#" "life balance strategies

[gangasemwal2025]

How to Build a Balanced Lifestyle in 2025: Tips for Work, Wellness, and Fun

Build a Balanced Lifestyle in 2025: Work, Wellness, Fun Published on April 24, 2025 by DailyZingMindBazaar Achieving a balanced lifestyle in 2025 means harmonizing work, wellness, and fun in a busy world. This guide shares work-life balance tips to help you thrive with life balance strategies for a healthy lifestyle 2025. Why a Balanced Lifestyle Matters A balanced lifestyle boosts mental…

[novascharms]

teach please me — tutor!reader x soccer player!rafe

reader's life is meticulously planned, from high school to becoming president of the country—she knows exactly where she's headed and every step to get there. but her airtight plan hits a snag when the principal ropes her into tutoring rafe cameron, the school’s star soccer player, who’s failing algebra and at risk of being benched next season. the team needs him on the field, and reader needs the principal’s glowing recommendation to secure her spot at her dream school. balancing her ambitious goals with rafe’s chaotic charm might just throw her perfectly crafted plan off track.

word count — 4.9 chapter index — prev. chap. — next chap. masterlist

twelve

tuesday, february 11th

being a good multitasker has always been one of those skills you prided yourself on. it was something you’d perfected over the years, something you needed in every facet of your life—being the responsible older sister, the student body president, the volunteer, the worker. juggling everything, keeping a hundred things on your mind, your to-do list, was second nature. it was just how you lived.

but all of that—every skill, every strategy, every ounce of focus—vanished the second rafe cameron kissed you 38 hours ago. you hadn’t been prepared for it, didn’t know it was possible for someone to completely scramble your mind, to set your body on fire with just the press of their lips. there are about 1,300 nerve endings per square inch of skin, and rafe had somehow activated every single one with that kiss. your brain chemistry had been rewritten, and no matter how hard you tried, you couldn’t undo it.

it didn’t matter what you did, who you talked to, what you watched—you couldn’t escape him. his lips, his touch, haunted every thought, clung to every waking moment. he was embedded in your skin, in your mind, from the moment you woke up to the moment you closed your eyes. even then, your dreams had no mercy.

it only took a blink, and you were back in that room, rafe's arms around you, nipping your bottom lip, feeling his breathe mingle with yours, you could still feel how his chest felt whe you'd rested your hand on it, could still remember that little sound he'd made right before your mom burst into the room.

a little voice in the back of your head whispered the reason you were still thinking about it, why it was still playing on a loop in your head—you wanted more. you craved more, and it was consuming you, gnawing at the edges of every thought. more of rafe, more of that kiss, more of whatever this thing between you was.

"y/n," a sharp voice cut through your daydream, yanking you back to reality. startled, you blinked rapidly, your head jerking toward your english teacher. ivy, who had been carefully scribbling something in her notebook, glanced at you in confusion, noticing your delayed response to the question you hadn’t even heard.

"uh—yes?" you managed, trying to sound coherent despite the fog of your thoughts.

mrs. campbell raised a brow, her gaze expectant. "can you answer the question?" she asked, her tone firm but not unkind.

you cleared your throat, scrambling to pull yourself together. the quiet shuffle of ivy’s book caught your attention, and you glanced over, spotting a small note tucked in the corner. 'meaning quote,' it said, the words a subtle lifeline as your mind scrambled to catch up. your gaze flickered to the blackboard behind mrs. campbell, and there it was—‘so we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.’

the words from the great gatsby stood out like a beacon. for a heartbeat, everything inside you went still. the weight of the room—the eyes on you, including mrs. campbell’s—felt like it was pressing down on your chest. but then, slowly, you straightened in your seat, drawing on a sliver of confidence, the reminder that you’d read this book twice now.

“i think…” you started, your voice shaky at first but growing steadier with each word. "he's saying that people are always fighting against things they can't control. like… no matter how hard we try to move forward, the past always pulls us back. our memories, our regrets, maybe even guilt—those are the currents he’s talking about."

there was a long pause as mrs. campbell studied you, her eyes sharp, weighing your answer. finally, she nodded, turning back to the class. "exactly. so what we can deduce from that is—" her voice trailed off as you tuned her out once again, giving a quiet nod of thanks to ivy.

"what's going on?" ivy whispered, her concern evident in the way she leaned in. it wasn’t like you to zone out like that, especially in class. "what did bootleg messi pull now?" she added, her voice light but teasing, and you smiled, turning back to the board but not before giving her a gentle shove. you heard her quiet giggle fill the space between you.

of course, you hadn’t told your friends about the kiss. that would’ve been like asking hazel to strangle you in front of everyone—which, knowing hazel, she’d probably do without hesitation.

you’d made it clear to them, especially to hazel, that you wouldn’t let him in, that you’d protect yourself from whatever this thing was. and yet, here you were—letting him all the way in. the situation would’ve been different if you had any plans to cut him off, but you didn’t. you wanted more. a lot more.

when class ended and you found yourself standing by devon's locker, waiting for her to dig around for her chemistry book, your mind drifted again. was this normal? did everyone feel this kind of almost desperate withdrawal after something as simple as a kiss? it felt ridiculous to admit, but you were completely disheveled by a boy. by a kiss. a damn good kiss.

"ready?" hazel's voice pulled you from your thoughts, her tone a little sharper now that devon had finally shoved her book into her backpack and nodded in agreement. without thinking, you looped your arm through hazel's as the four of you started walking out of school. "did you ever hear back from that angry customer?" you asked absently, your mind still somewhere else.

hazel hummed in acknowledgment, then chuckled, "yeah, she reached out to customer service, and guess what they told her?"

"the exact same thing you told her?" you guessed, grinning, and hazel gave a quick nod, her lips curling into a smirk. "yup," she said, popping the p in ‘yup’ like it was the final nail in the coffin.

your small smile faltered when you stepped outside the building and saw what was unfolding in front of you. "what is going on?" ivy's voice was filled with confusion, and you couldn’t help but feel the same.

rafe and topper were in the middle of what looked like a heated verbal argument. you and everyone else could see the anger between them, but the exact context was lost in the shuffle of their raised voices. their friends had formed a circle around them, trying desperately to intervene, but it was obvious nothing was getting through. rafe kept attempting to walk away, but topper blocked him each time.

on rafe's third attempt, he finally shoved topper, who stumbled but quickly regained his balance. before he could do anything else, kiara stepped in, her face furious as she shoved topper back, shouting ‘enough’ and ‘stop’ in his face with an intensity that made the entire scene feel dangerously close to something more.

rafe took the opportunity to break free, even though his friends were trying to stop him. it was clear where he was headed, though—straight toward you.

hazel's voice was low and confused. "is he coming over here?" she muttered, and you could see rafe’s friends trailing behind him, likely to make sure he was okay.

you started walking toward rafe to meet him halfway, your voice sharp with tension. "what are you doing?" you asked before he even reached you. there was no way he was about to start something in front of half the school.

"come with me," rafe said, his tone brokering no argument, the command obvious in his words. "i'm driving you home."

"rafe—" you tried to protest, but before you could finish, john b’s hand landed on rafe's shoulder, his voice urging him. "rafe, c'mon—"

rafe spun around to face his friend, irritation clear in his expression. "i’m not in the fucking mood to deal with him, alright?" he snapped, not bothering to wait for a reply before grabbing your wrist and tugging you along with him.

"rafe, slow down—" you tried to keep up, your steps faltering as you struggled to stay with him. "rafe, i came on my bike, i can’t just—"

"i'll pick you up in the morning," he interrupted, his voice as firm as steel, cutting off any further protests. before you could argue, he flung open the passenger door, blocking you in the small space between the car and the door. it was clear what he wanted: you had two choices—get in or physically fight this six-foot-tall athlete who wasn’t giving an inch.

his jaw was clenched tight, his posture rigid, and you felt an overwhelming urge to kiss the anger right off his face. you could feel the intensity building inside you, the heat of the moment becoming unbearable. it was that urge—raw and undeniable—that finally made you climb into the car. a few more seconds of standing there, and you knew you would’ve done it, would’ve kissed him and made everything even more complicated than it already was.

he doesn’t say a word as the car hums to life, just starts driving with a tense grip on the wheel, his jaw so tight it looks like it might snap. you're left staring at him in disbelief, the weight of what just happened sinking in. was that real?

you can tell something’s wrong when he moves his hand from the gear stick to the steering wheel, and you notice his hand trembling—just slightly, but enough to make your heart skip. “rafe,” you say softly, your voice almost a whisper as your hand moves toward his. the second your fingers brush his skin, his whole body tightens, and he pulls his hand away like you’ve burned him. “not when i’m driving,” he snaps, the coldness in his tone like a slap to your chest.

you watch him, sadness pulling at your chest, and slump back into the seat, the air between you two thick with tension. only then do you feel the sharp throb in your feet, the pain from the new shoes you’d barely managed to keep on all day. you shift your bag aside and carefully pop your heel out of your patent black ballet flats. they were new, from steve madden, whose shoes were designed with a particular vendetta against women’s feet. blisters were basically guaranteed.

you wince at the sight of the angry bubble forming on the back of your heel, and despite the sharp sting, you already find yourself daydreaming about soaking in a hot bath tonight, the relief already calling your name.

"what?" rafe’s voice breaks through your thoughts, and you look up at him, unsure what he’s seeing. "what? nothing." you frown, sitting up a little straighter.

his eyes flick back to the road, but his tone softens just a little. "you're in pain. you just winced. what's wrong?"

you shake your head, dismissing his concern as you try to shove the discomfort aside. "i have new shoes on. just a blister." you try to brush it off, but when the car stops at a red light, you notice rafe’s eyes flicking down to your feet.

"take them off," he says, almost like an order, but you hesitate. how were you supposed to relax your blistered feet in his car without feeling weird about it? and how was he not disgusted?

"no, that’s not proper. it's okay," you tell him, your voice a little shaky. he rolls his eyes, exasperated.

"you're gonna make me do it?" he mutters, but before you can answer, he’s already leaning across the seat, his hand reaching for your shoes, completely ignoring your protest.

"rafe!" you gasp, startled as you kick your feet, trying to push him away, but he grips your shoe like it’s his personal mission to take them off. the light turns green, and you panic, "rafe, stop, the light turned green!" you try to wriggle out of his grasp, but he’s relentless, fighting you for your second shoe even as the cars behind honk impatiently.

finally, he lets go, and with both of your shoes in hand, he tosses them casually into the backseat as if nothing had happened, his eyes back on the road like the whole scene had been completely normal.

"you know you’re insane?" you mutter after a beat, disbelief creeping into your voice. rafe’s lips press together, his eyes still focused ahead.

"i have very little patience today," he mutters under his breath as he pulls into your street. the reminder of his earlier anger stirs a knot in your stomach, and you hesitate, wondering if you should ask what happened. but you don’t—prodding him further would only make things worse.

he parks his car and you reach behind to find your shoes he carelessly threw to the back but before you can, he's opening the backdoor and grabbing them. you blink when he slams the door shut and leaves you with no shoes.

you're just about to open the door, ready to ask him for your shoes, when the door swings open and rafe scoops you up into his arms. "rafe, what are you doing?" you ask, your hands instinctively wrapping around his neck for support.

"i'm skydiving, obviously." he says flatly and with one swift kick, he shuts the door behind him, then presses the button on his car keys to lock it.

you can't help but grimace at his sarcasm. "you're just being so lovely today," you mutter, offering him a fake smile. he smirks in response, clearly enjoying this. before you know it, you're standing in front of his door, rummaging through your bag for the keys.

"i am, aren't i? and you really don't deserve it since you've been avoiding me," he says, a small edge to his voice, his tone playful but with something else lingering under the surface.

your cheeks flush, the heat creeping up as you finally manage to unlock the door. "i… h—"

"whenever you do that, that subtle hesitation," he interrupts, his voice suddenly serious, "you're about to lie. have you ever noticed that?"

your eyes widen as he gently sets you down on your feet, his words making you feel caught off guard.

"i mean, i'm saying it to help you," he continues, "when you become president, you can't be caught lying this easily."

you let out a soft sigh, the warmth of embarrassment spreading across your face. you cover your face for a moment, feeling exposed. "i'm sorry," you murmur, the sincerity in your voice not lost on him.

he shakes his head, his hands resting lightly on your shoulders, grounding you. "i looked it up. i think it's a defense mechanism."

your jaw drops just a little, surprised that rafe, of all people, has done research for you. research was your thing.

"you don't like confrontation," he continues, his voice calm, "and you don't like dealing with your emotions. you like things you can control and predict and feelings are probably the most unpredictable and uncontrollable things we experience. i think you're willing to do a lot to avoid those two things, including lying."

it’s a strange feeling, to be psychoanalyzed this way, the way you so often do to others. you’re not used to being the one on the receiving end of this kind of observation.

his hands shift from your shoulders to cradle your face gently, his thumbs brushing over your cheeks in a tender, almost reverent way. "i can feel that you're afraid."

"is it that obvious?" you whisper, your heart fluttering as your nose brushes against his, the proximity making your breath hitch.

he nods slowly, his lips just inches from yours. "just can't figure out why," he murmurs, his voice low and soft. then, with a gentle teasing bite, he nips at your bottom lip.

you want to tell him why, to explain the gnawing feeling in your gut that something is bound to go wrong, that eventually, he’s going to break your heart. but you don’t say that. because, well…

you're a liar.

"i've never done this," you begin, your words rushing out in a nervous ramble, "i… i avoided you because i didn’t even know how to look at you anymore after sunday."

your hands fidget nervously, eyes darting around as you feel the panic rise. "i watched…" you hesitate, unsure how to say it. "..adult content yesterday," you whisper it like it's a secret, "and it was so scary. i almost broke my laptop from how hard i tossed it off my bed." your voice is barely above a murmur, and rafe’s eyes widen in amusement.

he starts laughing, shaking his head as you quickly look around, despite knowing no one will be home for another hour.

"you watched po—"

"don't say it!" you hiss, your cheeks burning at the thought.

he’s still laughing, amusement dancing in his eyes as he pulls you close, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead. "c'mon," he says, his tone light but insistent as he takes your hand. "let’s go."

you let him lead you up the stairs, your nerves gnawing at you. you're unsure what’s next, what’s going to happen between the two of you. but that's what being with rafe always feels like—you never see anything coming with him.

you both settle on your bed, the quiet hum of the room filling the space between you. you sit cross-legged while he turns toward you, his gaze steady and soft, as though he’s trying to convey everything without saying a word. then, his voice breaks the silence, low and calm, like a soothing balm.

he looks at you and the distance you've put between the two of you. “firstly, you have nothing to be afraid of,” he says, a small grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. with an easy pull, he brings you closer until your leg is draped over his, the warmth of his touch grounding you. “this doesn’t have to be anything you don’t want it to be. i just want you to feel good—feel okay. we’ll go at your pace, yeah? wherever you lead me.”

his words settle over you like a promise, steady and unyielding. you nod hesitantly, fingers nervously fidgeting in your lap. “i think… we can take it slow, right?” your voice is quiet, unsure, as you glance down.

he tilts his head forward, his forehead brushing against yours, forcing you to meet his eyes. “course,” he murmurs, the weight of his sincerity making you exhale softly.

with tentative fingers, you reach up, your thumb grazing over his lips in an almost reverent motion. “i don’t know anything,” you admit, the words slipping out like a secret.

his smile softens, a small, reassuring thing that makes your chest tighten. “m’ here,” he mutters, his hand resting gently on your waist. “i’ll help you, just like you help me.”

and what was the harm in this? something quiet and undefined, not quite a relationship, but not nothing either. it felt safe—like an agreement between the two of you, unspoken but understood.

“like… comparative advantage,” you murmur, your voice still soft but gaining a touch of animation.

he raises a brow, clearly unsure where you’re going with this.

“comparative advantage,” you repeat, lips brushing against his. “it’s when countries—or even people—specialize in what they’re relatively best at. it’s about focusing on what they can produce most efficiently, with fewer resources or less effort, instead of trying to do everything.”

he blinks, his head tilting slightly as he considers your explanation. “you know what i find fascinating?” he asks, his voice carrying a quiet, teasing warmth.

you hum, encouraging him to continue, a small smile already playing on your lips.

“the more you ramble about shit i don’t understand, the more attractive i find you,” he says, his tone light but earnest.

a laugh bubbles out of you, your heart racing as he dips his head, pressing playful kisses along your neck. “tell me more!” he demands, his hands sliding around your waist and tugging you closer.

you giggle, your arms looping around his neck as your mind scrambles to find something—anything—to say. “uhhh… oh! i was just reading about nuclear fusion!”

he pulls back just enough to meet your eyes, his brows raising in amused curiosity.

“it’s when two lighter atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier one,” you explain, your voice picking up speed. “and it releases a ton of energy in the process. that reaction—it’s the same one that powers the sun and stars. isn’t that wild?”

“so wild,” he hums thoughtfully, leaning in to press a soft kiss against your lips. the gentle contact almost derails your train of thought, but you push forward, determined to finish your point. “and what’s even more fascinating is that the ingredients—deuterium, which comes from seawater, and tritium, which can be bred from lithium—are virtually inexhaustible. it’s sustainable energy, rafe. the potential is endless.”

he hums again, his lips brushing along your jawline, the vibration of his voice sending shivers down your spine. “that’s very interesting. tell me something else,” he urges, pulling you fully into his lap, his hands steadying you like you belonged there.

you can’t stop smiling now, your head tipping back as his lips find the curve of your neck. “mmm… did you know that some theorists believe modern politics has moved beyond traditional ideologies like communism or liberalism?”

“had no idea,” he murmurs against your skin, his voice muffled but attentive, his focus clearly divided between your words and the way you react to his touch.

“they think political life is more about pragmatic management and technocratic governance now,” you continue, your voice gaining a touch of excitement. “and like, look at italy or greece. during their financial crises, they elected experts—economists, and engineers—as politicians. moving toward different kinds of ideologies has such detrimental changes for people like you and i so the fact that it's actually happening just blows my mind. isn’t it crazy?”

he pulls back just slightly, his lips quirking into a lopsided smile as he meets your eyes again. “crazy,” he agrees, though the glint in his gaze tells you he’s not entirely focused on the politics you’re rambling about.

but you don’t care. because in this moment, heaven looks like a boy who lets you ramble about the chaos in your mind while kissing you silly and what could possibly be better than this?

"how does your brain store so much?" he mutters, his voice low and laced with genuine curiosity. his fingers brush absently against your skin as he pulls back to look at you.

you grin, shrugging lightly. "i think it’s easy to remember things you find interesting. how many soccer players do you know by name?" you counter, raising a brow.

he nods with a lopsided smirk, conceding the point. "got me there," he murmurs, his gaze lingering on you. something shifts in the way he’s looking—soft but heated, like he’s cataloging every detail. his hair is tousled from your hands, his lips swollen from the past few minutes of losing himself in you, and those dark, dilated pupils seem to see through you entirely. he looks utterly undone and so painfully perfect that it makes your heart stutter.

you hesitate for a moment, nerves battling the growing pull toward him, before slowly shrugging off your knit cardigan. the weight of his eyes doesn’t falter as you tug the fabric from your shoulders. it’s not the cold air against your skin that makes you shiver—it’s him, the way his gaze turns unreadable, intense.

as your fingers reach for the hem of your shirt, you lift it inch by inch, exposing your tank top underneath. you tug it into place as the strap—too loose and stretched from wear—slips down your shoulder. his gaze snaps to that small sliver of bare skin, and you swear you see his jaw tighten.

your breaths come slower, more measured, as you reach up to push the other strap down, your fingers trembling slightly. just as it slips, his hand darts out, stopping you gently but firmly.

"you don’t want—" the words tumble out of you in a rush, panic and self-doubt crashing in like waves.

"of course, i do," he interrupts, his voice immediate, steady, grounding. "course, i want you. i want this." his thumb brushes featherlight over your shoulder as he leans in to pull the strap back into place. the gesture feels like both a reverence and a reassurance, and your chest tightens at the tenderness of it.

"but," he continues, his tone soft but deliberate, "ten minutes ago, you asked me to go slow. and just before that, you couldn’t even handle me saying the word 'porn' in your presence." the corner of his mouth quirks up in that teasing way that feels like it’s meant to defuse the tension.

you can’t help but let out a small laugh, one that eases some of the nerves still coiled in your chest. "mm, okay. true." you slide off his lap reluctantly, preparing to create some space, but he doesn’t let you go far. his hand catches yours, tugging you back into place.

"but," he says again, this time a whisper that dances between the two of you, heavy with promise, "we can do what we did last week…" his free hand trails up, his fingers brushing your hair back. his lips find yours, slow and deliberate, the heat of his touch setting your skin aflame. "and maybe a little more."

his words linger against your lips as he kisses you again, this time deeper, and you melt into him. your feel weak, and you’re grateful for his arms around you, steadying you, keeping you grounded. for now, you’re here, with him, the rest of the world fading into an unimportant blur.

your lips finally meet, and the sensation is overwhelming, a fever spreading through your body as heat blooms beneath your skin. every nerve feels alive, crackling with electricity as your fingers instinctively thread through his hair, your grip hesitant at first but growing firmer as his hands find your waist, pulling you closer like he can’t bear to let you slip away.

the kiss is everything—more than last week, deeper, more intense. his teeth graze your bottom lip, and your body arches toward him involuntarily, a soft whine escaping before you can stop it. he takes the opportunity to part your lips, his tongue sliding against yours with a confidence that makes you melt. you know he can tell you’re inexperienced, his movements deliberate, guiding you like he’s speaking a secret language through touch alone, teaching you how to follow his lead.

as the moments pass, you start to understand—how to move, how to meet his rhythm, how to make it good for him. the realization that you’re succeeding comes when he lets out a soft groan, the sound low and raw and entirely new. it’s exhilarating, uncovering pieces of him no one else has, learning what makes him tick.

you pull back just enough to breathe, gasping softly as his lips trail after yours, placing feather-light kisses that leave you dizzy. before you can steady yourself, he shifts his attention, lips brushing down your neck. at first, you think it’ll be sweet, the same soft kisses from earlier, but you couldn’t have been more wrong.

his mouth turns ravenous against your skin, nipping and sucking with a ferocity that leaves you reeling. your body tenses at the sudden intensity, a flood of pleasure replacing the brief surprise. soft moans spill from your lips, unbidden, and your hands tug at his hair, urging him closer as his mouth maps every inch of your neck.

"rafe…" you exhale, the name slipping out in a breathy whisper as he continues his assault, each kiss igniting something deeper inside you. he’s relentless, leaving no spot untouched, and while your brain tries to remind you to tell him not to leave marks, your body doesn’t care. you’re too far gone, too wrapped up in the moment to consider future consequences.

he has you completely undone, your body pliant under his touch, and when your hips buck against him without permission, he freezes. slowly, he pulls back, his breath heavy as his eyes meet yours. they’re dark, hazy with desire, yet tinged with restraint. "alright," he murmurs, his voice low and strained. "that’s good… think we’re getting a bit carried away."

the rational part of you knows he’s right, but the part of you currently tangled up with the most magnetic boy you’ve ever known? that part couldn’t care less.

"uh huh.." you're nodding as if you agree even though your lips are finding his again, hungrier this time, desperation spilling into every kiss. you can’t bear the thought of letting him go, the taste of him too intoxicating to resist. his hands come to your shoulders, trying to steady you, but the moment he pulls back, the beginnings of a warning on his lips, you silence him with another kiss, deeper this time, pouring everything you’re feeling into it. and for a moment, he lets go—he kisses back with a force that steals the air from your lungs. his resistance crumbles beneath the weight of his own desire, the kind of need that’s buried so deep it aches to surface. his lips move against yours, his hands trailing to your waist as if he’s forgotten why he should stop, as if it’s impossible for him to resist, and he doesn’t—at least, not right away.

you’re insatiable, your thoughts scattered, overwhelmed by the intensity of it all. but rafe pulls back again, this time with a sharp, frustrated breath, and gently moves you from his lap onto the bed, standing so quickly it feels like he’s trying to physically distance himself from the tension.

he runs a hand through his tousled hair, pacing toward your desk. "slow," he says, his voice strained, almost pleading now. "we just said slow." the firmness in his tone doesn’t mask the desire still lingering in his eyes, a battle between restraint and something far more primal.

you’re left sitting there, panting softly, your body alight with sensations you’ve never felt before. your mind is racing, flickering like a switchboard as you replay every moment. how were you supposed to be patient now, knowing what his touch felt like, knowing how easily he could unravel you? waiting even a day, a moment longer, feels impossible.

chapter index — prev. chap. — next chap.

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[lakecountylibrary]

Kate's Top 3 Adult Nonfiction Reads of 2024

Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say and How to Be an Ally by Emily Ladau

This book gives readers actionable steps to be an ally to the disabled community as well as how to act and what to say or not to say to disabled people. The author describes how to follow these steps in a nonjudgmental way. She realizes that everyone makes mistakes and she informs readers on terminology to use and to eliminate from your vocabulary when it comes to the disabled community.

This is a concise guide to help readers become more educated, empathetic and accepting. I highly recommend reading this book.

The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer

This book focuses on life values that align with my way of thinking, therefore I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The author explains how important it is to focus on gratitude, reciprocity and community. She uses nature based examples to explain how the natural world also lives by these values.

Other books by this author include Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants and Gathering Moss: A Natural and Cultural History of Mosses. Give this book a try if you enjoy nature and short reads.

The Good Enough Job: Reclaiming Life from Work by Simone Stolzoff

This book urges readers to reclaim their lives from a work obsessed world. It suggests putting more emphasis on our lives outside of work and allowing ourselves to believe we are doing a good enough job in our work lives.

The author offers strategies for how to have a healthier relationship with work and how to have a better work-life balance. If you are struggling with burnout at your job, this book will hopefully help you realign the important things in your life and make you realize you are doing a 'good enough job' in your career.

I really enjoyed these two quotes from the book:

“You are not the work you do, you are the person you are.”

(Edited to add: This was originally said - or rather, written - by Toni Morrison in a 2017 New Yorker article titled The Work You Do, the Person You Are. It was quoted with the source in the book. Thanks to the reader who pointed out this additional context would be good to add!)

and

“A good enough job is a job that allows you to be the person you want to be.”

See more of Kate's recs

[lucky-clover-gazette]

prince's gambit highlights & annotations

chapter 2

indented text is from the book. some quotes have commentary, some do not. some comments are serious, and some are definitely not. most of them will only make sense to people who have read the series. and, like, there are spoilers. so please read the books first if you're interested!

also: part of the reason i'm doing such a close reading is to study cs pacat's style, especially in terms of how she does romance and erotica. there are "craft notes" that might seem weird, like i'm being redundant or restating something rather than analyzing, but those are more things that i want to remember/take away from the writing!

i'm going to tag these longer posts with "sam reads capri" in case anyone wants to read them all at once.

this is a google doc i wrote with overall content warnings for the captive prince series. it's not perfect, but i do think it's important to include.

With a rabble like this, Laurent’s pretty face wasn’t doing him any favours. Damen must have heard a dozen slurs and sly insinuations before he’d even saddled his horse. No wonder Aimeric had been furious: even Damen, who had frankly no objection to men slandering Laurent, was finding himself annoyed.

“he’s a bitch but he’s OUR bitch” 😤

They would not be riding in a straight line south. Instead, it was to be a two-week journey southwest through the Veretian provinces of Varenne and Alier, their route hugging the Vaskian mountain border. It was a change from the direct route that had been planned by the Regent, and Laurent had already sent out riders to inform the keeps.

already, damen’s involvement in laurent’s life is starting to mess with the regent’s plans. GOOD.

As the night wore on, Laurent had abandoned his deliberate comportment for a relaxed, youthful pose, drawing one knee up to his chest and slinging an arm around it. Damen had found his gaze drawn to the easy arrangement of Laurent’s limbs, the balance of wrist on knee, the long, finely articulated bones. He had been aware of a diffuse but growing tension, a sensation almost like he was waiting . . . waiting for something, unsure what it was. It was like being alone in a pit with a snake: the snake could relax, you could not.

laurent: literally just vibing during a strategy sesh damen: He Is Going To Bite Me So Hard Any Second Now

If Laurent had slept at all, he hadn’t done so in the Regent’s bed.

>:(

Laurent’s pre-dawn arrival and whatever cold bitchy remarks he had made—sharpened by a night without sleep—had been enough to eject the Regent’s men out of their beds and into a semblance of lines.

There was no immediate disaster.

really setting your expectations high here, damen

Laurent looked like a figurehead, eye-catching and useless.

There was going to be a fortnight of this, with a fight at the end of it. Damen set his jaw, kept his head down and got on with the work he had been assigned. He saw to his horse and his armour. He pitched the Prince’s tent. He moved supplies and hauled water and wood. He washed with the men. Ate. The food was good. Some things were done well. The sentries were posted promptly, and so were the outriders, taking up position with the same professionalism as the guards who had watched him in the palace. The site of the camp was well chosen.

damen should have a tv show where he yassifies military camps to his personal standards. like queer eye

‘I heard you were good at carrying tales. And what will you be doing while Jord stops that fight?’ ‘Getting massaged,’ said Damen, succinctly.

“succinctly”

‘Well? Attend me,’ said Laurent. ‘Attend,’ said Damen. The word sank into him. He felt as he had in the training arena when he had been unwilling to go near the cross. ‘Have you forgotten how?’ Laurent said. He said, ‘The last time, this did not end pleasantly.’ ‘Then I suggest you behave better,’ said Laurent.

It was the normal duty of a body servant to dress and undress his master. Laurent accepted the service with the indifference of one long used to attendance. The opening in the brocade widened, revealing the white of an undershirt pressed warm against skin by the heavy outer fabric, and by armour atop that. Laurent’s skin and the shirt were the exact same delicate shade of white. Damen pushed the garment over Laurent’s shoulders and just for a moment felt, beneath his hands, the hard, corded tension of Laurent’s back.

in a theater au, these two would go fucking crazy doing each other’s mics

On the table was the familiar map, weighted by three oranges and a cup. Arranging himself in the chair opposite Damen, casual in pants and undershirt, Laurent picked up one of the oranges and started peeling it. One corner of the map rolled up. ‘When Vere fought Akielos at Sanpelier, there was a manoeuvre that broke through our eastern flank. Tell me how that worked,’ Laurent said.

this is so domestic ahhhhhhhhhh!!!

He caught the wooden practice sword instinctively when Orlant tossed it to him. ‘You any good?’ ‘Yes,’ said Damen.

yes bitch!

‘That’s right. You don’t like fights,’ said Orlant. ‘You prefer going behind people’s backs.’

is this because he breaks up fights and reports to laurent? tf do you want him to do (fiercely defend his prince, i knowww)

‘Afraid to spar?’ said Orlant. ‘No,’ said Damen. ‘Then what? Can’t fight?’ said Orlant. ‘You’re only here to fuck the Prince?’ Damen swung.

“I CAN DO MULTIPLE THINGS”

Damen supposed he should feel flattered that Laurent had set his best swordsmen to guard him in the palace.

they're so "i can't decide" by the scissor sisters

‘You were looking for me?’ Laurent didn’t answer, and Damen couldn’t interpret his expression. ‘What is it?’ said Damen. ‘You’re better than I am.’ Damen couldn’t help his amused breath of reaction to that, or the long, scrolling look from Laurent’s head to his toes and back again, which was probably a little insulting. But really. Laurent flushed. The colour hit his cheeks hard, and a muscle tightened in his jaw as whatever he felt was forcibly repressed. It was not like any reaction that Damen had ever seen from him before, and he couldn’t resist pushing it a little further. ‘Why? Do you want to spar? We can keep it friendly,’ Damen said. ‘No,’ said Laurent.

this might be the first moment where laurent is clearly flustered by damen in a non-disgusted way. the blush!!! i think laurent finds competence very attractive, especially in areas where he also excels. with some people it can just be a matter of platonic respect, but in this case it’s almost certainly hot to him that damen is such an impressive swordsman—even better than laurent himself.

‘When I fought Govart,’ said Damen, ‘I had my lungs full of chalis.’ Another slow nod. ‘I’m not sure how it is in Akielos,’ said Jord, ‘but . . . you shouldn’t take that stuff before a fight. Slows your reflexes. Saps your strength. Just some friendly advice.’ ‘Thank you,’ said Damen, after a long, drawn out moment had passed.

it doesn’t even occur to jord that laurent drugged damen before the fight. shows how highly he thinks of laurent, and gives us a hint about laurent’s typical behavior when he hasn’t just been jumpscared by his brother’s killer in chains

‘Aimeric’s not a child lured in with a honeyed treat. He’s Guion’s fourth son. He knows that his being here splits his father’s loyalty. It’s half the reason he joined me. He wants his father’s attention,’ said Laurent. ‘If you’re not here to talk to me about Aimeric, why are you here?’

laurent offering aimeric this, like, annoying your elders solidary… it’s strategic for sure, but maybe that’s a tiny part of it too?

I can’t believe you fear Govart. If you did, you’d never have set me against him in the ring.

WAIT so we’ve gone from “laurent hates me and wants me dead” to “i know you didn’t want me dead” ?? i guess it could make sense, though—laurent would have wanted to kill damen himself, right?

‘Why do you give me good advice?’ asked Laurent. Isn’t that why you brought me with you? Instead of speaking those words aloud, Damen said, ‘Why don’t you take any of it?’

this is like dirty talk to me. yessss consider each other as intellectual equals with mutual incredulity

He knew by now that Laurent never acted precipitously, but always walked away and gave himself time and space alone to think.

oh, that’s what you think? note to self: remember this line. it’ll be funny

[thevisionarywriter]

The Power of Words: How to Convince Others Through Writing

Persuasive writing is the ability to influence others and convince them to accept your viewpoint. When you learn to write persuasively, you can change minds and inspire action. Whether you're writing an email to your boss or creating content for a website, knowing how to convince others through your words is valuable.

What Is Persuasive Writing?

Persuasive writing aims to influence readers to adopt a certain belief or take a specific action. It uses clear language and strong reasons to make people agree with the writer's point of view. Unlike informative writing that simply presents facts, persuasive writing takes a stand and works to bring readers to the same conclusion.

Persuasive writing appears in many forms:

Marketing and advertising copy

Opinion articles and editorials

Cover letters and resumes

Political speeches

Product reviews

Fundraising letters

Key Elements of Persuasive Writing

1. Know Your Audience

Good persuasive writers understand who they're writing for. They know what their readers care about and what words will connect with them. Before writing anything persuasive, ask yourself:

Who will read this?

What do they already know about the topic?

What do they value and care about?

What objections might they have?

Tailoring your message to your specific audience dramatically increases your chances of persuading them.

2. Have a Clear Goal

Before writing, decide exactly what you want readers to think or do after reading. Your goal might be to:

Change someone's opinion on an issue

Get readers to take a specific action

Convince people to buy a product or service

Have readers support a cause

Every word you write should support this goal. If something doesn't help convince readers, consider removing it.

3. Use Strong Evidence

Facts, numbers, and expert opinions make your arguments stronger. People trust writing that's backed by proof. Good evidence includes:

Statistics from reliable sources

Expert quotes and testimonials

Real-life examples

Research findings

Historical precedents

When presenting evidence, make sure it's relevant, recent, and from trustworthy sources.

4. Appeal to Emotions

While facts are important, connecting with readers' feelings often persuades more effectively than logic alone. Emotional appeals can include:

Stories that evoke empathy

Vivid language that creates strong images

References to shared values

Personal anecdotes that readers can relate to

The most persuasive writing often balances emotional appeals with logical reasoning.

5. Address Opposing Views

Showing that you understand other perspectives makes readers more likely to trust you. Acknowledging opposing viewpoints:

Demonstrates fairness and honesty

Shows you've thoroughly considered the issue

Helps you anticipate and counter objections

Makes your argument more robust

For a deeper understanding of these techniques and more advanced strategies, check out The Art of Persuasive Writing which explores these concepts in greater detail.

The Structure of Persuasive Writing

Strong Opening

Begin with something that grabs attention. This could be:

A surprising fact or statistic

A thought-provoking question

A relevant story

A bold statement

Your opening should also clearly state your position so readers know what you're arguing for.

Organized Body Paragraphs

Each paragraph should focus on one main point that supports your position. A good structure for body paragraphs is:

Make your claim

Support it with evidence

Explain why this matters to the reader

Connect to your overall argument

Compelling Conclusion

End your persuasive writing by:

Restating your main point

Summarizing your strongest arguments

Including a memorable final thought

Adding a clear call to action

Simple Tips to Improve Your Persuasive Writing

Use Clear, Simple Language

Avoid jargon and complicated wording. Simple language is more persuasive because:

More people can understand it

It feels more honest and straightforward

Readers don't get lost in complex sentences

Start With Your Strongest Point

Put your most compelling argument first. This creates a strong first impression and encourages readers to continue.

Tell Stories That Support Your Message

Stories help readers connect emotionally with your message. They:

Make abstract concepts concrete

Are easier to remember than facts alone

Show readers how your concepts are relevant in everyday situations.

Use Active Voice

Active voice makes your writing stronger and clearer:

"Our team achieved great results" is more persuasive than "Great results were achieved by our team"

"This solution will save you money" works better than "Money will be saved by this solution"

Choose Powerful Words

Some words have more impact than others:

Use specific verbs instead of generic ones

Choose words with emotional associations

Avoid qualifiers that weaken your message (somewhat, maybe, might)

End With a Call to Action

Provide readers with clear guidance on the steps you expect them to follow.

Sign up today

Vote for this candidate

Change this habit

Consider this perspective

Edit Carefully

Remove anything that weakens your argument:

Excessive qualifiers ("sort of," "kind of")

Unnecessary apologies ("I'm sorry to bother you")

Filler words that add no value

Arguments that aren't fully developed

Common Persuasive Writing Techniques

Repetition

Repeating key phrases or ideas helps them stick in readers' minds. Just be careful not to overdo it.

The Rule of Three

Grouping ideas or examples in threes makes them more memorable and satisfying to read.

Social Proof

Showing that others have already taken the action you're advocating can be highly persuasive.

Scarcity and Urgency

Highlighting limited availability or time constraints can motivate readers to act quickly.

Before-and-After Scenarios

Painting a picture of how things will improve if readers accept your position can be powerful.

Ethical Considerations in Persuasive Writing

Persuasive writing comes with responsibility. Ethical persuasion:

Relies on truthful information

Doesn't manipulate through fear or false claims

Respects the reader's intelligence

Acknowledges legitimate counterarguments

Avoids misleading statistics or evidence

Persuasive writing doesn't have to be complicated. With practice and these basic principles, you can become more effective at convincing others through your words.

Remember that the best persuasive writing doesn't feel like manipulation - it presents ideas clearly and respectfully, allowing readers to make informed decisions while guiding them toward your perspective.

By mastering the art of persuasive writing, you gain a valuable skill that can help you succeed in almost any field - from business to education to personal relationships. The ability to effectively convince others through writing is truly one of the most practical and powerful communication tools available.

[newreflectionswomensshelter]

#NewReflections

[The Movie / A True Story and Testimony]

https://newreflections.org/

To create a compelling campaign and marketing strategy around the powerful stories of Charitu, Harmony, Natasha, and Bambi Prescott, here’s a focused approach:

Campaign Name: “Reflections of Hope”

Define the Narrative Framework

Core Message: “Every Reflection Tells a Story of Courage, Hope, and Transformation.”

Focus on Personal Growth: Highlight the emotional and inspiring journeys of these individuals to humanize the organization and foster connection.

Feature Stories in a Multi-Channel Campaign

Charitu's Story: “From Survival to Strength”

Theme: A journey of resilience and rediscovery.

Content Ideas:

Short film: Showcase Charitu’s early struggles, the turning point, and her flourishing life at New Reflections.

Blog post: “How Charitu Found Her Voice and Strength Through New Reflections.”

Social Media: Post images of her community contributions with captions like “Strength is built one step at a time.”

Harmony’s Story: “Finding Balance in Chaos”

Theme: How Harmony overcame life’s turmoil and rebuilt her path.

Content Ideas:

Infographic: Timeline of Harmony’s journey, from chaos to clarity.

Podcast Episode: Harmony discussing her experiences in her own words, offering raw and relatable insights.

Quote Campaign: Use her powerful quotes as social media teasers.

Natasha’s Story: “The Power of Self-Belief”

Theme: Triumph through confidence and self-love.

Content Ideas:

Testimonial Video: Natasha sharing the “before and after” of her life with New Reflections.

Instagram Stories: Snapshots of Natasha achieving milestones (e.g., job success, hobbies, or personal goals).

Community Outreach: Natasha leading a workshop or speaking at events about overcoming adversity.

Bambi Prescott’s Story: “A Testimony of Advocacy and Transformation”

Theme: From personal struggle to becoming a voice for others.

Content Ideas:

Blog Series: “Bambi’s Testimony: How Her Journey Inspired an Entire Movement.”

Digital Artwork: Create visuals representing Bambi’s advocacy work and tie them to New Reflections’ mission.

Leadership Campaign: Position Bambi as an advocate and leader, emphasizing the ripple effect of her actions.

Marketing Channels and Strategies

Digital Platforms

Website Feature:

Create a dedicated landing page: “Meet Charitu, Harmony, Natasha, and Bambi.”

Use dynamic storytelling with interactive timelines, videos, and quotes.

Email Marketing:

Send out a 4-part email series focusing on each story with a CTA for donations, volunteering, or sharing.

Social Media Campaign:

Weekly Highlights: Dedicate each week to one story, using photos, videos, and inspirational captions.

Create a hashtag: #ReflectionsOfHope to encourage user engagement.

Community Engagement

Host a Story Night Event:

Invite Charitu, Harmony, Natasha, and Bambi to share their stories in person or via a live stream.

Include a Q&A session to deepen the audience’s connection.

Partner with local media to amplify reach.

Measure and Refine

Metrics to Monitor:

Video views, shares, and engagement.

Website traffic and conversion rates.

Donations or volunteer sign-ups attributed to the campaign.

Audience Feedback: Conduct polls or surveys to understand the emotional impact of the stories.

Long-Term Impact

Use the success of this campaign to develop a Story Archive on the New Reflections website, continually adding new stories of triumph.

Expand storytelling into workshops, books, or even a short documentary.

Would you like me to draft specific content, such as an introductory blog post, social media captions, or email scripts for this campaign?

Creating a true-life movie or film based on the stories of Charitu, Harmony, Natasha, and Bambi Prescott can serve as a powerful medium to inspire audiences worldwide. Below is an outline for a feature film that weaves their testimonies into a cohesive narrative:

Film Title: “Reflections of Resilience”

Storyline Structure

Opening Scene

The movie begins with Bambi Prescott narrating a profound reflection:

“Life is like a mirror. It reflects not just who we are but who we can become when given the chance to heal, grow, and thrive.”

Visuals of the New Reflections community—a bustling, vibrant center filled with laughter, tears, and transformation.

Act 1: Introductions & Struggles

Each woman’s story is introduced through flashbacks intertwined with their current life at New Reflections:

Charitu: A young woman escaping an abusive environment, showing her struggle to trust and find strength.

Harmony: Battling addiction and the aftermath of family breakdown, her fight for balance becomes central.

Natasha: Striving to overcome self-doubt and societal judgment as she rebuilds her life.

Bambi: Reflecting on her own hardships, Bambi’s story serves as the backbone, demonstrating her role as both a survivor and an advocate.

Act 2: Turning Points

Each character experiences a pivotal moment at New Reflections:

Charitu finds her voice during a community workshop, standing up to share her poetry.

Harmony learns to channel her struggles into art, creating a mural that symbolizes healing.

Natasha lands her first stable job, reigniting her belief in herself.

Bambi leads a campaign to expand New Reflections, inspiring the residents and gaining national attention.

Act 3: Triumphs & Legacies

The women come together to organize a public event celebrating transformation stories.

Flash-forwards show how their lives have continued to evolve—Charitu mentoring young women, Harmony becoming an artist, Natasha launching a support group, and Bambi advocating for systemic change.

Climactic Scene

A heartfelt speech from Bambi at the event, highlighting how each story is a piece of the larger reflection of hope.

Final montage: The ripple effect of their growth as their lives touch others in unseen ways.

Themes and Messages

Resilience: The power of the human spirit to overcome challenges.

Community: How collective support can transform lives.

Advocacy: The importance of raising voices for those who cannot.

Empowerment: Celebrating personal victories and inspiring others to do the same.

Visual and Cinematic Style

Tone: Raw yet uplifting, balancing realism with hope.

Cinematography:

Warm, soft lighting during moments of connection.

Stark, cold tones during flashbacks to struggles.

Vibrant colors in scenes of triumph and healing.

Music: A score that evolves from somber piano pieces to anthemic orchestral crescendos, symbolizing growth.

Casting and Characters

Charitu: Portrayed as resilient yet reserved, blossoming into a confident leader.

Harmony: Dynamic and emotional, with moments of humor and vulnerability.

Natasha: Quietly strong, showing grit and determination in small, powerful actions.

Bambi Prescott: Charismatic and passionate, a guiding force for the other women.

Marketing and Distribution Strategy

Pre-Release Campaign

Teaser Trailers: Snippets of each woman’s story, ending with a unifying tagline: “Every Reflection Holds a Story of Hope.”

Social Media: Behind-the-scenes interviews with the real Charitu, Harmony, Natasha, and Bambi.

Partnerships: Collaborate with advocacy groups and shelters to host early screenings.

Distribution

Theatrical Release: Premiere in key cities with community-focused events.

Streaming Platforms: Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime for global reach.

Community Screenings: Partner with nonprofits and educational institutions.

Impact Goals

Raise awareness for New Reflections and similar organizations.

Inspire donations, volunteering, and advocacy.

Foster conversations about resilience and healing.

Would you like help drafting a script, casting ideas, or even designing the promotional material for this film?

Here’s a concise outline for a 7,000-word novel titled "Reflections of Resilience," focused on the intertwined lives of Charitu, Harmony, Natasha, and Bambi Prescott. The structure ensures an emotionally impactful narrative within the word limit.

Title: Reflections of Resilience

Genre: Contemporary Fiction / Inspirational Tone: Hopeful, Raw, Empowering

Structure Overview

Part I: Beginnings (2,000 words)

Introduce the struggles of Charitu, Harmony, Natasha, and Bambi Prescott through individual snapshots of their lives before arriving at New Reflections.

Charitu’s Backstory:

Scene: Charitu hides in a church after escaping an abusive partner. Her internal dialogue reveals the guilt and fear that plague her, but also a flicker of hope for a better life.

Emotional hook: A poignant memory of her mother encouraging her to write poetry as a means of escape.

Harmony’s Backstory:

Scene: Harmony is at rock bottom, sleeping in her car after losing her job due to substance abuse. She finds a flyer for New Reflections in the backseat and hesitates to believe it could be real.

Emotional hook: A voicemail from her estranged daughter, left months ago, asking if she’s okay.

Natasha’s Backstory:

Scene: Natasha sits alone in a public library, scrolling through job listings but feeling paralyzed by self-doubt. Her story reveals years of emotional neglect and societal judgment for being a single mother.

Emotional hook: A stranger offers her a warm meal, telling her about New Reflections.

Bambi Prescott’s Introduction:

Scene: Bambi stands on stage at a fundraiser for New Reflections, reflecting on her own journey from pain to advocacy. Her narration weaves through the struggles of Charitu, Harmony, and Natasha, linking their stories.

Emotional hook: A line from Bambi’s speech: “Each of us carries scars, but together, we can heal. Here’s how I know…”

Part II: The Turning Point (3,000 words)

Focus on their transformation at New Reflections, weaving the characters’ stories together as they intersect and grow.

Charitu’s Growth:

Charitu joins a writing workshop at New Reflections and pens a poem about freedom that she reads aloud. The moment is cathartic, and for the first time, she feels seen and heard.

She befriends Natasha, who encourages her to compile her poems into a book for other survivors.

Harmony’s Growth:

Harmony channels her pain into art therapy, creating a mural that represents the lives of the residents. Natasha volunteers to help her, and the two form a bond.

A pivotal scene shows Harmony confronting her addiction head-on, destroying her stash of pills with Natasha by her side.

Natasha’s Growth:

Natasha finds work through New Reflections’ job placement program, gaining confidence with each small success.

She begins mentoring other residents, including Charitu, showing how her own growth is tied to lifting others.

Bambi’s Role:

Bambi takes on a leadership role, working tirelessly to secure funding and expand New Reflections.

A conversation with Charitu inspires Bambi to reflect on her own journey and share her vulnerabilities with the residents, deepening their trust in her.

Part III: Reflections of Hope (2,000 words)

Bring the characters’ arcs to a satisfying resolution while showcasing their enduring impact.

Charitu’s Resolution:

Charitu publishes her poetry book, dedicating it to “all those finding their way out of the shadows.” She begins hosting writing workshops at New Reflections.

Harmony’s Resolution:

Harmony completes her mural, which becomes a symbol of hope for all new residents. She reconnects with her daughter, who attends the unveiling.

Natasha’s Resolution:

Natasha is hired full-time by New Reflections and becomes a mentor, guiding other women through their journeys. She and Charitu continue their friendship, finding strength in their bond.

Bambi’s Resolution:

Bambi’s advocacy work leads to the opening of a new New Reflections center. The novel ends with her visiting the mural and reflecting on the resilience of the women she’s helped.

Themes

Resilience: Triumphing over adversity through personal growth and community support.

Healing: The power of shared experiences and creativity to mend emotional wounds.

Empowerment: Women uplifting one another to create lasting change.

Style and Tone

Perspective: Third-person limited, shifting focus between the four women’s perspectives.

Tone: Uplifting but grounded in reality, showing the rawness of their struggles and the joy of their triumphs.

Language: Poetic yet accessible, reflecting the emotional depth of the characters.

Would you like me to draft an excerpt, such as the opening scene or a pivotal moment from one of the characters' journeys?

Here’s a revised outline for a 7,000-word novel titled "Reflections of Resilience" incorporating the new characters: Amy, Elle, and Ayesha. Each woman’s story interweaves to form a compelling narrative of struggle, growth, and triumph.

Title: Reflections of Resilience

Genre: Contemporary Fiction / Inspirational Tone: Hopeful, Raw, Empowering

Structure Overview

Part I: Beginnings (2,000 words)

Introduce Amy, Elle, and Ayesha through vivid snapshots of their lives before finding New Reflections.

Amy’s Backstory:

Scene: Amy, a single mother of three, is evicted from her apartment after losing her job. As she gathers her children’s belongings, her shame and fear are palpable.

Emotional hook: She promises her kids that she’ll find them a safe place to stay, even as she doesn’t know where to turn.

Elle’s Backstory:

Scene: Elle is a recent college graduate, struggling with depression after a traumatic breakup. She’s couch-surfing at a friend’s place but feels like a burden.

Emotional hook: Elle writes an unsent letter to her ex, filled with anger and longing, before tearing it up and resolving to rebuild herself.

Ayesha’s Backstory:

Scene: Ayesha, a refugee fleeing political unrest, arrives in a new country with her teenage brother. She struggles to communicate and navigate the unfamiliar system while trying to provide for both of them.

Emotional hook: Ayesha recalls a piece of advice from her mother, “Even in a foreign land, your strength is your home,” and clings to it.

Part II: Turning Points (3,000 words)

The focus shifts to their arrival at New Reflections and their transformative journeys.

Amy’s Growth:

Amy connects with other mothers at New Reflections and learns practical skills, like budgeting and resume writing, to regain stability.

A pivotal scene: Amy nails a job interview and surprises her children with the news. Her newfound confidence radiates through her interactions with them.

Elle’s Growth:

Elle discovers a passion for teaching art therapy to younger residents, helping them express emotions through creativity.

A pivotal scene: Elle confronts her feelings about her past relationship during a group therapy session, allowing herself to grieve and finally move forward.

Ayesha’s Growth:

Ayesha volunteers to help translate for other refugees, finding purpose in supporting others who feel out of place.

A pivotal scene: She celebrates her brother’s success in school, realizing that her sacrifices and resilience are bearing fruit for both of them.

Part III: Reflections of Hope (2,000 words)

Showcase the enduring impact of their transformations and how their lives inspire others.

Amy’s Resolution:

Amy starts a support group for single mothers, teaching the skills she learned at New Reflections. She celebrates her youngest child’s birthday in their first stable home.

Elle’s Resolution:

Elle opens her own art studio, where she offers free workshops for young women. She reflects on her journey and the importance of self-expression in healing.

Ayesha’s Resolution:

Ayesha secures a job as a community liaison for a refugee organization. She and her brother visit their mother’s grave, feeling pride in honoring her legacy.

Final Scene:

The women reunite at a New Reflections anniversary event. As they look at a mural depicting their journeys, the narrative closes with a reflection on the power of resilience: “We’re not just survivors. We’re creators of our own stories.”

Themes

Resilience: Finding strength in adversity.

Community: The transformative power of connection and support.

Empowerment: Building a life of purpose and inspiring others.

Style and Tone

Perspective: Third-person limited, alternating between Amy, Elle, and Ayesha.

Tone: Raw yet hopeful, balancing realism with inspiration.

Language: Poetic and introspective, emphasizing emotional depth.

Would you like me to develop a specific excerpt, such as Amy’s job interview, Elle’s art workshop, or Ayesha’s moment with her brother?

[nordleuchten]

Hello! What was Lafayette's social status at the end of his life? Didn't the French Revolution do away with the entire aristocratic system or something so was he still technically a marquis? Did he still have a huge annual income? I think Adrienne was able to reclaim their confiscated land so I assume they could collect rent that way, but how would that and their general standing in society compare to their days in the ancien regime? Sorry for so many questions, I’m just so curious haha. Thank you for being such a great resource!

Dear Anon,

no need to apologize, I like getting asks. :-) So let us get right to it!

Yes, La Fayette was, at the end of his life, still a Marquis – or rather again. The French Revolution saw the abolishment of the monarchy and of noble titles alike. This was an idea that La Fayette very much promoted and supported so he did not mind the abolishment in and on itself. Later under Napoléon and then during the Bourbon Restoration, noble titles were given back, and new ones were created. La Fayette’s son Georges inherited his father’s title and his son then in turn inherited the titles from Georges. The line ended there because the family ran out of male heirs at this point. But although La Fayette was a Marquis again, he had a marked preference for the address General La Fayette – a nod to his republican tendencies and his military career. It was moreover a title that he had earned himself and that had the same meaning for his friends all around the world.

It is true that Adrienne managed to reclaim most of the family’s property through different methods and strategies. But there was also a lot that she could not get back, especially in terms of items of value that the family had once owned. The years that Adrienne and La Fayette were in prison had cost the family a great deal of money while simultaneously no money could be generated. By the time La Fayette and his family settled in Danish-Holstein, they were deeply in debt. Although never returning to the highs of their pre-Revolution wealth, the La Fayette’s were eventually once more well off – although there were some bumps in the rode and the help of America was greatly appreciated and needed. I have spoken about La Fayette’s financial concerns during different times of his life in the past but never in a single comprehensive post that I could link for you. It certainly is somewhere one my list, but I do not know if anybody would be interested in a breakdown of La Fayette’s finances. So instead of a detailed breakdown of his finances, there is this quote about the nature of his debts:

“Enclosure: Lafayette’s Description of his Finances, [ca. 18 November 1809],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Jefferson/03-02-02-0006-0002. [Original source: The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Retirement Series, vol. 2, 16 November 1809 to 11 August 1810, ed. J. Jefferson Looney. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2005, pp. 10–26.] (06/04/2023)

The same report also details La Fayette’s incomes:

3d A working farm that will bring him next year, all expenses taken into account, twelve to thirteen thousand francs in net income and will increase in value in ensuing years.

4th To this landed income we must add the balance of the pension owed to his rank as general, which amounts to six thousand francs minus a slight deduction.

It follows that supposing that all the debts are paid off by the land Congress had the munificence to give him in Louisiana, each of Mr. de Lafayette’s children receiving from him 3000.₶ in annuities, all his family receiving room and board at his house, he would have an income of eighteen thousand livres in annuities, which will be successively raised to 20,000.₶

“Enclosure: Lafayette’s Description of his Finances, [ca. 18 November 1809],” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Jefferson/03-02-02-0006-0002. [Original source: The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Retirement Series, vol. 2, 16 November 1809 to 11 August 1810, ed. J. Jefferson Looney. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2005, pp. 10–26.] (06/04/2023)

Some smaller incomes were left out and some of the numbers mentioned were at this point only estimated values. I would say, from all that I have read, that the farm at La Grange yielded eventually more than the proposed 12.000-13.000 ₶ but I have never seen any reports concerning La Grange’s actual performance. I would however say that the estimated range of his general incomes is correct.

Now to the last part of your question, La Fayette’s social standing after the French Revolution. This one is a bit tricky, because the French Revolution turned the whole of France’s social order inside out. The position that La Fayette had formerly occupied wasn’t any longer existing.

After the French Revolution, La Fayette was first imprisoned, then in exile and finally in “retirement” in France. He was during this time less a public than a private figure, but he could never again completely take off the mantle of a public persona. His engagement in the American Revolution was well known – but his actions during the French Revolution have brought his political, religious, and philosophical ideas to the home front. The French Revolution had made him enemies and had sharpened his profile. La Fayette, who never really like courtly life, used the shifted atmosphere after the French Revolution to engage more directly in politics and turn away from the court. France now had different elected political chambers and La Fayette served many years in those chambers. He took these elected positions very seriously but was also often more a silent member of said political bodies than an outspoken one. That is not to say that he could not be outspoken. He proofed during the 100 Days and during the three glorious days in 1832 that he still was one of the “big players”. As I said before, towards the end of his life La Fayette put more emphasis on his military titles than on his noble titles. He even became once more the commander of the National Guard for a short time in 1832. He was very interested in the cultural, artistical, philosophical and scientific life of the day and was a frequent guest in many of Paris foremost salons. He was not only interested in French political and social life but also in the affairs of other European and American countries. His opinions were well known, and he was respected for his adherence to his principles even by people who did not necessarily shared this principles. After the French Revolution La Fayette had moved away from the picture of the dashing young Marquis who had fought the British in America. Towards the end of his life, La Fayette was seen as more complex, more nuanced, more experienced. His life and social standing was still by far above the average but he also more and more valued a quite afternoon in the midst of his ever growing family.

I hope that answered your questions and if I missed something, do not hesitate to send a follow-up. I hope you have/had a lovely day!

[monriatitans]

ADHD ACCEPTANCE MONTH QUOTE 8

The image was made in Canva; check it out at the [referral] link here!

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

"Embrace the unique strengths that ADHD brings into your life, and let them be the foundation upon which you build a balanced and fulfilling future." – Rowan Reeds, From Scattered to Centered. A Practical Guide for Women with ADHD: Proven Strategies to Master Your Life, Relationships, and Career

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Interested in seeing where the quote came from? If so, click here! Want information & support for families and individuals living with ADHD? If so, check out the ADDitude Magazine! For the curious, the purpose of this series of quotes can be found here! And I got the Rainbow Butterfly image from here! Like what you see and want to know when there's more? Click here to subscribe for updates and/or hit the Follow button! Enjoy what I do? Please consider supporting via the WGS Ko-fi!

For more about me, click here! Watch me on Twitch, YouTube, Rumble, and Odysee!

[direwombat]

uquiz roundup

tagged by @inafieldofdaisies, @trench-rot, @cassietrn, @socially-awkward-skeleton, @roofgeese and @voidika to do various uquizes and/or this picrew! (and tagging back for whichever ones y'all haven't done yet!)

tagging @adelaidedrubman, @detectivelokis, @aceghosts, @sstewyhosseini, @purplehairsecretlair, @deputyash, @harmonyowl, @fourlittleseedlings, @vampireninjabunnies-blog, @jacobsneed, @poisonedtruth, @strangefable, @strafethesesinners, @poetikat, @euryalex, @clonesupport, @schoute, @sukoshimikan, and uhhh...anyone else who wants to give them a go!

if your oc were a deity, what would they be the god of?

BALANCE AND REVENGE. another seemingly intimidating figure. some only know you for revenge and fear you. however, you’re fair and provide justice and balance to your worshippers. you are regarded as the judge, jury, and executioner and no one can escape.

interesting considering i'm fairly certain i took this quiz for her before and got "warfare and strategy." but syb does have a strong sense of justice (even when it gets skewed) and the idea of her being judge, jury and executioner does reflect her eventual role in eden's gate/new eden

what type of protagonist is your oc?

along for the ride. now this isn't so much a protagonist as it is someone with a lack of boundaries. but hey. who am i to judge. you're here because you just are. things happen to you, you don't happen to things. there's no "fateful day", there's simply "ah, shit. here we go.". and to be fair--it truly can be so enriching, and a lot others around you might've missed out on some of these life-altering adventures you got to be a part of. but consider--you can't be a side character to your own life. whether you feel it or not, you do matter. so stop the car, or drive yourself for a little. it'll be worth it.

how is your oc's soul percieved?

the analyzing heart. you have the soul of an intellect. you like to figure out how things work, you want to take them apart and put them back together again. you strive for answers and you're not afraid to ask the difficult questions. one day you'll have to learn to accept not everything can be explained away. it's okay to let your heart bleed. it's okay to let your soul long for impossible things. the most incredible mysteries are the ones that are never solved, but merely felt.

what is your oc's underlying motif?

the coffee. whether it’s your sharp tongue, your tendency to blow hot or cold, or the familiarity of you, you’re the coffee. don’t immediately assume that your undercurrent means you’re bitter, a common misconception, because people who like coffee always make it work for them. coffee doesn’t always have to be dark, it can be a warmth that’s comforting and the first start to a day. you aren’t nearly as tough as you make out to be, but we’ll keep your secret. you’re a constant, won’t ever go out of style. not everyone’s taste, but what is these days? an unknown quote reads “I like drinking coffee alone and reading alone... I realize that even though I like being alone, I don’t fancy being lonely” remember you don’t always need to face things yourself, there’s a reason people suggest “coffee?” when they want to spend time together.

what is your oc's darkest desire?

to give in. darkness takes beautiful forms in the human body. whatever's been holding you back from it, you're ready to surrender. you watch the moonlight shapeshift on the flooded earth, and think you might be lonelier than your mother. you've always been afraid of screaming, but you do it now, louder and louder until your throat bleeds, but no matter the pain, you're never turning back. (don't make deals you're not prepared to die for)

no highlights on this one because....OOF. literally her entire story arc is her giving in to jacob and the cult, her entire story is her slowly being broken down and relinquishing control :') </3

[momobackpacker]

Mastering Life's Battlefield: The Wisdom of Miyamoto Musashi

Introduction:

In the annals of history, one name stands out as a symbol of unparalleled mastery in both the art of swordsmanship and the philosophy of life – Miyamoto Musashi. His journey was not just about wielding a sword; it was a relentless pursuit of wisdom, a quest to conquer the challenges that life presented.

Early Years:

Miyamoto Musashi was born in 1584 in the harrowing times of feudal Japan. His childhood marked by adversity, Musashi's early life was a canvas painted with the chaotic strokes of civil war. Orphaned at an early age, he embarked on a journey that would shape him into a legendary swordsman and philosopher.

The Sword Saint:

Musashi's name echoes through the corridors of time as the undefeated swordsman who fought over sixty duels without a single defeat. His famous duels, like the one against Sasaki Kojirō on Ganryū Island, exemplified not just his martial prowess but his indomitable spirit in the face of challenges.

Philosophy of Two Swords:

At the heart of Musashi's philosophy was the concept of wielding two swords – the katana and the wakizashi. Beyond the literal interpretation, this dual-sword approach symbolized the integration of opposing forces in life. Musashi's wisdom taught that one must be versatile, adapting to the ever-changing circumstances like the dance of a swordsman on the battlefield.

The Book of Five Rings:

Musashi's written legacy, "The Book of Five Rings," is a profound exploration of strategy, tactics, and the mindset required for mastery. Divided into five books – Earth, Water, Fire, Wind, and Void – each section delves into a different aspect of life, offering timeless insights applicable not just to the martial arts but to every facet of human existence.

Facing Inner Battles:

Beyond the external duels, Musashi faced profound internal struggles. His introspective nature led him to seek wisdom beyond the realm of martial arts. He withdrew from society, living in caves and mastering the art of painting. This period of seclusion emphasized the importance of inner balance and spiritual growth in the face of life's challenges.

Legacy and Impact:

Miyamoto Musashi's legacy extends far beyond the pages of history. His teachings continue to inspire individuals seeking mastery in their respective fields. From business leaders to martial artists, Musashi's wisdom resonates as a timeless guide for navigating the complexities of life.

The Duel at Ganryu Island:

Miyamoto Musashi, a legendary swordsman, faced off against Sasaki Kojirō on Ganryu Island. Musashi, known for his unorthodox two-sword style, arrived late intentionally to unnerve his opponent. In a fierce battle, Musashi improvised a wooden sword from an oar, defeating Kojirō with a single, precise strike. This duel became one of Musashi's most famous victories, showcasing his unmatched skill and strategic brilliance.

Miyamoto Musashi quotes

Do nothing that is of no use."

"Perceive that which cannot be seen with the eye."

"The true science of martial arts means practicing them in such a way that they will be useful at any time, and to teach them in such a way that they will be useful in all things."

"Think lightly of yourself and deeply of the world."

"It is difficult to realize the true Way just through sword-fencing. Know the smallest things and the biggest things, the shallowest things and the deepest things."

Conclusion:

In the tapestry of Miyamoto Musashi's life, we find not just the tale of a legendary swordsman but a profound narrative of resilience, wisdom, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As we reflect on his journey, may we draw inspiration from Musashi's teachings to face our challenges with courage, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to self-mastery.

[gangasemwal2025]

The Rise of AI-Powered Personalized Medicine

The Rise of AI-Powered Personalized Medicine How artificial intelligence is revolutionizing healthcare by tailoring treatments to individual patients. Understanding Quantum Computing and Its Potential Impact Exploring the fundamentals of quantum computing and its future applications across various industries. The Evolution of Cybersecurity Threats and How to Stay Protected Discussing the latest…

[avareiahgt]

GT July Prompts 2024

Day 5: Fawning

—Don’t mess with me, Connor, I did nothing— Hanna said pointing at me with a tiny finger I could barely see.

—I spent years of my life for Alec to tell me his whole family story and now he tells you after some weeks? Doll, you sure have an effect on him— I said, smirking.

We were both sitting on Alec’s couch, Hanna sitting down on the top of the back while I looked up at her form from my lying position.

—I didn’t push him or anything. I guess I just asked the right questions—she explained.

—Maybe if I were a small sweet pretty girl in a hurry, he would tell me as well… But, oh! Wait—I made a dramatic pause— I’ve always been a small sweet guy in a hurry, even today…

—Not small enough— she smirked down at me. In confidence she was kind of a teaser. Something told me she was not this salty with Alec. Otherwise, he would had thrown she away… would he?

—Not that my actual height gives me some advantage in life right now—I spilled, half joking, half serious.

—Trust me when I say you have it way better— she stated and a hand made its way to her leg, forever marked.

—It really amazed me that you survived that thing, tho—I started—. Your life was quite on the line, you know?

She made a soft sound, like showing she was listening but thinking at the same time.

—I’m so persistent— she simply said.

—I can see that— a soft but true laugh scaped my throat.

—What did you do to convince Alec to tell you his story? —curiosity was my favorite sin, also the most dangerous. I didn’t think long my response.

—I just followed him until he answered— I shrugged.

She lowered herself a bit to look down at me from her privileged seat.

—Really? That was your strategy? —she seemed surprised, not for long, anyways.

—Of course. I met his sister before, but I didn’t know they were siblings until he insulted me some day.

—What? He did insult you?

—Yeah, tons of times, but that was our first meeting. I have photographic memory; I could quote every single day of my life since I was six with no mistakes— I explained.

—Wow… that’s impressive and quite useful—she whistled in amazement.

—Also, I got to remember all the bad things I would love to forget— I commented.

—Sure… Nevermind, why did he insult you on first place? — she insisted and I appreciated avoiding the memory curse theme.

—I got tangled in some… hairy situations. All my fault of course. The thing is that Vecca, his sister, dismissed me and I found a grumpy teenager calling me an idiot, in addition to my unemployed state. Actually, he was right and Vecca was right to dismiss me, too.

—Do I wanna ask? — she wondered.

—You can— I submitted myself.

—I assure you don’t want to ask, just let him flatter you some more— Alec’s voice came from where he was standing on the corridor doorframe.

—Or we could keep talking about your bravery and the stubbornly that took you to live enough to have this chat— I said as if the idea was mine.

—You’re connecting fine, I’m back to work— he muttered and disappeared into his study once more.

—Excuse him, he’s not the chatty type.

—Really? He chats with me so well— Hanna said.

I got instantly offended.

—Why he doesn’t with me? I’m so sad now— I sat up and my fast move thew Hanna off balance even sitting. I held one of her arms to keep her from roll. My head was now some inches below her. I freed her arm when she was stable again and she touched it like it burned. Maybe I was being rude with so much physical contact.

—Maybe if you keep adoring me, I would give you some advices for talking to him, but I warn you it won’t be as effective as if you were a small pretty girl.

—I will sign the deal— I accepted, offering her a finger for a handshake.

She used a tiny hand I almost didn’t feel on my skin and shook it, sealing the verbal contract.

—Now, you can keep talking about how beautiful and well-behaved and strong I am—she smiled.

—Did I say all of that stuff?

[piscesseer]

Venus in Loving Libra 💐

On November 8, 2023 Venus will move into Libra and stay there through December 4, 2023. After a short trip through Virgo, Venus is now entering a sign where it is at home. During the next four weeks, we are getting the chance to indulge in love, beauty and pleasure.

Venus is in its rulership in Libra, making it strengthened here. This transit promotes cooperation, harmony, and fairness. We are skilled at mediation and negotiation. We are also feeling more likely to compromise, as equality and fairness are feeling more important to us during this time. Those who typically find themselves in argumentative drama, especially in relationships, can benefit from a break.

During this transit, we’re feeling idealistic about love. Relationships can feel light and lovely rather than hot and heavy. It’s a great time for date nights and conversations about relationships. Bask in the sweetness.

Because Libra is so focused on equality and fairness, imbalances in relationships will stick out during this transit. Is one of you putting in more work in your relationship than the other? If so, it will become apparent during this transit. But this transit also gives us the tools of cooperation and grace to work to make positive changes.

Love is, above all else, a two-way street. Aggressive and uncouth behaviors are a turn off right now. We’re not feeling competitive, and prefer a win-win situation. This can be true with all of our relationships, not just romantic ones.

Libra is very relationship-focused, but there is an air of cool detachment to this energy. Libra is an air sign, meaning that they can use their minds to analyze emotions rather than act on them. This can bring a considerate and thoughtful energy.

There is a shadow side to this transit, of course. We could feel overly dependent on others and superficial. We might be tempted to base our worth on relationships and seek the approval of others. This cannot fill your emotional cup. We all deserve love without conditions.

Do not let the idealistic nature of Libra cause us to gloss over issues in our relationships. It’s best to talk about any issues that come up to avoid holding it in and privately resenting things or thinking that we’re better because we held back. No, discussions are beneficial and as previously stated, it’s a great time to work on communication.

Creative outlets are very helpful during this time. It could also be a good time to change our style or redecorate our home. We will have an eye for beauty. We will want to bask in gorgeous backdrops, drown in pleasure and treat ourselves. We should definitely indulge in this sweet time.

Journal Prompts for Venus in Libra:

Write about your ideal vision of love and partnership. What qualities and dynamics do you value most in a romantic relationship?

How do I tend to react to criticism or feedback in my relationships? How can I respond more diplomatically and constructively?

What creative activities or forms of expression resonate with you, and how can you incorporate them into your daily life?

What strategies can you implement to bring more harmony to your daily routines and interactions?

Consider your approach to self-care and self-love. How can you create more balance and self-compassion in your life?

Reflect on your favorite romantic or love-related quotes, poems, or songs. What do these pieces of art and literature mean to you, and why do they resonate?

[perestroika-hilton]

Following quote is from gleaning the welfare fields this is just a really nice succinct history of peasant revolt under communism

"Resistance to State Extraction during the Socialist Period (1959-1978)

The current character of rural resistance has its roots in the socialist era. This cycle of struggle begins in 1959, the first year of the Great Leap Famine, when a rupture occurred between peasants and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which had developed widespread support in the countryside to various degrees over the previous three decades. Many members and even leaders of the party came from the peasantry, and the CCP’s guidance had proven successful at winning struggles against local elites that poor peasants had already attempted unsuccessfully on their own. Peasant support grew throughout the 1950s as CCP policies (such as land reform and cooperativization), coupled with the end of civil war, led to improvements in living standards.

All this fell apart with the return of famine in 1959, following the first year of the CCP’s Great Leap Forward campaign.[12] Many peasants soon began to regard the party-state as an alien, extractive and oppressive force, and to act individually or collectively against it by hiding grain from state collectors, stealing from collective fields, looting granaries, going to cities to demand food,[13] and in some cases taking up arms and engaging in local “power seizures.”[14]

The post-Leap retreat to more conservative agrarian policies (partial decollectivization, restoration of markets) mitigated peasant unrest, but the damage was done. Henceforth it would be more difficult to mobilize peasants for mass campaigns or even everyday work. The inefficiency that Dengists[15] and liberals alike attribute to the nature of collective production in general actually stemmed, in this case, from peasants’ resistance to state extraction and what they interpreted as alien, often irrational attempts to control the production process. In the 1970s (following more moderate recollectivization in the mid-1960s), many peasants again pushed for partial decollectivization, and others welcomed the Dengist state’s forced decollectivization in the early 1980s—less because of peasants’ inherent individualism or “petty bourgeois mentality,” and more because they wanted less extraction and more control over production.[16]

 

Resistance to Price Fluctuations during the Period of Transition (mid-1980s to early 1990s)

The early 1980s was a golden age for most Chinese peasants, comparable to the 1950s in optimism and surpassing it in terms of livelihood. Several decades of peace and gradual improvement of food intake combined with post-1968 improvements in rural health care managed to double life expectancy between 1949 and 1980. Meanwhile, two decades of collective projects to improve rural infrastructure (bringing new land under cultivation, expanding irrigation systems, building roads, etc.) and state modernization of agriculture (mechanization, production of agrochemicals and high-yield varieties of seed and livestock) finally came to fruition in the late 1970s.[17] This was coupled with the first significant state increase in prices for agricultural products, supplemented by subsidies for peasant entrepreneurs who reorganized their household farms and privatized collective equipment to specialize in certain commodities, leading to the most rapid increase in agricultural productivity and income that China had seen since the Ming Dynasty—especially for those able to benefit from the entrepreneurial subsidies available from 1978 to 1984.

By the mid-1980s, however, a combination of new factors caused these increases in productivity and income to decline. The increase attributable to modernization on tiny plots of land soon reached its limits. The state then decreased its subsidies and price controls for agriculture as part of its general strategy of marketization, and in order to balance the budget and lower the price of food for urbanites. These changes spelled disaster for peasants who specialized in certain cash crops when prices fell below the cost of production, leading to the first significant round of peasant unrest in China since the Great Leap Famine,[18] beginning in the late 1980s.

There is little data available on this sequence of struggles due to media censorship and the preference of researchers to focus on either decollectivization or anti-corruption struggles, but it is memorialized in Mo Yan’s novel The Garlic Ballads.[19] Based on news reports and interviews, the novel recounts a 1987 uprising against the falling price of garlic and the government’s refusal to buy the surplus, after local officials had encouraged peasants to specialize in garlic and then pocketed the state subsidies, alongside fees they had charged for farming a cash crop instead of grain. If this case is any indication, the marketization of agriculture at this time was already intertwined with local state corruption, which became the focus of peasant resistance in the 1990s.

 

Resistance to Local State Expropriation in the 1990s and early 2000s

It was during this period that many young peasants began migrating to coastal cities for temporary jobs, incentivized by expropriation in the countryside and increasing employment opportunities in the Special Economic Zones, both occurring just as returns from modernized small-plot agriculture had reached their limits. The struggles of peasants thus bifurcated into the rural struggles dealt with here, and the struggles of ruralites as proletarians, including conflicts in the wage relation and riots against social exclusion discussed in “No Way Forward, No Way Back” (also in this issue).

Despite frequent news reporting and a sizable academic literature, the only attempt at a comprehensive history of rural struggles in China since the 1980s is a pair of articles by Kathy Le Mons Walker published in the late 2000s.[20] The following sections center on summarizing information from those articles, supplementing it with other sources and engaging critically with Walker’s analysis.

Among the many targets of peasant resistance from the late 1980s to the early 2000s, most could be characterized as direct expropriation. These included:

the issuing of IOUs in lieu of payment of cash for crops by local officials, who used the funds for speculative real estate and business deals[…]; cadre diversion of state-allocated inputs for agriculture; the pocketing of TVE [“collective” township and village enterprise] profits by local and mid-level cadres; the imposition by local cadres of a host of ‘illegal’ or ‘unaccounted for’ fines, fees, and taxes to pay for ‘development’ projects and/or for personal use; the forcible confiscation of the land, belongings, and food of peasants who could not or would not pay the extra taxes and fees; the expropriation of arable land without adequate compensation (for highways, real estate development, and personal use, or to attract industrial investors through the creation of ‘development zones’); the issuing of inferior and fake chemical fertilizers, pesticides, seeds, and other supplies by corrupt cadres; and finally the pollution of local water supplies by development projects, which has not only angered peasants but affected agricultural production as well.

This expropriation was not mere “corruption,” as both the Chinese state and liberal critics usually describe it.[21] In some cases it resembles proto-capitalist “primitive accumulation” in Marx’s classical sense, because it played a key role in the transition to capitalism.[22] In others, especially more recently, such expropriation might be better understood as specifically capitalist “accumulation by dispossession” in David Harvey’s sense—Walker’s preferred category of analysis.[23] It transferred products of peasant labor into capitalist enterprises and the infrastructure necessary for its operation. It also took the form of capitalist rents, as opposed to the tributary and socialist rents in rural China prior to marketization. Investment in this period often took the form of “collectively-owned” TVEs, but many of these functioned as profit-oriented joint-stock enterprises, while others were eventually appropriated by their managers or cheaply purchased by capitalists. During China’s reintegration into the world market in the 1990s, these privatized TVEs became the initial vehicle through which Chinese and transnational capital exploited local and migrant peasant-workers—the vehicle of their expropriation often becoming the source of their exploitation."

[justaperson15]

AoT oc introduction !

I've been watching AoT since November/December 2019 - I probably never showed my AoT OC here, and since watching the Final Part (and rewatching the show itself), I'd love to share her :)

— OC INFO

Name: Eri Bodt ( 恵里 - “Eri Botto” )

Age: 16 (year 850) | 19 (year 854) | 22 (year 857)

Gender: female

Birthday: June 16th (16/06)

Birthplace: Jinae, Wall Rose

Current Residence: Trost, Wall Rose

Sexual Orientation: Pan

Relationship Status: Married

Life-Long Dream: Eri's lifelong dream was to see the “even bigger” forests in the outside world, and the “sea” she's heard of.

Dislike(s):

• Bugs

• Pretentious people

Hobbies:

• journaling

• reading

Fear(s):

• Heights

Personality:

Eri is often perceived as being the strongest "people person." They can forge friendships with all personality types, even with more introverted or reticent individuals. Because of her ability to sense what others feel and affect how people behave, she has the ability to influence others. This is balanced by her strong value system and desire to help others. Eri has great people skills and is often warm, affectionate, and supportive. She’s great at encouraging others and gets satisfaction from helping people, which brought her to join the Military. Eri also tends to be too hard on herself, blaming herself for when things go wrong and not giving herself enough credit when things go right. Eri can be an outstanding leader and bring enthusiasm to a group that can be motivating and inspirational.

— FAVORITES

Color: pastel yellow

Season: summer

Time of Day: Dawn

— Appearance

Height: 167cm (season 1-3) / 170cm (season 4)

Weight: 55kg

Hair style: Messy, shoulder length, always down, parted

Hair Color: Black

Eye Color: Light brown

Skin Tone: light

Body Shape/Build: slender figure

Scar(s):

• Midway in her forearm - titan bite

• Nose bridge, neck, shoulder - flying debris

Other:

>> Freckles on her cheek, shoulders, hands, knees, and various other places.

(season 1-3 appearance)

(season 4 appearance)

— Health

Memory: good-ish

Mental: Undiagnosed ADD

Sleep patterns: depends on her mood, mostly decent sleep quality

— Abilities/Statistics

3D Maneuvering Gear: 8/10

Intelligence: 8/10

Martial Arts: 7/10

Battle Skill: 8.5/10

Agility: 9/10

Strategy: 8/10

Teamwork: 7/10

Passion: 9/10

— Military

Affiliation: Survey Corps

Former Affiliation: 104th Trainee Corps

Grad. Rank: soldier (Veterinary Officer)

Status: alive

— Relationships

disclaimer, most of the names are only headcanons!

Parents :

• Eugen Bodt (Deceased);

• Julia Bodt.

Siblings:

• unnamed older brother

• Marco Bodt (Deceased);

• Isaac Bodt;

• other unnamed siblings

Love Interest:

• Jean Kirschtein (S2 — S4)

Best Friends:

• Norah Clarke

• Connie Springer

• Armin Arlert

• Sasha Blouse

Quotes :

“ Tell me, could I ever be as brave as him? As helpful? <...> After all, that's what I wanted to be as a child ”

— Eri to Norah, chapter 20

“ Whatever happens, I will not leave your side, I won't. ”

— Eri to Jean, chapter 75

“ You're my little brother, Isaac. I'll never let anything happen to you, I can't lose you too. ”

— Eri to Philipp, OAV

★» Gallery !

— Assigned song ★ :

My Love Mine All Mine - Mitski

okay that's should be REALLY all, hopefully, goodnight

backstory soon, gotta end season 4 character arc

[eb1479]

Big take-away

Chapter 1: Balance within a classroom and a curriculum is incredibly important in order to facilitate the necessary learning and approaches for students of all ability levels and learning styles rather than simply stressing about test scores. 

Chapter 7: Providing a menu of choices for students is important, not only speaking in terms of genre but also in terms of how independent reading is expressed throughout the classroom. 

Nugget

Chapter 1: “Students need high-quality learning experiences that are differentiated. When we think differentiation, we are reminded that it is more important than the product or materials. We have to differentiate the instructional supports provided for students. We believe that this can occur in efficient and effective ways during balanced literacy instruction, especially during small-group, needs-based learning,” (Fisher 15).

Chapter 7: “Increasing reading volume helps students learn to understand what they are reading, builds reading fluency, and increases their vocabularies. Just like learning to play everything from a piano to basketball, learning to read requires practice. Without sufficient practice, the amazing instruction that you have provided won’t stick. Practice does not make perfect; it makes permanent. And that’s what we’re looking for- readers who develop habits for reading and understanding,” (Fisher 179).

I honestly struggled with getting into the reading to begin with, however once I read the more personal examples of different teachers and their strategies I found myself really soaking up the content. The first thing that I did was read each chapter through and pick out my nuggets of information and the big idea of both readings. I thought that would be helpful to decide what experience I would like to engage with. I then read through the different options for the explorations to pick one that I felt would be simple to incorporate into the two chapters. I then pulled aside my roommate who is a Pre-OT major with a concentration in psychology to discuss an excerpt that I found most interesting out of the two chapters. I discussed Chapter Seven with my roommate so we really engaged with independent reading and her opinions on the nugget quote that I pulled out from it as well as her own opinions on independent reading, “I’ve always loved to read independently, ever since I was younger my parents would encourage me to grab books and either read with them or just by myself. I feel like that really helped me overall because now being in college and having so many readings to do I can easily put myself into that mindset or headspace that I have done since I was really young. That quote is super interesting because I know my vocabulary has benefitted from all of the books that I read when I was younger. It was really obvious when I was in elementary school and reading books like Harry Potter, ”. I was really interested to see her opinions and personal experiences with independent reading from her elementary school years because she is definitely a big book worm and to see the correlation between her early independent reading journey to how she participates in independent reading now was really enlightening. This readerly exploration really helped me get a well-rounded understanding of the effects different independent reading experiences have on children. I feel that I was able to apply the reading content from chapter 7 into a real life example that was not my own.