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”
The plum contains a poison called “amygdalin.” This poison is found not only in plums but also in other drupes. The poison “amygdalin” is a combination of two glucose molecules. When these glucose molecules are divided, they turn into “prunasin,” which is more prevalent in other plants. When an insect attacks a plant, it breaks the bond with glucose, turning it into “mandelonitrile” and quickly converting it into “benzaldehyde” and “hydrocyanic acid (HCN)” once more. HCN is a respiratory poison, and benzaldehyde is a unique fragrance component of cherries, bitter almonds, and pistachios. This dangerous ingredient is also present in green tea, but it appears only in small amounts, so it does not cause any problems when consumed. It is an ironic phenomenon in which by-products essential for survival kill other living beings. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”