For some people, Buddhism and Greco-Roman wrestling could be considered contradictory in nature.

While the Bhuddas teachings emphasise calmness and inner peace, wrestling is one of the most abrasive and confrontational sports on the Olympic programme.

But for 22-year-old Netherlands grappler, Tyrone Sterkenburg, its the perfect match.

**My mum is a Buddhist from Thailand and when I was 16 years old, I became a monk for the summer. That greatly improved my mental focus and my spirituality, Sterkenberg, who competes in the 97kg category, told Olympics.com from the 2023 World Wrestling Championships in Belgrade, Serbia.

**It showed me a whole new side of life because I was used to training two times a week, studying and being busy all the time. And then all of a sudden at the monastery I couldnt eat, run or do fast movements.

I used to have rage before my matches and I was always so nervous. But now I actually close my eyes and try to meditate a little bit for the match, to have a little bit more focus and calmness.

Read more:
Meet Tyrone Sterkenburg: Greco-Roman wrestler, monk, model, and influencer - Olympics

Japan Art and Bleak Midwinter: Buddhist Monk

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Two stunning art pieces by the contemporary Japanese artist Sawako Utsumi fuse a stunning landscape with a wandering Buddhist monk in the bleak midwinter. Indeed, the religious angle, be it Buddhism, Christianity, or Shintoism, are themes that pop up often in her delightful art.

In the above art piece, a Buddhist monk is on his way to a distant Buddhist temple. Ice, snow, and a freezing wind abound. However, it is of little concern to the Buddhist monk, for holy scriptures await.

The two art pieces are titledBleak Midwinter and the Buddhist Tree of LifeandStunning Bleak Midwinter of Northern Japan.

Interestingly, the Buddhist tree of life is singular in both art pieces. However, one art piece focuses on the Buddhist monk fighting the wintery conditions while the other is focused on a stunning landscape.

Despite this, the singular tree is symbolic in both art pieces.

The holy Buddhist monk Nichiren (1222-1282) said:Life in this world is limited. Never be in the least bit afraid!

Overall, the Buddhist tree of life and nature are interwoven seen and unseen. Henceforth, the mystery of life through the prism of art.

https://fineartamerica.com/featured/bleak-midwinter-and-the-buddhist-tree-of-life-sawako-utsumi.html

https://fineartamerica.com/featured/stunning-bleak-midwinter-art-of-northern-japan-sawako-utsumi.html

http://fineartamerica.com/profiles/sawako-utsumi.html Sawako Utsumi and where you can buy her art, postcards, bags, and other products. Also, individuals can contact her for individual requests.

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Japan Art and Bleak Midwinter: Buddhist Monk Modern Tokyo Times - Modern Tokyo Times

Delve into the teachings of Robert Waldinger, a psychiatrist and Zen priest, as he explores the essence of Zen Buddhism.

Waldinger, who directs the long-running Harvard Study of Adult Development, discusses how Zen can help people discover the transformative power of impermanence, mindfulness, and the art of relieving suffering. He shares practical wisdom on cultivating loving-kindness, maintaining a beginners mind, and fostering fulfilling relationships.

Whether youre seeking inner peace or navigating relationships, Waldinger offers practical guidance for a more fulfilling existence.

ROBERT WALDINGER: Zen emphasizes community. It's called 'Sangha' in the Buddhist language, and it's really the idea that we practice learning about ourselves and each other by being in relationships with each other, both during meditation sessions and out there in the world.

I am a Zen practitioner. I'm actually a Rshi, a Zen Master. It's a big part of my life, and it is an enormous benefit in terms of how I think about my own life, other people's lives, how I think about my research, and how I think about working with patients.

I would rate the concept of impermanence as, number one, as the greatest hit of Zen Buddhism. Basically, the idea of everything constantly changing. There's nothing to hold onto in the deepest sense.

And that, on the one hand, that can be scary; on the other hand, it can be an enormous relief because we tell ourselves so many stories about who we are, and who we're supposed to be, and how the world is supposed to be, and when we really know the truth of impermanence, we let a lot of that go.

Once we realize that everything is always changing, it helps us be more compassionate to other people because we realize that they are also dealing with all the complexities of a self and a world that's constantly changing.

The Four Noble Truths are perhaps the most iconic teachings of the Buddha. They start with the Buddhist statement. Now, it's often said that, "The Buddha was teaching that you could get to a point where you never suffer anymore." Zen does not teach that.

Rather, what we can do is learn to be with what's unsatisfactory in life, learn to be with unhappiness, even be with pain in a way that makes it more bearable, in a way that doesn't layer on the optional suffering being the stories we tell about how unfair it all is.

For example, that I have back pain or how unfair it is that I've got a cold todaythat all of these things are workable. It makes me a little less likely to blame other people for what's going on in me, and that can be hugely helpful.

When we talk about harmony in relationships. The best definition I know of mindfulness is simple: So right now, for me, that's talking with you. That's the feel of the chair on my back. It's the feel of the air on my skin.

You can work on your mindfulness right this moment, by simply paying attention to whatever stimuli are reaching you. It might be your heartbeat, it might be your breath, it might be the sound of the fan in the roomanything. And simply letting yourself be open and receive whatever is here right now. And you can do that in any moment.

Buddhism talks about the idea of attachment. It's really about holding on tightly to a fixed view of something. Zen teaches that unsatisfactoriness is always there in life, and that we do have preferences, but that what we can do is to insist less that the world be a certain way.

In other words, to insist less that the world be a certain way. I mean, think about in relationships, how much we try to insist that someone else be a certain way that we want them to be, and how much less we suffer if we let that go.

And just assume that that person is allowed to show up in the world as they are, and we are allowed to show up in the world as we are. So this idea of relieving suffering is in Zen, the idea of being able to face towards suffering, looking at it, and living with it in a way that hurts less.

There's a concept of Metta, loving-kindness, in Buddhism, and there are a couple of different ways that it's talked about. One is an explicit skill that we can cultivate. You can do a loving-kindness meditation where you think about another person and you say to yourself, "May you be happy, may you be at peace."

And you do that over and over again, and you come to feel differently about the other person, including about people you don't like very much or you're angry at. So there's that way of actively cultivating a skill.

There's another way, which is simply by becoming more and more aware of your own pain, your own anxious, angry thoughts, your own difficulties. Because what happens when we become more aware of that through meditation, for example, is that we become much more empathic toward other people.

And naturally, that kind of loving-kindness arises, where we see an angry person and say, "Oh, I wonder if that person is having a terrible day," rather than immediately reacting with our own anger. And so that's a different way to cultivate loving-kindness, but it happens pretty reliably through meditation.

And finally, there's a wonderful teaching in Zen about Beginner's Mind. The idea that we let go of all the stories we tell ourselves that we're so sure of. Having a beginner's mind really helps in relationships because it allows us to be curious, it allows us to say, "Okay, there's so much I don't know about this person, let me watch closely. Let me notice what I haven't seen before about this person. Let me find new ways to interact with this person."

And that brings a kind of freshness and openness to relationships that can otherwise easily get stale. Shunryu Suzuki was a Zen Master who had a saying that I love. And what he meant by that is when we can remain open to many possibilities, rather than being so sure that we know what's what, that we become open to surprise, open to new ways of experiencing ourselves and the world, that make us suffer a great deal less than when we are so-called experts.

And the older I get, and the more people call me an expert, the more aware I am of how little I know.

Excerpt from:
A Zen master's guide to crushing pain & unlocking peace - Big Think

Ani Zamba Chozom. From facebook.com

The widely respected Buddhist teacher Ani Zamba Chozom, one of the first Western female monastics to be fully ordained, has died after an extended illness. She was 75 years old.

According to statements from close friends and associates, Ani Zamba passed on 23 December at a hospital in Sao Paolo.

Ani Zamba was born Susan Dawn Belanda in London in 1948. Growing up, she suffered a serious illness that aroused within her a desire to dedicate her life to the benefit of others. In 1969, seeking answers to the suffering of life, she traveled to India, where she eventually began to study the Buddhadharma. She was subsequently able to travel widely, studying and practicing in several Buddhist traditions.

She received the Dharma name Jampa Chozom when the renowned scholar and meditation master Geshe Rabten ordained her as a monastic in Dharamsala in 1972. In 1975, she received full bhikshuni ordination in Hong Kong, and from 1978, she spent an extended period working at a drug rehabilitation center in Thailands Wat Thamkrabok.

Ani Zamba spent a total of nine years living in India and Nepal, where she received teachings from many great Gelugpa, Drukpa Kagyu, and Nyingma lamas. She studied and practiced under some of the most revered modern masters of Tibetan Buddhism, among them Khamtrul Rinpoche, Dungsey Thinley Norbu Rinpoche, Dudjom Rinpoche, Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche, Lama Wangdur, and Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche.

In 1983, Ani Zamba received full ordination again in South Korea, and was later given further ordinations in Taiwan and China. While living in Thailand from 197882, she met many great teachers from the Thai Forest Tradition of that time, while also working in a Khmer Rouge refugee camp and with child prostitution.

Ani Zambas work and travel would subsequently see her based in the Philippines, Hong Kongs Lamma Island, and the United States.

Eventually she settled in Brazil, where Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche had founded a Dharma center, becoming his representative in the north of the country. After Rinpoches death in 2002, she would go on to become an independent teacher with her own community of students, offering practical teachings in the Dzogchen tradition, especially on the direct observation of the nature of the mind, and establishing a retreat center.

Ani Zamba was widely lauded for her courage in the face of the numerous obstacles encountered by Western female monastics studying the Buddhadharma in Asia. Messages were posted widely online mourning her passing. Information on services and memorials are expected to be shared on social media.

In a message shared on Facebook, her close friend Ani Jinba said in part: Yesterday one of my oldest friends since the early seventies, British nun Ani Zamba (Jampa Chozom), passed away at a hospital in Brazil after a long illness. . . . Her passing is a great loss for the Dharma and she will be missed by many, may the blessings of her great masters continue to guide her . . .

Ani Zamba(Facebook)

The Life Story of Ani Zamba Chozom: Part Two Meeting Lama Yeshe The Life Story of Ani Zamba Chozom: Part Three Ordination, First Retreat, and First Teaching The Life Story of Ani Zamba Chozom: Part Four Finding the Nyingma Lineage The Life Story of Ani Zamba Chozom: Part Five Dzogchen and Meeting Her Teachers The Life Story of Ani Zamba Chozom: Part Six Thailand, Burma, and Korea The Life Story of Ani Zamba Chozom: Part Seven From Korea to the Philippines to Hong Kong The Life Story of Ani Zamba Chozom: Part Eight Brazil

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Renowned Buddhist Nun and Teacher Ani Zamba Chozom Has Died - Buddhistdoor Global

In our non-stop, plugged-in world, the quest for inner peace can feel like an elusive treasure hunt.

We often look to self-help gurus or wellness retreats, but what if I told you that the path to tranquility has been mapped out for centuries?

Thats right, centuries.

Buddhist philosophy offers timeless insights on finding harmony within, and its not as out of reach as you might think.

Let me level with you I used to roll my eyes at the idea of inner peace. It seemed like a lofty concept reserved for monks and yogis.

But then, I took a deep dive into Buddhist teachings and realized its not about escaping lifes hustle and bustle; its about navigating it with a calmer, more centered mindset.

Ready to find out how?

Lets explore together seven Buddhist-inspired ways to quiet the noise and cultivate a sense of serenity that sticks with you.

And dont worry, you wont need to meditate for hours on end or renounce your worldly possessions.

Its all about simple shifts that can lead to profound changes in your everyday life.

Ever caught yourself zoning out during a conversation or mindlessly scrolling through your phone? Weve all been there.

In Buddhist philosophy, mindfulness is the antidote to this autopilot mode.

Its about being fully present in the moment, aware of where we are and what were doing, without getting overly reactive or overwhelmed by whats going on around us.

Heres the kicker mindfulness isnt as daunting as it sounds. It starts with small steps.

Try this: focus on your breath for a minute or two. Feel the air moving in and out of your lungs, the rise and fall of your chest. When thoughts intrude and they will gently guide your attention back to your breathing.

This simple practice can be a gateway to a more mindful way of living.

By weaving mindfulness into our daily activities like savoring our morning coffee or truly listening when someone speaks we can start to find peace amid the chaos. Its about enjoying the journey, not just racing to the destination.

So next time you eat a meal, pay attention to each bite, the flavors, textures, and sensations. You might just find joy in the most ordinary experiences.

Mindfulness opens our eyes to the present, and this awareness naturally leads us to let go of attachment. As we become more present, we begin to see the impermanence in our attachments and learn to release our grip on them

This one hit me like a ton of bricks.

Attachment, in the Buddhist sense, isnt just about your collection of vintage stamps or your favorite coffee mug. Its a deep-seated habit of clinging to things, people, and experiences, creating a cycle of desire and dissatisfaction.

I remember when I clung desperately to a relationship that had run its course.

The fear of being alone was paralyzing. But heres what I learned: holding on was like tightly gripping a handful of sand the harder I tried to keep it, the more it slipped through my fingers.

When I finally let go, it felt like taking a deep breath after being underwater for too long.

The practice of non-attachment doesnt mean you stop caring. It means you learn to love freely without imposing conditions or expectations that can lead to disappointment. Its about appreciating what you have while recognizing that everything is transient.

Now, when I embrace new relationships or opportunities, I remind myself to enjoy them for what they are in the moment, not what they might become or how long they might last. Its incredibly liberating and has been a cornerstone in my journey toward inner peace.

Letting go of attachment paves the way for cultivating compassion. As we detach from our rigid expectations and desires, our hearts open wider, allowing us to empathize more deeply with ourselves and others

Ill be honest, there was a time when my inner critic had a megaphone, and I was its favorite target.

But I soon realized that beating myself up got me nowhere. Thats when I stumbled upon the Buddhist practice of compassion, starting with oneself.

It was during one particularly rough week, juggling deadlines and personal drama, that I found myself spiraling into self-criticism. Youre not good enough, my mind hissed.

But then, I paused. I remembered reading about Metta, or loving-kindness meditation a practice of directing well-wishes to oneself and then to others.

So, I gave it a shot.

Sitting quietly, I repeated phrases like May I be happy, may I be healthy, may I be at peace, and something shifted. The gnawing anxiety eased. It wasnt an overnight transformation, but with time and practice, cultivating compassion became like a balm for my frazzled nerves.

And it didnt stop with me. Extending compassion outward, even to those who ruffled my feathers, changed the game. Its not about being a doormat; its about recognizing the shared human experience that just like me, others want to be happy and free from suffering.

This shift in perspective has been key in finding inner peace and navigating life with a gentler heart.

As our compassion grows, so does our patience. Understanding and empathy teach us the value of waiting, of giving ourselves and others the time and space to grow and heal

I used to be the person tapping my foot impatiently in line, checking my watch every 30 seconds. If things didnt happen on my timeline, frustration bubbled up like a volcano.

Then, I encountered the Buddhist virtue of patience, and it was a game-changer.

Patience, in Buddhism, is not just about waiting without complaining; its about understanding the natural flow of life and our limited control over it. Its recognizing that our impatience often stems from a desire for instant gratification or an aversion to discomfort.

One summer, I decided to grow a garden. I planted seeds with high hopes for a bountiful harvest. Days turned into weeks, and my excitement waned as I saw no sign of life. It was a lesson in patience right there in the soil nature couldnt be rushed. Then one morning, tiny green shoots pushed through the earth, and I was reminded that growth takes time.

Applying this to life, I now approach challenges with a new mantra: This too shall pass.

Whether Im stuck in traffic or facing a delay in plans, I breathe and remind myself that getting worked up wont make things move any faster.

Learning to accept each moment as it comes, without the inner turmoil of impatience, has brought a sense of calm and acceptance that is truly peaceful.

Patience nurtures an understanding of lifes transient nature. As we learn to wait and watch, the truth of impermanence becomes clearer, teaching us the value of each fleeting moment

I was sifting through old photos the other day when I came across a picture of myself as a child, grinning ear to ear with an ice cream cone in hand. It struck me how much has changed since then not just my height or hairstyle, but everything.

Its a concept deeply rooted in Buddhist philosophy: impermanence, or anicca.

Nothing lasts forever. Seasons change, relationships evolve, and pain fades.

In Buddhism, recognizing the transient nature of life is essential for inner peace. Clinging to the way things wereor how we want them to beis like trying to hold onto a sunset; its beautiful but fleeting.

When I first learned that the atoms that make up our bodies are mostly empty space and are in a constant state of flux, it was both unsettling and enlightening. It reminded me of the ever-changing nature of existence.

Now, when I encounter change or loss, I try to see it through the lens of impermanence. Yes, it can be tough to let go, but theres also beauty in the ephemeral nature of life.

Embracing this truth has helped me appreciate the present and find peace in knowing that change is not just a part of lifeit is life.

With the understanding of impermanence, we start to find contentment in the simple things. We realize that the constant chase for more only leads to transient happiness, and simplicity offers a more enduring peace

Last year, I found myself overwhelmed by the clutter in my home. It wasnt just the physical stuff; my schedule was a tangled mess of commitments, and my mind buzzed with endless to-do lists.

It was then that I stumbled upon the Buddhist concept of simplicity, and it felt like a breath of fresh air.

Simplifying life is about more than cleaning out a closet or clearing a calendar. Its about stripping away the non-essential to make room for what truly matters.

For me, that meant reevaluating my priorities and learning to say no. It meant quiet evenings with a book instead of mindless scrolling, and heart-to-heart conversations instead of crowded gatherings.

This shift towards simplicity wasnt easy. I wrestled with the fear of missing out and the urge to stay busy.

But as I began to embrace a less cluttered life, I noticed a sense of contentment creeping in. The silence that once made me uneasy became a space for reflection and growth.

The beauty of simplicity is that it doesnt just create room in our closets and calendars; it creates space in our minds. In this space, I found peace that was both grounding and liberatinga sanctuary from the relentless pursuit of more. It turns out that sometimes, less really is more.

And as we embrace simplicity, we naturally gravitate towards reflection, a practice that fosters wisdom. In the quietude of a simpler life, we find the space to reflect, learn, and grow in understanding.

Theres a teaching in Buddhism about the two wings of a bird representing wisdom and compassion, both essential for the journey to enlightenment.

For me, the pursuit of wisdom has been the most pivotal in seeking inner peace.

Wisdom isnt just about knowledge; its about deep understanding and insight, especially into the nature of our own minds.

Each night, I carve out time for reflection, a quiet period to contemplate my actions and experiences of the day.

This practice isnt about self-judgment or rumination but rather observing patterns, learning from mistakes, and acknowledging growth. Its during these moments of stillness that Ive uncovered truths about myself and the world around me.

The most important thing to know is that wisdom is accessible to everyone. It doesnt require a library of texts or a guru to guide you; it starts with looking inward and asking questions.

Why do I react the way I do? What can this situation teach me?

The answers often come in whispers, in the space between thoughts, and they bring with them a tranquility that feels like coming home to yourself.

If these practices resonate with you, its a sign that youre on the path to cultivating inner peace. Remember, this isnt about perfection or a destination; its an ongoing journey of self-discovery and harmony.

Embracing these tenets from Buddhist philosophy doesnt require a radical life change but rather, a shift in perspective and intention. Its about finding contentment in the present and recognizing the transient nature of our worries and stresses.

Begin by incorporating these practices into your daily routine, whether its taking five minutes to meditate or simply pausing to breathe deeply during a hectic day. Each step is a stone on the path to tranquility.

Understanding that this is a personal process, be gentle with yourself as you explore these avenues to peace. Reflect on your progress, celebrate your growth, and remember that each moment is an opportunity to return to these principles.

As you move forward, may you find that with each mindful step, a sense of calm and clarity naturally unfolds within you. This is the essence of inner peace a serene landscape that exists within, waiting for you to visit whenever you seek refuge from the outer world.

Originally posted here:
7 ways to attain inner peace, based on Buddhist philosophy - Hack Spirit

For years, Ethereum developers have been hard at work on one of the network's gravest security risks: thousands of validators operate the second most valuable blockchain, but just a few of them have almost all of the power.

Every 12 seconds, a new block of transactions is added to Ethereum. Those blocks are added by validators, which could be companies, individuals or collectives that lock up, or "stake," at least 32 ETH (currently aboout $70,000 worth) in exchange for a steady yield.

Lido, the collective that is the biggest validator on Ethereum, controls 32% of all staked ETH. If this share grows by just a couple of percentage points creeping past the 33% threshold required to block a 67% supermajority of validators network outages or deliberate malfeasance at Lido could have massive ramifications for Ethereum as a whole.

This vulnerability stems from the "centralized" nature of most validators; virtually all validators are just individual computers (or servers) loaded with one of a few popular node-running softwares. If there are bugs in the software or if a computer falls offline or if the person operating a big validator decides to act dishonestly then the entire network might suffer.

Distributed validator technology, or DVT, aims to put these risks into the past. Projects that use the tech like Obol, SSV and Diva help validators spread their operations between several parties, ostensibly as a way to make validators more resilient and less subject to single points of failure.

DVT solutions have been talked about for a while, but even as some long-awaited DVT platforms are finally going live, their overall adoption remains low. By Obol's estimate, less than a single percentage point's worth of staked ETH is controlled by DVT-based validators.

In 2024, that could all change. Leaders in the DVT space are finally putting the finishing touches on their platforms, and Lido could soon transition some of its operations into the hands of distributed infrastructure.

This article is featured in the latest issue of The Protocol, our weekly newsletter exploring the tech behind crypto, one block at a time. Sign up here to get it in your inbox every Wednesday. Also please check out our weekly The Protocol podcast.

The big selling point of blockchain networks is that they are "decentralized." Ethereum's validator system which spreads power between parties according to how much ETH they stake is the main way it remains resilient to outages and stays "credibly neutral," meaning it's theoretically immune to the whims of companies or governments.

But just a few validators, including those run by Lido, have gradually amassed a lion's share of the power over the network.

Lido's market presence grants it a huge amount of sway over how transactions are added to the chain because validators ultimately choose which transactions are written to Ethereum and in what order.

Even more troublingly, should Lido or any other validator ever amass 33% of all staked ETH, it will have the ability to meddle with how the chain reaches consensus. If Lido goes offline or decides to attack the network once it passes this critical threshold, it could, in theory, put the brakes on all network activity.

The prospect of network attacks and unfair distribution of power have always loomed larger over Ethereum. The ecosystem has historically prided itself on operating with a relatively high degree of decentralization, and it shifted from a Bitcoin-esque mining system to its present-day staking regime in part to help further democratize control over the network.

But as certain stakers and Lido, in particular have amassed more and more control over the Etheruem network, DVT has been looked to as a possible saving grace.

"It all goes back to the ethos of Ethereum," said Alon Muroch, founder of DVT firm SSV, which offers a network that validator operators can use to split up control over their infrastructure. "People don't want to be dependent on a single entity. I think that ethos is very strong."

While no two DVT solutions are exactly alike, they generally work similarly, by splitting the "keys" to a given validator across several different nodes. A consensus of key holders needs to sign off on decisions over how DVT validators operate, and if one key holder goes offline, others can fill in to keep things running.

A benefit to this setup is the added resiliency.

"Today validators are single-engine planes. If a validator goes down, it's offline," said Brett Li, head of growth at Obol Labs, which is also building a network to distribute validators. With DVT, "It's redundancy. You can have two engines, and if one of the engines fails, you can still get where you need to go safely."

With product launches and testnets this year from Obol, Diva, SSV and others, long-simmering hopes for a more decentralized Ethereum validator network are finally nearing production.

In November, Lido took a first step toward transitioning to DVT with the introduction of its "Simple DVT Module." Lido takes deposits from users and distributes them across third-party validator operators. With the new DVT module, which is being tested in partnership with Obol and SSV, Lido's third-party validators can become decentralized blunting the ability for Lido, which ultimately controls its validators today, to exert undue pressure on them.

The ambitions for DVT operators don't end with Lido.

"If the milestone with Lido succeeds, then it's gonna be the standard for everyone, because Lido is the biggest," said Muroch." If Lido makes the move, then others will make the move."

It could take some time for Lido to transition its validators to DVT, or for wider infrastructure operators to feel comfortable adopting the technology. Validators run by big institutions might continue to run their validators fully in-house comfortable with the software and maintenance required to keep a validator node afloat, and reticent to adopt new tech that could impinge their flexibility.

But hobbyist "solo-stakers" and community-run collectives like Lido, which continue to account for a large overall proportion of all staked ETH, might soon embrace DVT as a result of its easy setup and ideological underpinnings.

"In two or three years you'll see hopefully between a third or half of validators running on DVT," Muroch estimated. Obol's Li offered a similar near-term prediction, and said that in the long-run he expects "80%" of validators to run on DVT-based infrastructure.

Correction (Dec. 21, 12:43 UTC): Corrects SSV founder Alon Muroch's name and title.

Read the rest here:

Lido Tests of 'Distributed Validator Technology' Portend 2024 Decentralization Push - CoinDesk

The PBS Foundation is opening applications for an initial $1 million in grants for research and development on Ethereum proposer-builder separation.

The non-profits pilot phase drew support from Coinbase, Consensys, Fenbushi Capital, Flashbots, Paradigm, the Uniswap Foundation and Vitalik Buterin.

Grants will be disbursed by a council. The council includes representatives from Blocknative, Consensys, the Ethereum Foundation and Flashbots, among others. The foundations grant lead is Eugene Leventhal from the research group Metagov.

Read more: For Ethereum rollups, dealing with data remains a bottleneck

First proposed by Ethereum founder Vitalik Buterin, proposer-builder separation (PBS) is the concept of separating proposers which submit transaction bundles to validators on a blockchain and builders, which organize the transactions in a specific order.

PBS represents an attempt at decentralization, as the combination of proposing and building gives well-heeled centralized mining pools a competitive advantage.

PBS first went into effect after Ethereums Merge to proof-of-stake. Now, the PBS Foundation aims to promote research and infrastructure to address some of the challenges the concept currently faces.

Notably, MEV-boost relays have become centralized since the Merge. Relayers operate between block builders and validators on maximal extractable value (MEV) boosted transactions, selecting blocks with the highest possible fees. Roughly 90% of transactions in the last 500 epochs, or roughly two days, made use of MEV-boost. Of MEV-boost transactions in the past 24 hours, roughly 97% have been handled by five relayers, according to relayscan.

Blocknative, once among those top relayers, discontinued its service in September, citing economic viability concerns. Relayers do not currently collect fees. Uri Klarman, CEO of bloXroute, which runs a large relayer, has advocated fee structures outside of public goods funding to incentivize more relayers to join the fray.

A spokesperson for the PBS Foundation said the grant funding could be used to fund relayers, with a particular emphasis on those who introduce novel designs for relaying.

The funding will also be focused on community and educational materials, data transparency on Ethereums mempool and blocks, and research on how PBS can be improved or even enshrined on both the primary network and on layer-2 networks.

Dont miss the next big story join ourfree daily newsletter.

See original here:

Buterin, Coinbase and more to fund Ethereum decentralization grants - Blockworks

In the evolving 'travelverse', where cutting-edge technology intersects with the timeless allure of exploration, the travel and hospitality industry stand at the cusp of a revolutionary shift. The integration of blockchain technology and Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) promises to redefine the landscape of travel experiences, loyalty programs, and the very essence of cultural interactions.

This short article delves into the opportunities presented by these technologies, drawing inspiration from an article of mine: Revolutionizing the Travel and Hospitality Industry with Blockchain and NFTs, published on Hospitality Net on 16 March 2023.

The core of travel lies in authentic experiences and cultural interactions. Blockchain technology, with its inherent data immutability and programmability, offers a unique platform to enhance these experiences without detracting from their authenticity.

Smart contracts, a pivotal element of blockchain, enable the automatic execution of agreements, ensuring reliability and efficiency in travel arrangements. This technological advancement can streamline processes, particularly repetitive ones, benefiting travelers and operators alike. It opens doors for small-scale operators to promote unique, local experiences, thereby preserving the authenticity of cultural interactions in the digital age.

Smart contracts are set to be the backbone of secure transactions in the travel ecosystem. By automating the verification and execution of contracts, they ensure transparency and reduce the potential for fraud. This aspect is particularly beneficial in areas like expense reporting and compliance in business travel, where smart contracts can streamline processes and ensure adherence to company policies.

Room tokenization, emerging through the innovative use of NFTs, offers a transformative approach in the travel and hospitality sector. This concept involves the digital representation of hotel rooms or unique travel experiences as non-fungible tokens.

These tokens, distinct and non-replicable, can be traded, sold, or even collected, introducing a dynamic new element to the travel market. This not only provides travellers with unprecedented flexibility and choice but also opens up novel revenue opportunities for service providers. By tokenizing rooms and experiences, the industry can cater to a range of traveler preferences, from those seeking luxury accommodations to those desiring unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

The role of NFTs extends beyond mere tokenization, playing a pivotal role in enhancing experiential tourism.

NFTs enable the sharing of a journey's narrative, encapsulating the essence of the places visited and the depth of connections made with destinations and cultures. This concept of "tokenization of emotions", as I"ve explored in my book "All about NFTs" by Hoepli publisher, allows for the representation of travel experiences as authentic, reputational values.

These tokens can be utilized for storytelling post-travel, adding value to the traveler's experience while simultaneously benefiting the destination and its operators. Through this innovative use of NFTs, the travel industry can create a more immersive and emotionally resonant experience, bridging the gap between physical travel and digital memorabilia.

Decentralization, a fundamental aspect of blockchain, can revolutionize loyalty programs in the travel industry. By removing intermediaries, blockchain enables a more direct and transparent relationship between service providers and customers.

This shift can lead to more personalized and flexible loyalty programs, where travellers have greater control over their rewards and experiences. The decentralized nature of blockchain ensures a more equitable and inclusive system, where smaller operators can compete with larger entities, offering unique and localized rewards.

As blockchain becomes more integrated into the travel industry, several challenges emerge. Adoption requires a significant shift in current operational models, and the industry must be prepared for this transition.

Regulatory frameworks are still catching up with the rapid pace of technological advancements, posing a challenge in terms of compliance and standardization. Ensuring a seamless user experience is crucial, as travellers vary in their tech-savviness. The industry must strive to make these technologies accessible and user-friendly.

The adoption of decentralized technologies is not without risks. Issues such as data privacy, security vulnerabilities, and the digital divide must be addressed. To mitigate these challenges, the industry needs to invest in robust security protocols, ensure transparency in data usage, and provide adequate digital literacy training to both travellers and service providers.

In an increasingly digital world, maintaining the human element in travel is paramount. While technology can enhance efficiency and convenience, it should not replace personal connections and human interactions that form the essence of travel. The industry must find a balance, leveraging technology to enrich experiences while preserving the personal touch that makes travel meaningful.

The integration of blockchain and NFTs in the travel and hospitality industry offers a plethora of opportunities, from enhancing the authenticity of travel experiences to revolutionizing loyalty programs and ensuring secure transactions.

However, it is crucial to manage these technological advancements with a keen awareness of their potential challenges and a commitment to preserving the human essence of travel. By striking this balance, the industry can step confidently into a future where technology and tradition coexist harmoniously.

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Embracing the future of travel ... decentralization | By - Hospitality Net

Web3, coined by computer scientist Gavin Wood, represents a seismic shift in the evolution of the internet. Unlike its centralized predecessor, Web2, Web3 embraces decentralization through technologies like blockchain, smart contracts, and digital assets.

In the Web3 landscape, digital assets, made possible through tokenization on the blockchain, play a central role. Tokenization allows the representation of real-world assets as digital tokens, opening up new possibilities for ownership and investment.

Web3 isnt just a technological upgrade; it signifies a move towards a more democratic and inclusive internet. By embracing decentralization, web3 empowers users to actively participate in shaping the digital future. This transformation promises a user-centric internet where individuals are more than consumers they are integral contributors to the evolving online world.

The vision is clear: a decentralized internet that prioritizes transparency, decentralization and trustless transactions. Web3 paves the way for a digital landscape where innovation and collaboration thrive, marking a new era in the internets evolution.

To grasp the significance of Web3, its essential to trace its roots through Web1 and Web2. In the early days of the internet (Web1, 1990s-2000s), static web pages and open protocols defined the landscape, fostering a one-way flow of information. Fast forward to Web2 (circa 2005), a pivotal era marked by user-generated content on platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Despite this shift, control over transactions, content, and data remained centralized within tech giants.

Now, Web3 emerges as a transformative force, challenging the established norms. Central to this evolution is blockchain technology. This innovation revolutionizes trust and transparency, eliminating the need for intermediaries. In essence, Web3 breaks free from centralized constraints. It introduces a decentralized paradigm, empowering users and fostering transparency.

Web3, a multifaceted concept, unfolds with diverse visions, extending beyond a monolithic framework. Its landscape encompasses decentralized social networks, play-to-earn video games, and NFT platforms, illustrating a broad spectrum of possibilities within this realm. Rather than a singular narrative, Web3 emerges as a dynamic ecosystem with varying interpretations.

For advocates, Web3 stands as a transformative force, dynamically reshaping power dynamics by redistributing control to users and creators. Decentralization, the cornerstone of this vision, is seen as a means to empower individuals and foster a more inclusive digital environment. The promise of play-to-earn models and NFT platforms further adds layers to this outlook, presenting new avenues for economic participation and creative expression.

In navigating the diverse visions and controversies surrounding Web3, a nuanced understanding emerges, acknowledging both its transformative potential and the need for vigilant scrutiny to address valid concerns. The evolution of Web3 reflects a dynamic interplay of technology, ideology, and societal values, shaping the future contours of the internet and how its used.

Web3 is not a monolithic concept; it encompasses various visions, including decentralized social networks, play-to-earn video games, and NFT platforms. Some see it as a transformative force, shifting power back to users and creators, while others view it skeptically as a rebranding effort for crypto. Critics express concerns about wealth centralization, privacy issues, and the potential commodification of online interactions.

For proponents, Web3 stands as a beacon of transformation, a powerful force recalibrating the balance of power between users and creators. Enthusiasts herald its potential to revolutionize digital landscapes, fostering decentralized governance and empowering individuals. In this light, Web3 is more than a technological evolution; it symbolizes a philosophical shift as well.

However, not all perspectives on Web3 are marked by unbridled enthusiasm. Skepticism persists among those who view it as a clever rebranding effort within the broader cryptocurrency landscape. Critics express valid concerns about wealth centralization, apprehensions rooted in the potential consolidation of economic power within select entities. Moreover, privacy issues loom large as the intricate interplay of decentralized technologies raises questions about data protection and user anonymity.

In the discourse surrounding Web3, controversies also surface regarding the potential commodification of online interactions.Detractors argue that the proliferation of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and play-to-earn models could inadvertently turn the digital realm into a transactional space, overshadowing the organic nature of online engagement. Striking a balance between innovation and ethical considerations becomes paramount to ensure that the positive potential of Web3 is not overshadowed by negative consequences.

Amidst these divergent perspectives, the foundations of Web3 rest on the blockchain, particularly Ethereum, and the smart contract language Solidity. Ethereums programmable blockchain has become the bedrock for a myriad of decentralized applications (DApps), underpinning the functionality of Web3 and enabling the execution of smart contracts that govern interactions within this decentralized landscape.

In navigating the landscape of Web3, it becomes evident that its true essence lies in the balance between innovation and responsibility. Stakeholders must collaboratively address concerns, fostering a space where the promises of decentralization are realized without compromising fundamental values. The journey toward a fully realized Web3 paradigm requires a nuanced understanding, embracing the complexities while striving for a future that aligns with the diverse visions and concerns that define this evolving narrative.

Proponents of Web3 envision a future where users have greater control over their data, transactions, and online interactions. Web3s promises a compelling vision for a future internet, one where users wield unprecedented control over their digital footprint. Advocates of Web3 passionately advocate for a transformative paradigm where individuals can not only safeguard their data but also monetize their online activities, ushering in a new era of economic agency. This promise extends beyond the individual, with some proponents envisioning Web3 platforms as catalysts for democratic governance, reducing dependence on traditional advertising-driven models and nurturing a more private, user-centric internet experience.

The allure of a user-centric internet, however, does not overshadow the nuanced challenges and controversies entwined with the Web3 narrative. The realization of these promises hinges on addressing critical issues, such as the intricacies of data ownership, the intricacies of democratic governance, and the potential unintended consequences of decentralization.

In conclusion, Web3s promise holds the key to reshaping the digital landscape, offering a tantalizing glimpse into a future where users dictate the terms of their online existence. Yet, this vision requires a discerning examination of the hurdles that stand in its path. Through a nuanced exploration of Web3s intricacies, we strive to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of this evolving narrative, shedding light on both the promises and complexities that define the trajectory of the user-centric internet.

Original post:

What is Web3? An introduction for newcomers | by Paul Simroth | Dec, 2023 - Medium

BNPs Strategic Stance: Abstaining from Elections & Emphasizing Decentralization

Majibur Rahaman, the Joint General Secretary of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has announced the partys decision to abstain from the forthcoming city corporation elections. During a recent press conference at the BNP Central Office, Rahaman stated that this move was a strategic choice rather than an indication of weakness. He emphasized the BNPs role as a responsible opposition party, consistently opposing any governmental policies or actions perceived as corrupt or unjust, while avoiding strikes, rallies, or destructive activities.

The BNP, during the press conference, unveiled a 24-point election manifesto that primarily focuses on decentralization. The party plans to upgrade existing divisions into provinces and rename them. New proposed names include Uttar Banga, Barindra, Jahangirnagar, Jalalabad, Jahanabad, Chandradwip, Pahar Maynamoti, and Chattala Province. A core part of this decentralization initiative entails transferring at least 50% of central government departments to these provincial capitals.

This restructuring aligns with the BNPs objective to establish a federal government structure in Bangladesh. This would also involve a complete overhaul of the Election Commission, ensuring it operates as a fully autonomous and impartial entity. Rahaman underlined that the BNPs primary aim has always been to safeguard the peoples interests and instigate positive changes in governance and administrative systems without resorting to disruptive measures.

In stark contrast to the BNPs stance, recent disruptions, including vandalism and arson attacks on the railway during a BNP-Jamaat called blockade, have caused physical harm to citizens and extensive damage to government property. These actions aim to obstruct the upcoming elections and the nations progress. The government and the people of Bangladesh are steadfastly against such acts of violence. They are resolute in preserving peace and continuing the countrys socio-economic development, even in the face of these challenges. A non-cooperation movement, urging people to boycott the upcoming general elections on 7 January, was announced by the BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi during a virtual press conference.

In conclusion, while political unrest persists in Bangladesh, the BNP continues to emphasize its dedication to positive change and the protection of peoples interests. Despite the decision to abstain from the upcoming city corporation elections, the party remains committed to its strategies, focusing on decentralization and the establishment of a federal government structure. The BNPs stance is a testament to their aspiration for a more democratic and just society, without resorting to disruptive protests or acts of violence.

Excerpt from:

BNP's Election Strategy: Focus on Decentralization & Responsible Opposition - BNN Breaking