radio. * &nbsp;You can buy external antennas that can extend the range of your transmissions. If you lived in the middle of nowhere, having these additional pieces of equipment could allow you to keep in touch with people long distances away.&nbsp;Equipment determines your range, clarity, and how far your voice can travel. Buildings, terrain, and weather can affect transmissions. Higher ground, unobstructed views, and moving closer to towers should provide better quality messages at longer distances. &nbsp;Handhelds can cost under £100/$120 with prices jumping to over a thousand for the top-of-the-line equipment used by professionals who need advanced communication methods. But let’s say you fall in love with the handheld and want to improve your equipment, you can get a fully tricked out set of gear for about £800/$1100!<h3>The Magic of Radio</h3>Ham radio isn’t magic, and it won’t remedy all disasters, but here’s the good bit:· &nbsp; There are out-of-the-box options at reasonable price points· &nbsp; You can connect to others locally and worldwide· &nbsp; It provides a backup link for emergencies· &nbsp; The community is engaging and supportive· &nbsp; Ham radio is engaging and fun <figure id="figure-h11sxsli8mkx398y9"><img id="h11sxsli8mkx398y9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/395iyhHJqE0UeBQYj9EDNTx79li2viBL9UBaGCJ7noXKnQD7LAcPkfpJ90QFBhSv.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Susan J. Helms, Expedition Two flight engineer, talks to amateur radio operators on Earth from the HAM radio workstation in the Zarya module of the International Space Station (ISS). Photo credit to Wiki Commons." data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/395iyhHJqE0UeBQYj9EDNTx79li2viBL9UBaGCJ7noXKnQD7LAcPkfpJ90QFBhSv.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Susan J. Helms, Expedition Two flight engineer, talks to amateur radio operators on Earth from the HAM radio workstation in the Zarya module of the International Space Station (ISS). Photo credit to Wiki Commons.</figcaption></figure><h3> How to Get Started</h3>I want older women like me to know about this topic because of the peace of mind it could give us, the sense of safety in knowing we can reach for help if we need it. &nbsp;But the social component of amateur radio has been keeping women active and connected for a long time. &nbsp;Those of us who feel alone and isolated could enjoy real-time conversations which can significantly boost our overall wellbeing and add joy to our lives.So how to get started. Start by listening. Get in touch with your local club and ask for a listening session. Clubs will have an ELMER (a mentor) to help you learn the ropes.&nbsp;Study for your license. Study materials range in cost from $15/£11 to about $30/£22. Be sure to study for the license based on your country.Start with a handheld (HT) radio. They’re simple, affordable, portable, and enough to get you on the air after you obtain your call sign.Since ham radio is such a popular hobby, operators often put their used gear up for sale, making it more affordable and easier to grow into more advanced equipment.<h3>Closing Thoughts</h3>I have learned to listen to my instincts and that’s how I got started exploring amateur ham radio. What I discovered would not only be a useful tool if the shit hits the fan, but there’s a lively society of people chatting all over the world about the weather, their families, and their favourite recipes from Perth, Australia (VK6).Communities could invest in the equipment and pay for licensing 2 operators, ensuring a connection to the outside world in cases of emergency like natural disasters or the electrical grid shutting down. I know it would make me feel a lot safer.Amateur radio is a hobby I could sink my teeth into, and it’s certainly worthy of consideration in my household. Because the hobby can seem more complicated than it really is, I’ve listed some additional reading and resources below for those who’d like to learn more. Note – this article provides a general overview of amateur ham radio for informational purposes only. Regulations, licensing requirements, and operating practices vary by country and may change over time. &nbsp;Readers are encouraged to consult their national regulatory authority or a recognized amateur radio organisation for current guidance.*** Prices may vary. These are estimates from typical radio shops as of January and should be used as such.<h3>Additional reading and resources</h3> Young Ladies Radio League&nbsp;Website: <a data-mce-href="https://ylrl.net" href="https://ylrl.net">https://ylrl.net</a>Hamvention®: <a data-mce-href="https://hamvention.org" href="https://hamvention.org">https://hamvention.org</a><h3>A great article at Research Gate</h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374910196_Resilient_Communications_in_Crisis_Harnessing_Ham_Radios_in_a_World_Beyond_the_Grid" href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374910196_Resilient_Communications_in_Crisis_Harnessing_Ham_Radios_in_a_World_Beyond_the_Grid">https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374910196_Resilient_Communications_in_Crisis_Harnessing_Ham_Radios_in_a_World_Beyond_the_Grid</a><h3>US Sources for study</h3>The National Association for Amateur Radio<a data-mce-href="https://www.arrl.org/find-an-amateur-radio-license-exam-session" href="https://www.arrl.org/find-an-amateur-radio-license-exam-session">https://www.arrl.org/find-an-amateur-radio-license-exam-session</a>Ham Book<a data-mce-href="https://hambook.org" href="https://hambook.org">https://hambook.org</a><h3>UK Sources for study</h3>The Radio Society of Great Britain<a data-mce-href="https://rsgb.org/main/clubs-training/for-students/foundation/" href="https://rsgb.org/main/clubs-training/for-students/foundation/">https://rsgb.org/main/clubs-training/for-students/foundation/</a>Radio World<a data-mce-href="https://www.radioworld.co.uk/blog/ham-radio-communities-and-resources" href="https://www.radioworld.co.uk/blog/ham-radio-communities-and-resources">https://www.radioworld.co.uk/blog/ham-radio-communities-and-resources</a>*Equipment Distance Estimates<a data-mce-href="https://brokensignal.tv/pages/how-far-can-ham-radio-really-talk.html" href="https://brokensignal.tv/pages/how-far-can-ham-radio-really-talk.html">https://brokensignal.tv/pages/how-far-can-ham-radio-really-talk.html</a>

Amateur "Ham" Radio - Just In Case

My dad was a union bricklayer for over 50 years so my family was middle class. There wasn’t much we didn’t have when I was a kid. &nbsp;We always had food on the table, lots of clothes, bikes, vacations, the whole shabang. It wasn’t until I was on my own that I truly came to understand the concept of gratitude.Kicked out of the house at 17, I learned very quickly what it was like to have nothing. For weeks on end, I ate powdered mashed potatoes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and I only had the clothes on my back for a spell because my roommate gave all my shit away when I got arrested in 1976 (that’s a great story but not for now). &nbsp;Thankfully, I worked my way out of a really bad situation but I became grateful for food and warmth, and clean clothes.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-5m01muauykmkdwli8s"><img id="5m01muauykmkdwli8s" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/368FxaSbS8EROZh358uKMnbgXV3VVaRrITfSkELNDAvQawOJqSdnAaimXXCm0LD4.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 20%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="At my parents house about 1977" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="20%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/368FxaSbS8EROZh358uKMnbgXV3VVaRrITfSkELNDAvQawOJqSdnAaimXXCm0LD4.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 20%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">At my parents house about 1977</figcaption></figure>In 1978, I married a man with two toddlers and became an instant mother. Being a mom was the most important job I’ve ever held. &nbsp;I loved school conferences and football games. &nbsp;I loved having my sons’ friends over (I was the cool mom) and I loved the lessons we learned from each other. I even loved their mother who was often difficult to work with, but I’ll be forever grateful to her for allowing me to raise her sons to manhood.<figure id="figure-9y1pjzg4qdmkdwx76c"><img id="9y1pjzg4qdmkdwx76c" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/286kHln2CI2tjkZ1iGcstdGvok8DpQSBZI5c8HpOiifW7jWMfHw5GH9vn4blO26q.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="My ex’s ex and I disagreed a lot, but we loved each other. Here we are pretending to fight." data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/286kHln2CI2tjkZ1iGcstdGvok8DpQSBZI5c8HpOiifW7jWMfHw5GH9vn4blO26q.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">My ex’s ex and I disagreed a lot, but we loved each other. Here we are pretending to fight.</figcaption></figure>My ex’s ex and I disagreed a lot, but we loved each other. Here we are pretending to fight.Ten years ago, I weighed 335 lbs and walking was extremely difficult. But when I started Weight Watchers, I forced myself to wake at 5am every morning and take a walk. &nbsp;Every step was painful, but how dare I complain? Thoughts of soldiers coming home without legs and the excruciating pain they must surely endure kept me motivated enough to push beyond my own pain and accomplish my goal. It was the gratitude of having healthy legs that helped me lose over 75 lbs in a year.<figure id="figure-nmg6fvu89jmkdwyp3n"><img id="nmg6fvu89jmkdwyp3n" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/7J4NXDXFgDwBmGYwouD5dfBSnQg15FQNwqZtqm27BHzojwo81x9zZpcLIAFuffGV.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="After losing a bunch of weight, I was able to walk in the Redwoods" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null" data-fullWidth="false"/><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">After losing a bunch of weight, I was able to walk in the Redwoods</figcaption></figure>When my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, I prayed that when her time came, she would be taken quickly and completely, minimizing any suffering she might have and reuniting her with all who loved her. I am grateful that a 2-hour visit to the hospital for pain turned into an untreatable cancer that would steal her away in just 2 weeks.<figure id="figure-n63iudmyc6mkdx03zm"><img id="n63iudmyc6mkdx03zm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3b12V67hbN42rMJnlZUgmCItB9MOyYLRl7Olc6baXK43BxZU6MpEjF0mycVhMmfK.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 35%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Mom at my sister’s bridal BBQ" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="35%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3b12V67hbN42rMJnlZUgmCItB9MOyYLRl7Olc6baXK43BxZU6MpEjF0mycVhMmfK.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 35%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Mom at my sister’s bridal BBQ</figcaption></figure>Sam and I enjoy watching Master Chef, but last week it occurred to me that while we were intrigued over the placement of a flower petal on a steak, people all over the world are struggling to find enough food to sustain themselves and their families. &nbsp;How fucking privileged am I? &nbsp;Sometimes gratitude sneaks up on you in moments of deep shame.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-t1nhvjad2wmkdx25mb"><img id="t1nhvjad2wmkdx25mb" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20GsFqutBO2GCxUvyyjdwsSTFxv6iL18W0IQGSUkJp1jVJUqyeQoufPfwKHtaJbG.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Pexels" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20GsFqutBO2GCxUvyyjdwsSTFxv6iL18W0IQGSUkJp1jVJUqyeQoufPfwKHtaJbG.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Pexels</figcaption></figure>I’m a keen observer and follow the system of common sense that requires thinking and not judging. I also follow the Golden Rule that was shoved down my throat as a child. They, too, make common sense because human beings need each other whether we like it or not. Having money doesn’t make you rich and coveting power just means you’re weak, so I’m grateful to have a fair sense of humility in my life.Gratitude comes in all shapes and sizes, but today, as a 67-year-old woman inching toward finality, I know that Gratitude is the key to my happiness. &nbsp;<figure id="figure-ext7r9lx3omkdx574d"><img id="ext7r9lx3omkdx574d" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/14KYcMHWx02lhdizEA8RuY10j56K1ETofMXUelr4YNLi1SNZjogpqT85hxGFPNhQ.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Pexels" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/14KYcMHWx02lhdizEA8RuY10j56K1ETofMXUelr4YNLi1SNZjogpqT85hxGFPNhQ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Pexels</figcaption></figure>Copyright @ 2026 The Crone Network &nbsp; All rights reserved.

Staying Grounded in Humility

The Framing Effect - It’s a big deal

<figure id="figure-ibgn09iiemif2oia2" class=""><img id="ibgn09iiemif2oia2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/eP6gxJZR2jpjsX6fb5n2szOrfLbp38vsplItleJKv6My43I8aiDtKme5oBwblWZJ.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/eP6gxJZR2jpjsX6fb5n2szOrfLbp38vsplItleJKv6My43I8aiDtKme5oBwblWZJ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Do you realise that every breath we take ripples through the air, touching everything around us? &nbsp;Those are vibrations, little disturbances we create with every breath and movement are like ripples in the water when you toss in a stone, and the effects of what we say and do have enormous importance in creating a life of peace and contentment. Some argue it’s the invisible force that creates happiness, a concept worthy of consideration.First things first, what is the definition of vibration? It is defined as the periodic back and forth of particles in a medium that results in disturbances in equilibrium. Basically, it means that any movement disturbs everything until it evaporates into nothingness. At least that’s the way I understand it.When I turn on the faucet/tap at the kitchen sink, the water streams straight down, but when I lather up a glass and rinse it under the water, that stream of water changes direction and as I move the glass around, the water splashes on the bowls and utensils lying in the sink. I disturbed the water and it changed. It’s the same concept with vibrations.<h3>Free vibrations</h3>There are different types of vibrations. A “free vibration” is described as something that is momentarily disturbed then allowed to move freely. Think about holding a necklace in your palm, using your fingers to grab it by the clasp, then letting it drop in front of you. It would drop quickly, a momentary disturbance, and then it will start moving by itself, probably swinging left to right until it settles and stills.Another kind of vibration is one called “forced vibration”, and this type is usually found in machines where movement is forced by mechanisms. Your washer is a great example of this type. It swishes your clothes around the drum in rhythm, and then you have the joyous noise of the spin cycle disturbing the peace in your home.Looking at vibrations from a spiritual point of view, we have the proverb “you get back what you put out”, meaning that if you do good in the world, goodness will be returned to you and vice versa. If you’re a nasty woman, you’ll probably have a miserable life. Of course, this isn’t always the case but there is something to the science of vibration.<figure id="figure-1snacc6rt8mif2qsih"><img id="1snacc6rt8mif2qsih" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16WhDmVleyufTZCGK4gw0Za17R1sFW7HRorNf3uNLEGCM5sbmBAjsgYwOT6vmy8s.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Alikiso for Pexels" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16WhDmVleyufTZCGK4gw0Za17R1sFW7HRorNf3uNLEGCM5sbmBAjsgYwOT6vmy8s.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Alikiso for Pexels</figcaption></figure>We could think of vibrations as frequencies, and like changing the channel on the radio, we are greatly affected by the vibrations around us. When we listen to uplifting music, we feel better. We’re vibrating at a higher frequency because of the positive emotion of enjoyment. But if you’re a passenger in a car and your least favourite song in the world comes on the radio, your good vibes will turn to ick and you’ll want to change the frequency.How many times have you walked into a room and just felt something wasn’t right. The air feels heavy and we can feel like the fight or flight switch has been turned on in our brain. Sometimes it happens when we meet people. We get a sense that something just isn’t right and often take an immediate dislike to them. We say things like, “I don’t know what it is about her, but I get a funny feeling around her” and prefer to keep our distance. Before I knew my boss of some 25 years was a narcissist, I called him an “energy vampire” because whenever he was around, I felt drained and uneasy. I didn’t like it when he was in the office. Not one bit.<figure id="figure-commdll82lmif2sm60" class=""><img id="commdll82lmif2sm60" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18VXdk0ragYWDtz5wM3KLndWEerw7kGNcH6ydWU5FTdiGz6jjyNVEPA7uw1BjDXH.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18VXdk0ragYWDtz5wM3KLndWEerw7kGNcH6ydWU5FTdiGz6jjyNVEPA7uw1BjDXH.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Everything has a vibration, even light poles in the street. Imagine a flagpole on a windy day. It’s not just the flag that’s moving. The wind is disturbing that pole which then disturbs everything around it like the ripples brushing against reeds. And no sooner has the air settled, another breeze blows by and the vibrations start over again. They are never ending. Even my fingers on these keys are causing a disturbance and vibrations that wave through the warm air of The Cosy.<h3>Do good, get good</h3>When I consider the evidence of vibrations in nature and knowing that my good juju spills into the lives of the people around me, brushing off the adage of “do good, get good” doesn’t seem so silly. Here’s another example of how vibrations can change your life.When it came time for us to get serious about moving to Scotland, I spent a lot of time looking for places to live and fell in love with a traditional style cottage called a “gatehouse”. These are single level houses built at the entrance of huge walled estates. I wanted a place that was quiet and somewhat hidden, and spoke aloud, “I want cows on one side and sheep on the other”. &nbsp;It seems that I manifested exactly what I spoke because for the last 6 years, we have lived in a single-story gatehouse that has sheep in a couple fields and cows in another*. &nbsp;How did that happen? Were my hopes actually wishes? Was I praying for these things? Did I inadvertently cast a spell? &nbsp;Or was it just me sending vibrations into the universe with pure, hopeful intentions? I mean, it’s kind of weird that what I envisioned and vocalised can true.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-j3mmyq67ecmif2uahn"><img id="j3mmyq67ecmif2uahn" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bUsunSm9uLC6UvoIiPYgG45E0vPGRQiQ3eYEjyd1oNyp1Se5PZfAPy8Gs3ZgDZL.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bUsunSm9uLC6UvoIiPYgG45E0vPGRQiQ3eYEjyd1oNyp1Se5PZfAPy8Gs3ZgDZL.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Spirituality talks about energy, and quantum science supports the theory that everything is made of energy that vibrates at a “particular frequency”. &nbsp;From an emotional point of view, we vibrate at different energy levels.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; High frequency = Love, joy, gratitude, peace, compassion&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Low frequency = Fear, anger, resentment, anxiety, judging There are times when the life gets me really down, but I know that listening to music will lift my spirits. Other times, when I’m vibrating at a low frequency, sitting outside or talking a slow walk shifts my lousy depressed mood to one of feeling calmer, more focused, and comfort in knowing that everything will be alright. &nbsp;Here’s another way to look at vibrations and frequencies or energy.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The Law of Attraction - Like attracts like, so putting out &nbsp;good vibes brings back good vibes.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Our Wellbeing – Notice how you feel drained around certain &nbsp;people or situations, and when you’re around other people you feel at ease and able to be yourself.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Spiritual Growth – High vibrations bring growth and inner peace, especially when using focused practices like chanting, yoga, and meditation.<h3>Rippling good juju</h3>But how do we raise our vibrations to help us feel better, and ripple our good juju into the universe? Is there proof that changing our vibrations can actually change our lives? Here are some suggestions to think about bringing into your life. Helpful hint- Set an alarm on your phone to help you build practices into your daily routines.<h3>Practice gratitude – it can bring immediate results</h3>&nbsp; &nbsp;*Sit quietly in nature and appreciate the sights and sounds<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">&nbsp; &nbsp; *Make a daily ritual of giving thanks&nbsp; &nbsp; *Keep a journal of the good things in your life<h3>Create quiet time – 5 minutes, just 5 minutes</h3>&nbsp; &nbsp; *Relax while sitting on the toilet, close your eyes&nbsp; &nbsp; *Sit in your car and chill out<h3>Your circle – control your influences</h3>&nbsp; &nbsp; *You are the centre of your world&nbsp; &nbsp; *Keep happy people and uplifting music nearby&nbsp; &nbsp; *Spend time outdoors without devices&nbsp; &nbsp; *Volunteer in your community<h3>Affirmations – words vibrate so watch how your speak to yourself</h3>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*Mini pep talks. “There’s nothing you can’t handle. You got this!”&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*Use famous quotes as reinforcements. “You is kind. You is smart. You is important.”1&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*Look closely and deeply in the mirror and smile at yourself!&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;* With good intentions, ask humbly for the things you want and believe you’re worthy of receiving them.<h3>Clear the way</h3>Take sea salt baths to dispel negative energy· &nbsp; Sage your home to clear bad juju**· &nbsp; Envision a beam of white light surrounding you· &nbsp; Hang bells on the inside of doors leading to the outside<figure id="figure-842q9ct9kdmif2x2i1"><img id="842q9ct9kdmif2x2i1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34Z4g0aw7KeCbm217XnXz0aq6rlxPXG16ZXQ9tda2qmZpzhoYc3IiTd3Za6NaEuy.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="One of the bells on my antique Swiss style bells that hang inside The Cosy door. I believe bells clear the air of negative energy and hang on the inside of all my outside doors. I often give them as housewarming gifts." data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34Z4g0aw7KeCbm217XnXz0aq6rlxPXG16ZXQ9tda2qmZpzhoYc3IiTd3Za6NaEuy.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">One of the bells on my antique Swiss style bells that hang inside The Cosy door. I believe bells clear the air of negative energy and hang on the inside of all my outside doors. I often give them as housewarming gifts.</figcaption></figure>One of the bells on my antique Swiss style bells that hang inside The Cosy door. I believe bells clear the air of negative energy and hang on the inside of all my outside doors. I often give them as housewarming gifts.The Jem Foundation, a US based charity focused on ending youth suicide, published an article called The Influence of Vibration and Frequency on Mental and Physical Health2 (March 2025). The piece mentions that food items can vibrate at higher frequencies and suggest foods like organic fruits and vegetables which can increase good cellular vibrations, while processed foods tend to reduce them.<h3>Barefoot technology</h3>Earthing or grounding is another practice you can use to increase good juju. This can be done whilst standing barefoot on a natural surface such as sand, grass, or even a tree stump. The exchange of positive and negative ions between our bodies and the Earth are scientifically proven to help us feel better. Studies show visible changes to the body with reduced inflammation and increased immunity. Plus, feeling better is a straight line to a happier mojo. (see additional reading below)<figure id="figure-drn6sruwrmif2z0kp"><img id="drn6sruwrmif2z0kp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17fa68VVgxgC2qI9dDNDAOoW2KYINLy3MTC9YHzRereAUvLB2b5Oyvkz7bgKTJXY.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="My Flintstone feet in our back yard" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17fa68VVgxgC2qI9dDNDAOoW2KYINLy3MTC9YHzRereAUvLB2b5Oyvkz7bgKTJXY.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">My Flintstone feet in our back yard</figcaption></figure> There are lots of ways to boost our good vibrations, but nature has ensured that rules are always going to be broken. We probably know someone who’s worked hard and helped others but still suffer in ways that don’t seem fair. But absorbing all the good juju we can find in our everyday lives will raise our vibrations and ripple positivity into the world, maybe helping those people who can’t seem to get a break.I guess the moral of this story about vibrations is this…In with the good shit, out with the bad shit.* Our farmer recently sold his herd because it became too difficult for them during the winter months.** There is scientific proof that sage can purify the air, but there is a particular way to “sage your house” that should be followed to avoid bringing negativity into your home instead of dispelling it. This is the method I trust. Although it’s a bit too witchy for my taste, their methods are reliable and detailed.<a data-mce-href="https://www.wicca-spirituality.com/house-cleansing-ritual.html" href="https://www.wicca-spirituality.com/house-cleansing-ritual.html">https://www.wicca-spirituality.com/house-cleansing-ritual.html</a><h3>Additional reading</h3>Spiritual vibrations<a data-mce-href="https://wisdomofthespirit.com/the-spiritual-meaning-of-vibration/" href="https://wisdomofthespirit.com/the-spiritual-meaning-of-vibration/">https://wisdomofthespirit.com/the-spiritual-meaning-of-vibration/</a>Grounding/Earthing<a data-mce-href="https://begrounded.co.uk/is-grounding-scientifically-proven/" href="https://begrounded.co.uk/is-grounding-scientifically-proven/">https://begrounded.co.uk/is-grounding-scientifically-proven/</a>Citations1Aibileen Clark to May Mobley in The Help. Kathryn Stockett – 20092 https://thejemfoundation.com/the-influence-of-vibration-and-frequency-on-mental-and-physical-health/

Ripples and Vibes

For years I’ve been hearing older women talk about feeling invisible in society today. At first, I excused this feeling as something that applied to other older women, but the more I investigated the phenomena the more I discovered how wrong I was to think in such narrow terms.&nbsp;A 2023 UK research survey of 158 women over the age of 50, found that they recognised different types of feeling socially invisible. “Their perceived invisibility took five forms: (a) being under-seen/mis-seen in the media; (b) being mis-seen as objects of sexual undesirability; (c) being “ignored” in consumer, social, and public spaces; (d) being “grandmotherized,” that is, seen only through the lens of (often incorrectly) presumed grandmotherhood; (e) being patronized and erroneously assumed to be incompetent.”1Let’s break this survey down so we have a better understanding of how some women feel about invisibility.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-2tzq6se0hmhpd2pao"><img id="2tzq6se0hmhpd2pao" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8gXEOIgknibR4Sk2LghbLDZIQhJXG64kfNv3gQEuZJRxG5CNNvHTJQqbY0ggSN8J.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="&nbsp; Feeling unseen in the media" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8gXEOIgknibR4Sk2LghbLDZIQhJXG64kfNv3gQEuZJRxG5CNNvHTJQqbY0ggSN8J.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">&nbsp; Feeling unseen in the media</figcaption></figure><h3>Where the hell are we?</h3><ul><li>Survey point A &nbsp; &nbsp; </li></ul>In my work, I need photos of older women for The Crone Network, but it’s hard to find real women and not perfectly styled senior models. Not only that, but most of the available images are of white women and our goal is to feature all women in their glorious sizes, shapes, and colours.In TV and film, there are loads of older men cast in major roles, but where are the older women? &nbsp;And how many runway models are women over the age of 50? &nbsp;Not having media representation contributes to the underfunding of projects that benefit older women. If our “market” isn’t seen, we’re not getting the attention we need and deserve.<figure id="figure-0tgkrxdfzhmhpd4ps0" class=""><img id="0tgkrxdfzhmhpd4ps0" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6HXepri3vxROzBbniuK9V08piDyKoas1DiobSxOFaUC1xNjGGcn1uUnDRwhLv5YD.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6HXepri3vxROzBbniuK9V08piDyKoas1DiobSxOFaUC1xNjGGcn1uUnDRwhLv5YD.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Feeling sexually undesirable</h3><ul><li>Survey point B</li></ul>After menopause, lots of women lose their interest in sex. The thought of having sex is more of a turn-off than a turn-on, and we often feel less attractive because our bodies have changed. &nbsp;I used to have full, perky breasts, but now I’ve just got the bags they came in, and I’m ok with that. Everything wilts sooner or later.Some older women report hearing negative remarks when out with friends. Comments like, “Who’d want to shag that old slapper?”, or “She’s desperate so I’ll give her a quickie” can be incredibly hurtful to a woman and lead to crippling social isolation.<figure id="figure-web6g6vtdmhpd629r"><img id="web6g6vtdmhpd629r" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17hHMXm0N2B2s0xcA3jApJsuOsgDeIsO7fHazS9YAN0HOe89cjdohReTZ8mQMMQY.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17hHMXm0N2B2s0xcA3jApJsuOsgDeIsO7fHazS9YAN0HOe89cjdohReTZ8mQMMQY.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Being socially ignored</h3>Survey point CInvisible Women Syndrome is not a recognised condition, but it is described as a phenomenon by which older women are often dismissed and devalued. With society’s emphasis on youth and beauty, older women can be overlooked, like not getting served at a busy pub. It feels like, if we’re no longer fertile or beautiful, we’re just discarded like an old sweater that sits in the back of the closet - you love it, but it’s too beat up to wear anymore. &nbsp;&nbsp;Telling a woman that she “looks good for her age” implies that there’s something wrong with being her age. One woman reported waiting for a train and being shoved aside by a young person who said, “You people shouldn’t be here this time of morning, people need to get to work.” They want to push us out of the way and ignore us.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-hiatqnyog8mhpd6v5z"><img id="hiatqnyog8mhpd6v5z" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16um21nxcrzCAsDf69En3S8LNOWjf2BQw4Os9hW8MYvsRMlaJKefGIfq1ttqIIwl.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 0%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="0%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16um21nxcrzCAsDf69En3S8LNOWjf2BQw4Os9hW8MYvsRMlaJKefGIfq1ttqIIwl.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 0%;"></figure><h3>We’re all just grandmothers</h3><ul><li>Survey point D</li></ul>Older women are often stereotyped as grannies who are eager to watch the kids. There is often an expectation that we’ll be there for our family, whether in a care giving role or as a babysitter. And if you say no thanks, you’re cast as a mean old hag or told that you’re being selfish in your old age.People ask questions like, “how many grandchildren do you have?” which implies that our only purpose in life was to procreate. We are told we shouldn’t wear skirts above the knee or low-cut blouses. We’re supposed to knit and bake and be happy with that.<figure id="figure-2vbvkpcg7fmhpd7smf"><img id="2vbvkpcg7fmhpd7smf" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6tAmjW2LP0xBZxLWnaayjbLMV57OLdDsqM80dyrWcorIZIkuss2ItU4vjcKLI1DB.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6tAmjW2LP0xBZxLWnaayjbLMV57OLdDsqM80dyrWcorIZIkuss2ItU4vjcKLI1DB.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Being considered feeble minded</h3><ul><li>Survey point E</li></ul>Some folks mistake older women as being weak and unable. They can treat us like we’re frail creatures who can’t do for ourselves. Plus, we deal with patronising terms like “Young lady” and questions like, “Can you use a computer, dear?”For me, being offended is a choice so let them say what they want, I’ll shrug off any attempt to patronise me. But we older gals don’t like being spoken to as if we were toddlers, and when the spirit moves us, we’ll snap back with a witty, harsh response and a big sarcastic smile. <h3>It’s a good and bad thing</h3>But feeling invisible isn’t just about how society treats older women because some of us have learned that not being seen is a good thing. When our surroundings are confusing or unsettled, it’s safer to stay in the background and not use our voices when we perceive conflict or danger.A revealing article by Dolores Mosquera for the European Society for Trauma &amp; Dissociation called “The Effects of Feeling Invisible”3 (March 2018), the author points out that invisibility can be protection for some but can have shattering results for others. &nbsp;The article suggests 4 different ways that we can feel invisible.<ul><li>When - you are not seen, “nothingness”</li></ul>It can feel like no one notices or cares about you. Many times, this can be traced back to childhood when caregivers were too busy or were unable to nurture a child in the way it needs. This type of invisibility can lead to being taken advantage of by the likes of romance scammers and manipulators.<ul><li>When - what is done to you is not seen by others</li></ul>In the article, this type of invisibility is referred to as “partial blindness”. This usually occurs when a child is taken care of in one way, but things that may be happening to them are ignored by others. A prime example of this is child sexual abuse at home - one parent is the abuser, and the other doesn’t know or refuses to see.<ul><li>When – you try not to be seen because it’s dangerous</li></ul>Sometimes we feel it’s better to hide than be visible. Again, this can start during childhood but if we sense that something bad could happen, we might stay in the background and not speak out despite our desire to say what’s on our mind. Being unseen can keep you safe.<ul><li>When – you try not to be seen because everyone is overwhelmed</li></ul>If we sense those around us are overwhelmed with responsibility or worry, we tend to hold ourselves back so we’re not adding to their burden. This can lead to a sense of “not getting in the way” which can undermine our own wellbeing. We learn not to ask for what we want or need.<figure id="figure-dbehcl7m5fmhpd9yy9"><img id="dbehcl7m5fmhpd9yy9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31KgJHvLQbG3Ssk7hRXTCEHT5Jq61KMtHuGmU2DqdnwAbfXWw4YPJxppgR2obAL3.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31KgJHvLQbG3Ssk7hRXTCEHT5Jq61KMtHuGmU2DqdnwAbfXWw4YPJxppgR2obAL3.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Stepping out from the shadows</h3>It’s clear how feeling unseen can affect our overall wellbeing, so what can we do about it? &nbsp;Here are some ideas on how to improve our visibility and start being seen again. They might not work for everybody, but finding an outlet to plug into usually reaps some great benefits.<ul><li>Be courageous</li></ul>Tomorrow literally never comes, so think about how you can boost your bravery today and kick fear’s ass. &nbsp;If you want to do or say something, ask yourself why you’re holding back and then give yourself a pep talk. Could it really be as bad as you imagine?&nbsp;<ul><li>Accept that you’re not everybody’s cup of tea</li></ul>We’re all different and not everybody is going to like you. That’s perfectly ok because there’s probably people you don’t like. As long as we’re nice to each other, not getting along is acceptable with a small smile and just a wee bit of tolerance. If you’re a “too much” woman like me, be yourself and let them adjust. Their opinion is not your problem.<ul><li>Stop apologising for being yourself</li></ul>Women apologise for their weight, for how they’re dressed, if their hair is messed up. We say sorry for crying, for overcooking dinner, for being in a bad mood. Just stop. If you owe someone apology for a misstep, then you should say you’re sorry, but you don’t need to apologise for just being yourself.<ul><li>Get involved</li></ul>The best way to be seen is to put yourself out there. This could be volunteering for a local charity, joining an online club, making time to visit senior care facilities to say “Hi, how are you today?” &nbsp;Comment on those social media posts, offer your opinion on a topic that matters to you. Show up for yourself.There are women like me who are loud and feisty, and there are women who are quiet and fierce like my sister. She is an introverted person, and I admire how she stands in the shadows and observes. She doesn’t say much, unless there’s juicy gossip. Her voice is in her church and in her community work. That’s how she makes herself visible. My voice comes out of my fingertips on a small iMac keyboard.&nbsp;There is no right or wrong way to be seen. The shy Crone who writes a powerful letter to the media is just as powerful as one with a megaphone and a flower in her hair.We have enormous, untapped value and our voices matter. &nbsp;So let’s pound on the desk and make some friggin’ noise!!!We are here!We will be seen!We need representation!And we are not going away! ﻿1 Westwood, S. (2023). “It’s the not being seen that is most tiresome”: Older women, invisibility and social (in)justice. Journal of Women &amp; Aging, 35(6), 557–572. https://doi.org/10.1080/08952841.2023.21976582 https://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/houseofwellness/do-you-have-invisible-woman-syndrome/news-story/71bdc0c7199a54f24a9ddafb6de1d8b83 https://intra-tp.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/The-effects-of-being-invisible.pdf Copyright ©️ 2025 The Crone Network &nbsp;All rights reserved.&nbsp;

Unseen

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? My ambitions changed as I got older and experience so many different influences. I was probably about 7 or 8 when I wanted to be a majorette, you know, the girl in the marching band twirling &nbsp; a baton. My mom even sent me to baton lessons, encouraging me to dream.Dad once said I should be a lawyer because I like to argue, but it was just a combination of curiosity and a rebellious nature that made me question everything. I never wanted to be an astronaut, but I did think about acting or teaching, both of which would have suited me well. There was one night while I was eating dinner with my family, that I announced my intent to become a social worker with a specialty in adolescent kids, but my dad snapped, “There ain’t no goddamn money in that.” I can still feel my heart sinking as his words deflated my spirit. My real passion, however, was music and that’s why I applied to the US Air Force when I was 17, hoping to become a member of the USAF band.<figure id="figure-08cpsced58mhw1zdl5"><img id="08cpsced58mhw1zdl5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23OTSrgrHEJwodfNtvWKRT2qntxgEtXVWRH06CSAJkA4COv4q620yrsRAFdq5xLK.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo of my 5th grade report card. I was 10-11 years old" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23OTSrgrHEJwodfNtvWKRT2qntxgEtXVWRH06CSAJkA4COv4q620yrsRAFdq5xLK.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo of my 5th grade report card. I was 10-11 years old</figcaption></figure><h3>What we want vs what we get</h3>Of course, what we want and what we get are often very different things. I quit high school and decided to join the US Air Force, but the recruiter told me to lose 20 lbs which I never did. Then I went and did something stupid and lied to my parents who then kicked me out of the house. &nbsp;I went to live with a friend who took me down a long and dangerous road. Looking back though, I was just another troubled teen from a troubled family who got into trouble, and before long, I was married and raising a family. I never made it into the Air Force and never went to college.After leaving my job of nearly 40 years, I was given 6 months unemployment compensation and a free 9-month set of courses at our local community college. I was 60 years old and grateful for this long-awaited chance at higher education and decided that graphic design would be something I’d enjoy. If I was any good at design, I fancied I could work freelance in my old age to help subsidise my income. I sucked at web coding, did well with desktop publishing, and excelled in journalism which was an optional free course. And I made the Dean’s List; a prestigious listing of the top 10% of students! Some of my family suggested I should skip the graduation ceremony because “it’s mostly kids, won’t you be embarrassed? &nbsp;Hell no I’m not going to be embarrassed! &nbsp;I earned that right and I’m taking it. And though college was challenging, it was just what I needed to get myself out of a deep depression. I found structure and purpose again.<figure id="figure-vzqjnvsii8mhw21gdm"><img id="vzqjnvsii8mhw21gdm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/293t91wF2ACyFuuCX1SxlLkmfkYJOSAtAae6imQPbCxnNPhtT2GRxwxygdaLvwm8.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/293t91wF2ACyFuuCX1SxlLkmfkYJOSAtAae6imQPbCxnNPhtT2GRxwxygdaLvwm8.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Sometimes I wonder what could have been, how my life would be different if my childhood ambitions had come true. Would I be a public defender or a prosecutor? What’s the “age out” for majorettes these days? I would have been a great teacher, and I never lost my musical ability. &nbsp;Without an instrument to play, my music is a Friday night with a couple of gin and tonics in The Cosy. I put on my Bose headphones and pound on my desk with the drums or play the air bass guitar. I can belt out the blues just as well Koko Taylor!As I roam the internet looking for interesting conversation, I hear women my age talk about feeling invisible and not having a purpose or direction in their lives. I’ve been there and it sucks. But one of the things that helped me was going to college. The Crone NetworkÒ wants to provide you the opportunity to go to college for free, online and on your own terms. You don’t need to apply for a degree, but hopefully by offering these links to free education, you’ll be inspired by my story and want something new for yourself. &nbsp;Most of these courses are free so you can browse for subjects that interest you and learn as much as you want.<figure id="figure-6q07du0v8kmhw220ll"><img id="6q07du0v8kmhw220ll" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/284JkkR084QR2BJSgouIltHdCgNpvAzY7fUFtsN1vuSveBAA51EtRBUvcjkJTvSH.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to rdne for Pexels" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/284JkkR084QR2BJSgouIltHdCgNpvAzY7fUFtsN1vuSveBAA51EtRBUvcjkJTvSH.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to rdne for Pexels</figcaption></figure>The list below contains links that take you directly to free online college courses. There are plenty of subjects to choose from, and whether you’re looking to learn and earn, or you’re just curious about a particular topic, knowledge is an invaluable life tool and something that can never be taken from you. Most of these are completely free but check each course for all the details.If you decide to jump into an online college, please let us know what you’re going to study so we can support and learn from you. We’re all in this together.The Crone Network hopes you find this information useful.<figure id="figure-fn0s4pfmmmhw26hyr"><img id="fn0s4pfmmmhw26hyr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38o9EShvucuPXKlApHKhS6zyqFWx1meLNbdkVEx602rzeUFa3826hXyZRxhsZoYP.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Feeling proud on graduation day" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38o9EShvucuPXKlApHKhS6zyqFWx1meLNbdkVEx602rzeUFa3826hXyZRxhsZoYP.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Feeling proud on graduation day</figcaption></figure> <h2>Free college courses </h2>Stanford University <a href="https://online.stanford.edu/free-courses" data-mce-href="https://online.stanford.edu/free-courses">https://online.stanford.edu/free-courses</a> Harvard University <a href="https://pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free?price%5B%5D=free&amp;page=2" data-mce-href="https://pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free?price%5B%5D=free&amp;page=2">https://pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free?price%5B%5D=free&amp;page=2</a> MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) <a href="https://pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free?price%5B%5D=free&amp;page=2" data-mce-href="https://pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free?price%5B%5D=free&amp;page=2">https://pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free?price%5B%5D=free&amp;page=2</a> University of Glasgow <a href="https://www.gla.ac.uk/study/free-online-courses/" data-mce-href="https://www.gla.ac.uk/study/free-online-courses/">https://www.gla.ac.uk/study/free-online-courses/</a> Coursera <a href="https://www.coursera.org/courses?query=freewww.thecronenetwork.org" data-mce-href="https://www.coursera.org/courses?query=freewww.thecronenetwork.org">https://www.coursera.org/courses?query=freewww.thecronenetwork.org </a> THE CRONE NETWORK Email: <a data-mce-href="mailto:contact@thecronenetwork.org" href="mailto:contact@thecronenetwork.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">contact@thecronenetwork.org</a>

Storytelling

Amateur "Ham" Radio - Just In Case

Staying Grounded in Humility

The Framing Effect - It’s a big deal

Ripples and Vibes

Unseen

Never too old to learn