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[jiacast]

Black Friday

It may not be Black Friday today, but attending such shopping events as Black Friday does evoke a lot of mixed feelings about shopping. Shopping is fun and useful; however, spending too much and at times impulsively can prove either to be a boon or a bane.

Positive Aspects:

Economic Activity: Boom sales developments transpire, which is even more important for fortune for small or local businesses that consolidate into the economy.

Price Access: The big discount on Black Friday is also one occasion that makes certain products that are otherwise pricey available to the thrifty when discounted.

Community Involvedness: Even through sales, activity in the local community resonates whenever local stores are encouraged during seasonal sales.

Negative Aspects:

Environmental Damage: All this overproduction has to meet the requirements of shopping, leading to waste, pollution, and depletion of natural resources, which indeed suffer with both fast fashion and non-recyclable articles.

Issues concerning Economy: Shopping extravagantly can lead to debts in an individual, damaging their financial condition.

Materialism over Values: Excessive consumerism can eventually shift from other important things like sustainability and mindfulness into a culture of "throwaway.".

My View:

It's nice to shop, but I adopt an attitude of careful and considerate buying. Balance, in my opinion, is important, for one should not forgo taking advantage of sales on things that are necessary or value-adding to life but indulging oneself. It should also present eco-friendly options and support brands with sustainability in mind.

[jiacast]

The Abandoned Bear

I sit with dust atop this shelf as I can't remember the last time I moved. My fur was soft and rich honey brown, but now it is dull and bright button eyes have turned dim after years of neglect. I was not always like this. I was hand stitched with love-sewing seams strong and stuffing just right plush. I was meant to put joy in someone's child's life. But now here I be—an old teddy bear, forgotten in the shadowy corners of a warehouse.

Days are quiet, with the smile making occasional creaks from footfalls moving on the wooden floor or from the shelves being rearranged in a metallic pattern. Toy after toy sees me as it travels towards a warm home. Brightly colored robots all draw chopped fingers with flashy lights, the adorable porcelain dolls that are put together by painted smiles, all board games wrapped in a shiny cellophane—each disappear, carried off into eager children's hands or by careful parents. 

Not for me. 

The noise is normal now, but it has not captured too much of me. The thought that goes back is when I came proudly and prominently arranged in front of the shop with a big bow at my neck. Children scamper into the store and, looking at the shelves, light up. Once there was a boy who touched me with pretty little chubby hands as he reached out, but his mother pulled him away to get him a shinier toy. That was about as close as I've ever gotten to getting out. 

Here, I am no longer so exposed to proud display. Now, I lie atop the highest shelf at the farthest end of the aisle, dusty as forgotten puzzles and out-of-season decorations. Shadows grow longer, and light looks dimmer in this part. There are times when silence presses heavily against seams, making me wonder if I am still going to be loved as before.

Yet I dream still.

Dreaming of soft hands clutching me tightly, whispering secrets in the quiet of the night, dreaming of sitting on a child's bed, the wear of cut and mend on my fur-matted body. Dreaming of belonging.

One day, however, everything changes.

The door creaks open, and a faint shaft of light slices through the gloom. A tiny figure enters: uncombed hair, mismatched socks, and a tear in the sleeve of their sweater. Such a wayfinding, walking around with wide-open eyes as though they were finding some treasure vault. The shiny toys and great colors pass there as the eyes flick off to focus on the shadows.

Then they see me.

They reach up, stretching on tiptoes, brushing my paw with their fingers. With a little hop, they grab hold and pull me down. My limbs dangle awkwardly; my fur sheds a bit of dust. They cradle me carefully, considering me with a slight tilt of their heads.

"You are perfect," they whisper.

Perfection. So, within me, the word acts like a beam of sunshine all through, warming every stitch and seam. This is the feeling of being whole for the first time. I know that when I catch a light outside, it will no longer be waiting. 

I have finally chosen.

[jiacast]

I believe

Here are five beliefs or values I feel strongly about, along with how they might differ or align with friends' values:

1. Kindness and Compassion

Belief: Being nice and compassionate to everyone is crucial. I believe in being sympathetic and helpful, especially to people who are different or facing difficulties.

Difference: While others may appreciate compassion, I may prioritize neurodivergent inclusiveness or be more aware of people's feelings as a result of my personal experiences.

Similarity: Many of the people I know aim to be nice and helpful, which fosters a sense of kindness in our interactions.

2. Creativity and Self-Expression

Belief: I love creativity because it allows me to express myself and connect with others. My passion for storytelling, music, and the performing arts is a prime example of this.

Difference: I place a higher value on creative interests, multimedia assignments, and playing the piano than some of my friends do on academics or athletics.

Similarity: We connect with common hobbies like music or art, and many of our friends still value creativity.

3. Inclusivity and Advocacy

Belief: I am passionate about creating accessible spaces, especially for neurodivergent persons and those with disabilities. I think that everyone is entitled to respect and fair treatment.

Difference: Some friends might not give these topics as much or as much thought, particularly if they haven't been affected by or seen ableism or other types of exclusion.

Similarity: Most of my friends think that justice and respect are crucial, even if their approaches to advocating differ.

4. Family and Friendship

Belief: Family and personal relationships are vital. Despite how hectic life can get, I think it's important to value and make time for those I care about.

Difference: While other people might prefer independence over family or find it simpler to establish new acquaintances, I place a high emphasis on preserving close, lasting relationships.

Similarity: I have the same belief as my friends that value close friendships or family ties.

5. Personal Growth and Resilience

Belief: I enjoy the opportunity to learn from obstacles and grow as an individual. Staying positive and overcoming obstacles are crucial to me.

Difference: Some people may respond differently to setbacks, such as being more action-oriented or fast to move on, whereas I may take time to think and adjust.

Similarity: Many of my friends emphasize personal development and resiliency, even when our approaches differ.

[jiacast]

Francis Hodgeson Burnett’s Birthday

Mine is a secret garden that behindes a glorious ivy-covered stone wall with an arched wooden door. It is like a fantasy escape. The key needed to open it is hidden beneath a mossy rock found nearby. Inside, cherry blossom trees... have canopies that cast a soft pink glow, while petals carpet the winding stone paths.

A crystal-clear stream meanders through the garden. Quaint wooden bridges cross the stream, and it goes into a small Koi pond with bright, playful fish. Clusters of lavender and peonies surround the pond, their fragrances mingling in the warm breeze. 

In the middle of it all is a cozy wooden gazebo, swathed in wisteria vines. It will be fine for reading a book or playing the piano on a sunny afternoon. Lightly strung between great big trees will be little fairy lights, twinkling softly at night, making it magical after sunset. 

Hidden secrets in the garden: from an old oak tree swings a swing, in between two strong trunks hangs a hammock, and a mini herb garden containing thyme, mint, and rosemary rests snugly in its holding place. This is a really peaceful but creative place for exploration.

[jiacast]

Thank you letter

A thank you letter to a new friend I made this year

Dear Izzy,

I hope you're doing well! I wanted to take a moment to thank you for being such a wonderful friend to me and my sisters. Our friendship has truly been one of the most grateful and unexpected surprises in my life, and I feel so lucky to have met you.

It’s amazing how we share so many special interests, like our love for Dove Cameron and BTS. It feels so nice to have someone who truly gets my excitement about these things. You’re such a kind and thoughtful person, and even though we live far apart and have busy lives, you always find the time to text me on Instagram. That means the world to me.

I also think it���s so special that we’re both the eldest daughters with two younger sisters. Getting to know Mika and Patricia has been just as wonderful as forming this new friendship with you. I love the bond we’ve created, and I really hope we can all see each other again soon.

Thank you for being such a positive and supportive presence in my life. Making new friends has never been easy for me, but you’ve made it feel natural and joyful. I’m so grateful for you and our growing friendship!

Take care and stay amazing! With lots of love and gratitude,

Jianna

I would send it to her to let her know how much she meant to me this 2024 and how her instant connection and kindness shined through when we first met.

[jiacast]

Mr Mean

In the markets of Green Valley Grocer's, there lives this very ripe, round, and rather nasty chap by the name of Mr. Mean, the tomato, who is always showing them his tomatoes with his collection of other tomatoes on the highest shelf in the fresh produce of the market. He would take great pleasure in scowling and throwing insults and making fun of everyone that he was able to lay his eyes on in the fresh produce section.

“Well, well, well, what do we have here? Look who has come to impress! Dear Apple, the shiny coat is a little over the top, don't you think?” He would mock. ���Avocado fella, I can see your spots coming out! Who would eat a side so burnt?”  “Hey carrot, what’s the deal with the crown? Do you know what styling is?”

Most of the other fruits and vegetables would only mutter among themselves about how horrible the manners of Mr. Mean Tomato are, but they were either too polite—or fully frightened—to take him on.

For example, one day, another reception of fruits and vegetables came to the store. One of the new arrivals was a little and timid cucumber named Cami. She had just come into the market and was scared about doing well. When she came into his vision, Mr. Mean turned cruel.

“What is this? A green sludge with no taste? Cami, stick yourself in the rubbish bin as you deserve it!”

The other produce exhaled sharply. The poor Cami blushed in horror and sheltered herself behind a watermelon.

That night, when the shop was encore and the illumination was low, something unusual happened. The Fruits and Veggies Council, under the leadership of the incredibly wise Granny Smith, decided they had enough of him. They went to Mr. Mean.

“Why do you behave this way?” Granny Smith asked, puzzled. “Can’t you realize that your bombardment of words is painful to the targets?”

“Of course not! I am just making it entertaining!” snorted Mr. Mean and patted his polished chest proudly. “They are way too soft!”

“Tomorrow,” said Granny Smith, “you will be the one who knows what it means to be little.”

The following morning began with Mr. Mean being shifted to a lower shelf. This was the first time, placed above towering watermelons and beneath sitting fat and sweet strawberries, he felt small and insignificant. He had the feeling of being left out as the clients who walked in extended their arms for the watermelons or strawberries and not for him. 

Loneliness washed over him, so he called to the rest of them. “Hey, Banana, Carrot, Apple! How is everything going?”

But there was no response. They were fed up with his cruelty and didn’t wish to be entertained by him any longer.

Alas, by the end of the day, Mr. Mean was utterly heartbroken. He had no buddies, and no one regarded him. That evening, he made a regretful call to the Council.

“I know how terrible it is to be outside the action now, and it is not a pleasant feeling,” he said candidly. “I was cruel in order to inflate myself, but it had the opposite effect.”

Granny Smith looked at him with warmth. “There is always time for transformation, Mr. Mean. Greatness lies in being kind.”

The very next day, Mr. Mean Tomato made up his mind to alter his ways. He admired Apple for her glossy shine; he called Banana’s freckles ‘The charming spots of wisdom’ and assured Cami that she was ‘the finest cucumber of the lot.’ Gradually, other fruits and vegetables began to excuse him.

Mr. Mean Tomato was not a mean tomato anymore. On the contrary, he became so nice and supportive that the market gave him the title. Thereafter, he was known as Mr. Sweet Tomato. And from then on, the Green Valley Grocers was a dignified establishment.

Moral: A kind act generously is the sweetest gift of all.

[jiacast]

Life without the internet

In 2045, the Global Council of Nations enacted "The Digital Disconnect," banning the internet and computers, forcing societies to adapt to a slower, more deliberate rhythm. Mira, a graphic designer, worked in her family's print shop, handcrafting posters, books, and illustrations. She found solace in the tactile joy of paper, ink, and creativity.

Communication had changed drastically, with people writing letters instead of sending emails and news arriving via daily broadcasts on analog radios or printed newspapers. Social gatherings thrived as face-to-face interaction replaced online chats. Mira found it refreshing but also challenging, as making friends required courage she hadn't needed when she could hide behind a screen.

One day, Mira stumbled upon an underground group called "The Archivists," dedicated to preserving knowledge from the internet age. They stored books, photographs, and handwritten transcriptions of vital digital content in a library basement. Mira joined their ranks, contributing her design skills to make their collection accessible.

As months passed, Mira noticed that without the internet, people seemed more present, with conversations in the marketplace being vibrant, towns hosting regular events, and storytelling becoming a cherished pastime. However, she couldn't ignore the drawbacks, such as slowed scientific research, global collaboration waning, and marginalized voices struggling to be heard without digital platforms.

Mira proposed creating a decentralized system accessible only through community hubs, ensuring transparency and collective decision-making. The Archivists voted to pursue her idea, and Lumina became the testing ground for the "Knowledge Exchange." Citizens could visit libraries to access localized digital databases while preserving the simplicity of their offline lives.

In this new future, humanity learned to live with its tools, not for them. Mira, with ink-stained hands and a hopeful heart, finds her place in a world rediscovering its soul.

[jiacast]

Everyone is different

What makes me different from my friends?

I'm an introvert but like to make friends who are "actually" nice to me.

I like to talk in one-on-one conversations.

I love to make music with the piano.

I'm taking Creative Media as my course.

I hate spicy food or any foods and drinks that will give me a sensory overload.

Sometimes, I don't like plans having to change unexpectedly.

I don't like watching horror movies.

While most of my friends are neurotypical, I'm neurodivergent.

[jiacast]

Use Less Stuff Day

Survival Essentials List

• Documents & Identification: Passport, ID, birth certificate, legal or medical documents. • Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, socks, undergarments, and hat. • Food & Water: Portable water filter, lightweight food, and reusable water bottle. • Shelter & Sleep: Compact sleeping bag, tent, emergency thermal blanket. • Health & Hygiene: First aid kit, prescribed medications, travel-sized toiletries, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes. • Tools: Multi-tool or Swiss army knife, flashlight, matches, rope, paracord. • Communication & Navigation: Fully charged phone, physical map, whistle for signaling. • For Emotional Well-being: Small keepsake, notebook & pen, religious item, book, or motivational quote.

[jiacast]

Anti-bullying Week Starts

Anti-Bullying Action Plan

Supporting Bullied Individuals • Listen without judgment and let them know they are not their fault. • Encourage them to seek help from a trusted adult.

Taking Action Safely • If safe, intervene and tell the bully to stop. • Distract or redirect attention away from the bullying situation.

Reporting the Incident • Discuss the incident with a teacher, school counselor, parent, or trusted adult. • Provide details about what happened, when, and where.

Documenting the Incident • Write down the incident for accurate reporting.

Preventing Bullying • Promote inclusion and kindness. • Raise awareness about the effects of bullying. • Set a good example and stand against negative behaviors. • Support a safe environment and advocate for safe spaces.

Who to Talk to About Bullying • Trusted Adults: Parents, guardians, teachers, or school counselors. • Peers: Supportive friends or classmates. • Authorities or Support Services: Anti-bullying hotlines or local organizations. • Online Platforms: Use anonymous reporting tools or reach out to organizations like StopBullying.gov.

[jiacast]

The Outsider

Most of the time, I feel excluded or not belonging, which makes me feel sad, frustrated, and confused. It can make me feel like I'm not attractive enough or lonely, and it can be difficult to reach out to others without appearing pushy. Reflecting on my experience, it is important to recognize that sometimes people don't intentionally exclude others, and it is possible that they are shy, focused on their own group, or unaware of the impact of their actions on others. To overcome this, I can take initiative, build confidence, seek other connections, and express my feelings calmly, asking if there's a way to be included in the group. By doing so, I can better navigate their social environment and find acceptance and inclusion.

[jiacast]

Protest Poster

My protest poster about ableism against autistic people

[jiacast]

I Love to Write Day

Here are ten reasons why writing can be a fulfilling and beneficial activity:

1. Self-Expression: Writing allows me to convey my thoughts, feelings, and ideas in a structured way. It’s a creative outlet that helps articulate what might otherwise go unsaid.

2. Emotional Release: Writing can be therapeutic, providing a way to process emotions, relieve stress, and feel more balanced, similar to journaling.

3. Improved Communication: Writing regularly helps sharpen communication skills, making it easier to express myself clearly in both spoken and written forms.

4. Enhanced Creativity: Writing stimulates the mind to think creatively. The act of constructing a story, poem, or article can spark new ideas and perspectives.

5. Boosted Confidence: Completing a writing project or piece can bring a strong sense of accomplishment and build self-confidence.

6. Mental Clarity: Writing encourages organizing thoughts, which helps me think more clearly and prioritize ideas. This can lead to better problem-solving skills.

7. Increased Knowledge: Researching topics for writing expands my knowledge and understanding of a wide range of subjects.

8. Personal Growth: Writing can serve as a mirror, revealing insights about yourself that I might not have otherwise realized, fostering growth and self-awareness.

9. Career Advantage: Writing skills are essential in nearly every field. Professional settings highly value the ability to craft clear emails, reports, and proposals.

10. Memory and Cognition: Writing regularly can improve memory retention and cognitive abilities, helping me remember details better and stay mentally agile. 

Writing can become both a valuable personal practice and a versatile tool for growth, creativity, and self-discovery.

[jiacast]

Peace on Earth

In my ideal world, peace and happiness would be abundant, addressing global issues with compassion, fairness, and a deep commitment to sustainability. This includes equal opportunities for everyone, including education, employment, healthcare, and housing, eliminating systemic barriers and allowing everyone to achieve their potential. Economic fairness would eradicate poverty and ensure basic needs like food, water, shelter, and healthcare are guaranteed for all.

Sustainable practices would be prioritized, with countries and corporations embracing clean energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower. Waste reduction would be embraced, with circular economies promoting recycling and reuse. Universal access to housing would be provided to all, and food security would be ensured through sustainable agriculture and equitable food distribution systems.

Global peace and cooperation would be achieved through conflict resolution through diplomacy and understanding, with nations investing in education, dialogue, and cultural exchange instead of military expansion. Support for refugees and immigrants would be provided through welcoming, inclusive communities and policies protecting their dignity and rights.

Education for all would be universal, providing free, high-quality education that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and empathy. Schools and societies would celebrate and teach about different cultures, promoting a world where people appreciate and learn from one another. In this world, people would be deeply interconnected and empathetic, seeing themselves as stewards of the Earth and part of a global family.

[jiacast]

World Kindness Day

Ask how someone is doing – Check in on someone and show genuine interest in their well-being.

Donate or volunteer – Give to a cause or help out in your community, even in small ways.

Express gratitude – Tell someone you’re grateful for them or say "thank you" in a way that feels personal.

Help someone with a task – Offer to help a friend, family member, or coworker with something they’re working on.

Hold the door open – Simple gestures like holding the door or letting someone go ahead in line show thoughtfulness.

Leave a kind note – Write a short, positive note and leave it somewhere unexpected, like on a coworker’s desk or a family member’s room.

Listen actively – When someone talks to you, give them your full attention and show empathy.

Offer a compliment – A genuine compliment can brighten someone's day and boost their confidence.

Send a heartfelt message – Text or call someone to let them know you’re thinking of them.

Share a treat – Bring a snack or small treat to share with others.

[jiacast]

Fancy Rat & Mouse Day

Ralphie, the Fancy Rat

In Whiskerville, a city filled with rats and mice, Ralphie, a fancy rat, stood out as he took pride in his appearance. He would wake up in his cozy nest, brush his silky gray fur with a toothbrush, and polish his tiny claws until they gleam. Ralphie believed that staying clean and tidy was not just about looking good but also feeling good.

Despite being snubbed by the other rats and mice, Ralphie continued to walk through the alleyways, sipping on fresh water from the fountain and nibbling on nearby crumbs. One day, Whiskerville faced a problem when a local bakery closed its back door, leaving no way for the rats to get their usual leftovers. Ralphie suggested asking the baker for help, suggesting that if they approached politely, he might leave some treats out for them.

The other rats were skeptical, but Ralphie volunteered to speak to the baker. Surprised to see such a tidy little rat, the baker agreed to leave a few treats out each evening. The rats and mice cheered, realizing that Ralphie's approach worked. From that day on, they saw him differently. Ralphie became known as the Fancy Rat of Whiskerville, and soon, even the other rats started brushing their fur and cleaning their paws.

Ralphie showed everyone that being clean, polite, and fancy wasn't just about appearances—it was about making the world a better place for everyone.

[jiacast]

Origami Day

Making an Elegant Origami Heart

• Materials: One square piece of paper, any color. • Steps: Fold the square diagonally to form a triangle and diagonally the other way to create a rectangle. • Fold the paper in half horizontally and vertically to form a smaller square with an "X" with a cross (+) in the middle. • Create the basic heart shape by folding the bottom point to the center and the top point down to the bottom edge. • Shape the top of the heart by folding the left and right points to the center and folding the top corners down. • Add final touches: Tuck in any sharp points and flatten the heart to make it softer. • Use the heart as a gift tag or decoration.