#(the assertiveness was more for the strongly worded private message but Still. Still.)

[ratcandy]

you guys don’t even KNOW how many emails I’ve sent total this week

[thezombieprostitute]

Changing Minds - Part 5

Summary: Your long time work acquaintance Nick Fowler offers to take you to a fancy fundraiser as a way of cheering you up. He insists it's only as friends but when he sees you falling into the grasp of someone he knows is no good, he might change his mind on that.

Word Count: ~1.2k

Warnings: Implied violence and attempted murder. Please let me know if I missed any.

A/N: Reader is an older female (late 30's +).

Part 4 -- Part 6

Series Masterlist

You don’t get much sleep and finally give up trying when you get a phone call from your boss letting you know you’ve been given a week off to recover. You’re strongly tempted to dip into your regular time off and take a vacation but then you remember you’re being watched. Could you really enjoy a day on the town if someone’s trying to kill you or use you to send a message? Would you be able to relax at the beach if you know you’re not being protected by more than just Nick?

Ugh. Nick, you think bitterly. You know he couldn’t have predicted Mr. Kent’s interest in you. Nor the following incidents. But still, if he had just let you mope in private about your family issues, if he hadn’t been…if he hadn’t been the friend you really needed. You really can’t stay angry at him. You’re not ready to apologize to him, if you even need to apologize, but you’re ready to no longer be angry.

You walk back out to the main living area and it almost looks as if Nick hasn’t moved from his spot on the couch. The only reason you know he didn’t is because of the mug of tea in his hands. He’s staring at nothing. 

“Nick?”

Your voice startles him out of his trance. He spills a little of the tea in surprise and he realizes it’s been sitting so long it’s gone cold. “Yes,” he questions, “what do you need?” His icy blue eyes are practically begging you for ways to make things right. 

“Update from my boss, I’m not going to work for at least a week,” you report. “I don’t know if you need to tell your security team about that.”

“I’ll let them know,” he grabs his phone and starts texting. “They’ll still monitor, in case someone comes by looking for you, but it’ll help them prioritize.” You nod and he continues, “are you going to go right back to work after that or take some more time off?”

“I really don’t know,” you sigh. 

“That’s okay,” he quickly asserts. “We’ll take this a day or two at a time, okay?” You nod in agreement. “In the meantime, how about some food? We’ve got people watching your apartment so I can go get you some lamb curry from Shalimar. Or I can have someone else go pick it up, pretend it’s a GrubHub delivery.”

“How did you know I like lamb curry,” you interrupt him. “Specifically from Shalimar?”

“One or two of our conversations, we’ve talked about lamb,” he says. “Complaining about how difficult it can be to find at a reasonable price around here. I did some checking while you were asleep and Shalimar is the only place that delivers around here and has a reasonably priced lamb curry.”

“I’m impressed,” you admit, nodding your head. “Whichever option is safest, I would absolutely love some lamb curry.”

“Okay,” Nick gets up from the couch. “I’ll go and get it. Can’t have too many people in and out of the area lest one of our people gets ID’d. We’ve got Jake monitoring the security cams at your building’s doors and a couple of…bruisers are setting up in another apartment. They get a notice from Jake they’re at your door in seconds.”

You’re not sure you’re ready to be alone but you don’t want to tell Nick that so you just nod. As soon as he’s out the door you rush to lock it. You try to do some reading, make some tea, turn on the TV, anything to distract yourself but it’s not working. Every noise makes you jump and the silence isn’t better. You curl up into a ball on the couch and just wait for Nick to get back.

Nick is completely on edge the entire trip to the restaurant. He’s hyper-alert and constantly second guessing his perceptions. Is that car really following me or is it a coincidence? Was that shadow moving or am I moving too quickly? He’s continually checking his phone to see if there are any new messages, any texts that you’re in danger. He needs to calm down but he finds he can’t because he’s too scared about you. Specifically, he’s scared to lose you.

Yes, he was trying to play at being interested to keep you safe. Yes, you’re convinced that he has only ever wanted to be friends. But the bomb scare woke something up in him. You were in danger and he couldn’t get to you. He had failed you. In so doing, he realized he actually did want to be more than friends with you. His chaotic, hellish life was made so much more bearable with you around. Stable, kind, intelligent you. 

But now you were, justifiably, pissed off at him. He volunteered to get the food not because it was safer, but because he figured you needed your space from him. He kept screwing up everything and that was throwing him off kilter. He’s always been surefooted, careful, sharp. Now it felt like he was drowning in quicksand. He needed to get his head together if he was ever going to be able to pull himself out of this mess. 

Inside the restaurant he places his order to go, getting himself a little something to eat as well. He pretends to be interested in his phone while he waits, actually keeping a side eye on the door. He considers your requirements for the fake dating and remembers he should also get you a small gift. He ponders for a minute, looking around the restaurant before he hears his order number. He leaves the restaurant, still on high alert, but with a determination to make this up to you. To keep you in his life. 

You receive a text message from Nick saying that he’s back and he’s about to knock on the door. Sure enough, you hear two knocks but you still check through the peephole to be sure. You unlock the door and let Nick in. Along with the promised food, he’s also carrying a stuffed animal, a puppy holding a bone in its mouth. You can’t help the little “aww” that escapes you, seeing this dangerous man holding such a soft, adorable toy. He smiles a little and hands it to you. You don’t hesitate to take it and squeeze it tight. It helps you feel a little better. 

“Thank you for the gift, Nick,” you smile softly.

“Well, you said to bring a gift every time I see you.”

“I…I meant that as part of the fake dating thing. You didn’t have to start so soon.”

“I wanted to,” he asserts. “Especially if it’s something that might help you.” 

You see the pain in his eyes, see the sincerity written all over his face, so you nod and whisper “thank you”. The two of you eat your meal in silence, just some background noise from a show you pretend to pay attention to. You’re still not ready to tell him you feel safer with him around. You don’t know you’ll ever be ready for that. But this is a nice step towards that. 

Part 4 -- Part 6

Series Masterlist

Tags:

@alicedopey

@jaqui-has-a-conspiracy-theory

@rebekahdawkins

@texmexdarling

If you'd like to be tagged, please let me know.

[psapphic95]

Regina knew she shouldn’t have spoken in anger. She knew before she said it, but she didn’t realize the weight of her actions until she saw her sweet babygirl fall apart right in front of her. Time stood still as she watched her lover, best friend, and little girl crumble before her eyes. Within the same breath Emma picked up her own pieces and carefully put herself back together without a word. The silence solidified what the girl would not say out loud. She didn’t need Regina, her mistress, or her Mommy. She never did. The blonde’s lips were pursed tightly as she would not hurt Regina in equal measure. Regina feared the stoicism she found in the green eyes that would not break their gaze into her own. Tears filled the stoic eyes but refused to fall. Regina waited with baited breath for what would come next.

“Well, thank you for the suggestion, Regina.” Emma spoke strongly. Hearing her name wielded off her baby girl’s tongue felt like a dagger through her heart. For all the time they’d known each other, in this moment Regina couldn’t help but feel they were strangers.

“Sweetie,” Green eyes grew cold at the term of endearment so Regina tried again. “Emma, I did not mean it that way. Please, princess, I would never-“

“You would.” Emma said plainly, as if there was not a statement more true. The certainty of the statement made Regina’s breath catch in her throat. “You did.” The blonde further asserted. Regina could not control the small sob that wracked her body.

“It’s fine. You shouldn’t have to apologize for how you feel.” Emma spoke so casually that Regina felt her regret bubble into shame that settled deep within her stomach. For as much as she needed control, she acknowledged in this moment she couldn’t have it. She didn’t deserve it. “Let’s just go to bed, okay?” Emma said before smiling a sad, soft smile. For a moment it felt like things may cool off.

As the two women made their way upstairs, Regina was rehearsing all of the one million ways she was going to apologize to her baby. However, when Emma stopped at her own bedroom door, Regina had a sinking feeling that maybe, just maybe, she may never get the chance to.

CRYING. IN. THE. CLUB.

Wowe!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is so amazing and so well written. My heart hurts as I can imagine this so well, so vividly. Well done, anon!!!

I really wanna write this chapter at some point (there are a few chapters ahead of it right now) so if you ever would like to come off anon and private message me, I'd be more than pleased if you'd like to write it together? Or, if you'd just like to let people read your beautiful take on this prompt then we can leave as it is!!!!

BIG forehead smooch 😘

[askjrd-blog]

QUEEN DESERVES ROCK'S ROYAL CROWN?

by Rosy Horid

Circus Magazine 19 January 1978

Freddie Mercury and Brian May Hawk their ‘News Of The World’

Freddie Mercury is no longer the leader of Queen. Has he been fired, you ask, or is he off to pursue a solo career? No it’s simply, with the advent of News Of The World LP (Asylum) the personality of the music and of Brian May, drummer Roger Taylor and bassist John Deacon have come across more strongly than ever before.

Those who have seen them on the recent US tour notice more than ever before that they’re a group comprised of four separate identities, not just a lead singer and background band. Freddie Mercury is delighted to hear it.

‘I’ve never considered myself the leader anyway,’ says irrepressible Freddie. ‘The most important person, perhaps.’ And guitarist May agrees.

‘Our separate identities do come to the fore on this album, on which every cut is completely different from the one before it and there’s no concept at all. Apart from each having contributed two tracks to the album, Roger and John have been much more involved in the playing. Roger plays rhythm guitar on some of his cuts (‘Sheer Heart Attack’ and ‘Fight From The Inside’) which makes sense, because he had a better idea of how he wanted it to go. John plays acoustic guitar on one of his as well (‘Who Needs You’). I played maracas on it. While we may not do it that way on stage, in the studio that makes more sense.’

Brian also does a lot more singing of his own songs on News, but he’s content to let Freddie do the singing on stage.

‘He’s a natural performer,’ asserts Brian. ‘He acts on stage as if he was born doing it. That’s great for us. We wouldn’t want it any other way.’

As May and Mercury emphasize, it’s not just musically that shifts occur in the group.

‘John keeps a very close eye on our business affairs,’ says Freddie. ‘He knows everything that’s going on and shouldn’t be going on. If God forsakes us now the rest of the group won’t do anything unless John says it’s all right.

‘Roger is very important to us in a different way. He’s always been an out-and-out rock & roll fan with no time to stop and think about music and that’s very good for us. Instinct. He’s also the one who is most aware of facets in music, and that’s essential in the band. If you listen to ‘Sheer Heart Attack’ on the new album you’ll see what we mean. It sounds like a punk, or ‘new wave’ song, but it was written at the same time of the Sheer Heart Attack LP. He played it to us then but it wasn’t quite finished and he didn’t have time to complete it before we started recording. That was three years ago and now. . .almost all these records you hear are like that period.’ And Roger now? ‘He was into punk for a long time, but he’s tired of it.’ More about the album later.

But if you still don’t believe no crown of ladership rests on the mercurial head of Freddie, it’s worth repeating his comment about the composition of the group.

‘If anyone left Queen, anyone of the four, that would be the end of Queen. We are four equal, interwoven parts. And the others just couldn’t function the same without each quarter.’

Queen have just finished a special tour of the states. Not the longest they’ve ever undertaken, by any means, but special nevertheless.

‘It was the first tour we’ve ever done without the support band,’ Freddie explained. ‘There was so much going on on stage that I doubt there would have been room for another band anyway. We have so much material we want to play for people now that it would have been far too long a concert. It’s hard enough anyway to know what to leave out: we’d like to play all the new material, but there are some things we just would not dare leave out or I think the fans would lynch us.’

It was the sort of tour most rock bands dream of doing. Brian agrees: ‘We’ve managed to get some of the most sought after halls there are, even though the tour was short. Most of them are places we’ve played before. In some cities we had to settle for second, alternative choice auditoriums – the thing was set up so fast. It was also a very compressed tour – 35 dates in six weeks. We did very large halls because we wanted to do a fuller show and our rig was about twice as big as ever we used before.

‘It provided a complete stage environment, with an extension stage, three trailers and enormous lighting gimmick not just for New York and Los Angeles. That’s why we booked big halls, so that we could give everybody the complete show. We first used our crown centerpiece at London’s Earl’s Court concert over the Jubilee. At the time, we didn’t envisage being able to take the crown on tour with us, but we managed to have it demounted into a portable object. And so we had it for all the gigs. It made the most ambitious backdrop we’ve ever attempted, but it was worth it. The fans seemed to enjoy it and they are what matter.’

That last remark of Brian’s is typical of the group’s attitude towards their fans, for they have one of the closest rapports with the fans of any in the business. The same cannot be said for their relationship to the music press, however, especially in Britain. In fact, many people thought the chart-popping single ‘We Are The Champions,’ was Queen’s way of telling the press in no uncertain terms that they’ve made it without them. Others thought it an arrogant statement about their rock supremacy. But how do they feel? First Freddie, who wrote the song:

‘Certainly it’s a relationship that could be, but I was thinking about football when I wrote it. I wanted a participation song, something that the fans could latch on to. It was aimed at the masses; I thought we’d see how they took it. It worked a treat. When we performed it at a private concert in London, the fans actually broke into a football chant between numbers. Of course, I’ve given it more theatrical subtlety than an ordinary football chant. You know me.

‘I certainly wasn’t thinking about the press when I wrote it. I never think about the British music press these days. It was really meant to be offered the musicians the same as the fans.

‘I suppose it could also be construed as my version of ‘I Did It My Way.’ We have made it, and it certainly wasn’t easy. No bed of roses as the song says. And it’s still not easy.’

Brian concurs, ‘You know, songs aren’t always about what the words say. Messages in songs can appear different. I always see that as the difference between prose and poetry. Prose can mean exactly what it says, while poetry can mean the opposite. That goes for this song. Freddie’s stuff is often tongue-in-cheek anyway, as you know. This song is very theatrical. Freddie is very close to his art. You could say, he’s married to his music, whether it’s ‘I Did It My Way’ or his ‘There’s No Business Like Show Business.’ I must say, when he first played it for us in the studio we all fell on the floor with laughter. So many people in the press hate us because we’ve side-stepped them and got where we have without them.

‘But there’s no way the song says anything against our audiences. When the song says ‘we,’ it means ‘us and the fans.’ When we did that special concert, the fans were wonderful. They understood it so well. I know it sounds corny, but it brought tears to our eyes.’

Freddie and Brian are unanimous on that: the spontaneous responses to ‘We Are The Champions’ really move them. But that is the kind of general response News Of The World has received because, as Brian may says, ‘It’s a spontaneous album. I think we’ve managed to cut through to the spontaneity lacking in our other albums. I have no apologies to make for any of our previous albums. We’re proud of them and wouldn’t have let them out if we weren’t. But I now feel some may have been over-produced, so we wanted to go with a more spontaneous rock & roll based album. It was nice to do something that didn’t need such intensity. For example, with ‘Sleeping On The Sidewalk’ we did it in one take because it just seemed right the first time. We like to think of the album as a window on an unguarded moment, not a set piece. Each cut seems to do that, from the participation songs to Freddie’s mood pieces. Even his numbers on the album are different, from his heavy ‘Get Down, Make Love’ to ‘My Melancholy Blues,’ which is just what it says.’

Brian admits that his own material is different too. But he still tries to keep his private life separate and out of his songs as much as possible.

‘If you don’t keep something back, it can be very bad for you.’

But for the band both the album and the tour are in the past and they have to look at the future. They got back to England on Christmas Eve.

‘My mother would have killed me if I wasn’t home for Christmas. I haven’t missed one yet,’ says Freddie. And the others felt the same.

It’s time for some stock-taking. We’ve all become businessmen,’ admits Freddie, ‘even though it’s against our better judgment. It’s something that always happens if you get successful. Being a musician is not just cutting discs, unfortunately. I wish it was. We’ve all got companies now, some connected to music, others not. I’m producing Peter Straker, I have my car company. . . and lots of other fingers in other pies. We must take some time off to get things in perspective, or things will start to go wrong.

‘Then there’s been talk of doing a big world tour – Britain, South America, Japan, and of course the States as well as lots of other places. But that won’t be until later in the year.’

So, American fans will have a chance to see Queen in 1978.

‘You must tell them not to be too greedy, thought,’ warns Freddie. They’ve already seen more of us than any other country.’

And what about a message for the American fans, Freddie?

‘They know we love them. Apart from that, oh, say something outrageous for me.’*

[mrbellamy-sir]

Aiming to be a leader in his own way - Musumen.’s Shirofuku on determination and the future

This is an interview from 22nd June 2016. Here’s the original link for the Japanese and the photo gallery.

I’ve done my best to translate it but I’m just a beginner so it might not be entirely accurate.

Born from an online video sharing website, the 10 member men’s idol group Musumen. is spearheaded by leader Shirofuku, who is making his first appearance on Livedoor News. Having achieved their goal of performing at Nakano Sunplaza in August 2015, Musumen. haven’t dropped their attack strategy, but are currently on a 47 prefecture nationwide tour and progressing to the next step. We asked Shirofuku to talk about his struggles as a leader, his relationship with the members, and even about his views on love and his private life.

Photography: Suzuki Daisuke

Interviewer: Hanamura Fumi

Hair and Makeup: Otsubo Manato

The moment he posted the video, his life began to change.

·         When was the first time you uploaded a dance cover to NicoNicoDouga?

Maybe 7 or 8 years ago? The first video I uploaded was a dance cover of Perfume. We’d started to learn the choreography from watching the music video and danced it by imitating them. (Laughs) When we first filmed it we didn’t really intend to upload it.

·         Really?

Yes, but we felt we’d danced it surprisingly well considering we barely practised. It was kind of a funny video so we discussed uploading it just in a joking way, but then we really did upload it. (Laughs) Watching it back, though, we really didn’t dance well at all…

·         Is it true that you didn’t have any dance experience until university?

It’s true. Actually, I only started taking proper lessons in the past year or so.

·         Please tell us how Musumen.’s formation came about.

In 2012 I appeared as a weekly MC on NicoNico’s live radio broadcast along with the Bakusho Comedians. From the beginning of the show I’d been talking about how much I liked Suzuki Kanon from Morning Musume.

·         By the way, how did you come to be a fan of hers?

I liked her from the time I saw her in the Morning Musume. auditions broadcast on TV. The other girls performed dances or music recitals, but Kanon alone performed a comedy sketch. Don’t you think that’s exceptionally brave? The things I like most about her are: her smile, her courage, and her singing voice. These 3 things really make me support her.

·         And then in the last radio broadcast you received a message from your beloved Kanon.

I was so excited! (Laughs) She asked me to dance their new single ‘Ren'ai Hunter’ as well. Up until then I hadn’t danced any Morning Musume. songs, but I knew I had to dance that one.

·         Was it difficult to find enough people to join you?

Rather than that, I felt a sense of responsibility to make it actually happen.

·         On 10th May 2012, the ‘11 boys dance to Morning Musume.’s 'Ren'ai Hunter’’ video was uploaded to NicoNicoDouga. Did you receive any response from Kanon herself?

I went to one of Morning Musume.’s handshake events, introduced myself as Shirofuku and told her I’d uploaded the video. (Laughs) After that, whenever we uploaded a new Morning Musume. cover, I would go to an event and tell her what song we’d danced to. It made me so happy when she said that she’d seen the videos.

·         Do other fans recognise you when you go to Morning Musume.’s concerts or handshake events?

People do sometimes say hello to me. Some have asked me to shake their hands before but I’m just a normal fan like everyone else. (Laughs)

·         Kanon graduated from Morning Musume. this May, but how did you feel when you heard the announcement?

My mind just went blank….before she graduated - Sorry, this will become a deep Hello! Project conversation, do you mind? (Laughs)

·         Please go ahead! (Laughs)

Before she graduated, the ace Sayashi Riho, who had been in the same generation, graduated. At that time, I had wondered whether Kanon might also graduate in the near future.

·         Ahh…

Every fan knows that one day they will have to accept that their favourite member is going to graduate, so I’d tried to prepare myself but… When it was announced, I really couldn’t believe it and became so miserable, I didn’t even post on Twitter for about 2 days… Now I just want her to be happy on the path that she has chosen, and even without her my love for Morning Musume. hasn’t changed, so I’ll continue to support them.

In the past he was always cross, but now…

·         Musumen. has now begun its 5th year of activities. Reflecting on that time, what are your thoughts?

From an outsider’s perspective, perhaps last year’s Nakano Sunplaza performance may seem to have been achieved surprisingly quickly, but for us those 3 years and a couple of months felt like a long journey.

·         Were there strong feelings?

At the end of the performance everyone was sobbing and we had no idea what was going on. (Laughs) I wish I could’ve savoured the Nakano Sunplaza atmosphere more. But we’ve only been there once so far, so I’d like to perform there for a second or third time.

·         How have things changed after Nakano Sunplaza?

The biggest change is that we decided to make Musumen. into our full-time jobs. Up until now we had to balance working for a company with our Musumen. activities. Preparing to focus entirely on Musumen., become professionals and work even harder than before has been the biggest change.

·         Has your viewpoint as a leader also changed?

Fufufu. Ah, sorry, I just remembered something funny. Recently the other members have been saying something similar, that I’ve mellowed out. (Laughs)

·         What were you like before?

I got angry often. (Laughs) I was so concerned with 'the group that I had brought together’ that obsessed over it too much and maybe didn’t appreciate everyone else’s feelings enough. Now I’m just teased by the members all the time. We have a very comfortable relationship.

·         Do you have any theories about how to be a leader?

I’m not very self-confident and, to be honest, even now I worry about these things, so I read various accounts and learn from those. I like to know what the leaders of other groups think.

·         How dedicated…

Ahahaha. But I know for sure that I’m not the type of leader to say, “Just follow me!” I have an ideal of what a leader should be, but since I’ve also started to think that it’s good to have lots of different types of leaders, I’ve become more at ease with myself.

·         Do you ask the members for advice when you’re struggling?

I’m the type of person who doesn’t like to ask for help when I’m struggling, be it with work or in my private life. It can be difficult sometimes, but I don’t want to show anyone my weaknesses. I’ve always been like that.

·         Musumen. are currently in the middle of their first 47 prefecture tour, but this year has been busy with things outside of the tour as well. With the launch of the official fanclub and the weekly broadcast on TV Saitama, you’re gradually increasing your activities.

Up until now we’ve focussed on our online activities, but we all felt strongly that we wanted to appear on TV so that more people could find out about us. Also, one day I want to say, “Good evening to everyone watching Countdown TV, we’re Musumen.!” (Laughs)

·         It seems the bond between members is growing stronger this tour.

When the group began we were just friends, but now that we’re doing this as a job, I hope we can be honest with each other, maybe argue sometimes, and grow. I want to make each of our dreams come true together with the other members.

·         And your dreams are gradually expanding.

There are so many things I want to do. This is just something I’ve been hoping for myself, but I’d like to do something like a musical as Musumen..

·         It must feel like you’re stepping into unchartered territory.

It really does, because there’s nobody to tell us how to do it. (Laughs) Right now we’re concentrating on our nationwide tour so that we can say thank you to all of our fans even in the rural areas. We’ll be visiting somewhere close to everyone so please wait for us there!

He wants to stand out, but he’s also too shy.

·         We’d like to know more about you, so if you could explain yourself in a few words what would you say?

Fufufu.

·         What are you laughing at? (Laughs) In a previous interview you said, “I’m usually quiet, but I’m passionate about the things I love.”

That’s true. I’m not very assertive so I’m not the type to kick up a fuss, and I enjoy having time to myself so I immerse myself in things I’m interested in.

·         You also said that the other members think your room is dirty.

That’s also true, I have nothing else to say about that. (Laughs)

·         What are your strong points?

I’m really bad at suggesting strong points, but I can think of loads of weak points…When this comes up in questionnaires, I usually put 'None’. If I really have to put something, I say that I’m quiet or determined, but that’s basically a nicer way of saying that I’m gloomy and selfish. My way of thinking has always been negative.

·         Really?

Fundamentally I have little self-confidence. As a child I wanted to stand out but I was also too shy, and I’m still the same now.

·         Were you a leader during your school days?

I was the kind of child who couldn’t put his hand up, even though I really wanted to. If someone picked me I’d pretend I couldn’t be bothered and just say, “Whatever,” but in my heart I was jumping for joy. I guess I was kind of sulky. (Laughs)

·         I thought you’d have had a more central role in the class…

I was more the type to sit quietly in the corner. I think that’s why people who used to know me are surprised when they see me now. (Laughs)

·         How do you like to spend your days off?

I don’t like early mornings, but I don’t want to waste the whole day, so I try to wake up at 9 or 10am when I can. I usually like to go to the cinema. Films are best seen on the big screen so the cinema is really great. Even if work finishes late, I still go there alone sometimes. …also I often go to the gym.

·         We heard that your body weight reached 59kg thanks to that gym habit!

That was true, but since we’re in the middle of the tour, I can tell that I’m losing weight again. We perform twice a day so our calorie expenditure is crazy, and sometimes we can’t find the time to eat…At the moment I’m desperately working to maintain my body weight.

·         If you compare yourself to the start, have you put on muscles?

I can’t really tell by myself, but people have started telling me that my build has improved. Especially around my shoulders and chest. I’m aiming to unashamedly strip for a gravure magazine one day. (Laughs)

Which Musumen. member would he marry?

·         Do you still live with the other members in the share house?

Actually we moved out of the share house recently.

·         So everyone’s in separate places now?

No, we all moved to the same block of apartments. All that’s really changed is we now have our own separate front doors. We still go out and come home together so it’s basically the same as it always has been. We sometimes bump into each other at the local supermarket too. (Laughs)

·         It must be reassuring to have the other members nearby.

I’m really scared of insects and have to get someone else to help me when one appears, so I’m really glad that the other members are close by. (Laughs)

·         Which member do you get along with the best?

I guess that’d be Tomitake. He’s the one I go out with most often. Our personalities are completely different but he’s easy to talk to.

·         There are lots of different types of people in Musumen., but who do you think is the most popular?

Hmm, I wonder…let me think for a moment please. (Brief thinking period)…… Tomitake, Nokkuso, Nibansenji or Forgeru. I think these 4 are well-liked.

·         I see. Please tell us why you chose them.

Tomitake is very talkative and takes care of you so he’s fun to be around. Nokkuso is similar, he’s the one who starts conversations so you don’t have to worry about that when you’re with him.

·         What about Nibansenji?

He’s slender, tall and handsome, like a character you’d find in a shoujo manga. He’s not the type to actively do something for you like Tomitake, but he won’t leave you on your own either. When it comes to him, even I sometimes think, “Well, what can you do? That’s Nibansenji,” so no wonder the girls find him cute. (Laughs)

·         And Forgeru?

He’s a stylish guy so he’d probably bring you along to a café or the latest popular shops.

·         If you were a girl, which member would you want to date?

I’d like someone who could take care of various things for me so…

·         So, Tomitake or Forgeru?

Mm, if you’d asked which member I’d marry the answer would be a bit different. If I were to marry one of them it’d be Nozakibento. He’s very reliable and I think he’s the most mature of all of Musumen..

·         …so you think about dating and marriage in different ways? (Laughs)

Ahahaha. I’m sure it’d be fun to date Tomitake or Forgeru, but I think it’d be different if they asked me to get married. It makes me kind of uneasy. (Laughs)

·         (Laughs) You didn’t mention him here, but what about Aoi?

To me Aoi is like a really cute younger brother, so I can’t imagine dating or marrying him at all. If I were a girl and there was a boy like Aoi in my class, I’m sure I’d like him, and if I were Aoi I think I’d get a bit cocky about that. (Laughs)

Imagining the ideal date plan.

·         Now we’d like to find out more about your views on love. What type of girls do you like?

Someone who can laugh without trying to play it cool. I like people who laugh with a lot of energy and don’t hide their mouths with their hands.

·         Suppose that you were dating someone. Please tell us your ideal date plan.

My ideas are kind of childish. I can’t really take someone along to see the beautiful night sky or to a fancy restaurant. Just imagining saying, “Shall we go and admire the night-time scenery?” is so embarrassing. (Blush)

·         Please feel free to give us a date plan that’s in your own style. (Laughs)

It might be cliché but I really like going to the aquarium, so I’d like to go on an aquarium date.

·         Where will your meeting place be?

……

·         You’re just going to meet on location?! (Laughs)

Fufufu. People often tell me that I’m the type who’ll never be able to get married, but I didn’t really consider going to pick her up at her house… I guess I just think about what’s the most convenient or efficient way to meet up. (Laughs)

·         I see. (Laughs) At the aquarium or the museum people go around at different speeds, but how about you?

I like to take my time to see everything and read all the information panels.  I’ve been to aquariums with the other Musumen. members when we visit places for our tours, but everyone rushes ahead of me. I’ve always thought they go too fast. (Laughs)

·         Which aquarium impressed you the most?

The Churaumi Aquarium in Okinawa. They have a huge whale shark in this massive tank. I was really moved because I’d never seen an animal that giant so close before. It really made me think about how small and insignificant humans are.

·         That’s deep… So where’s next after the aquarium?

……

·         Don’t tell me you’re going to end it there!? (Laughs) Let’s go for dinner!

This is one of my flaws but I’m not really bothered about food. I just go to places that are fast, cheap and tasty…

·         Like Gyudon?

Ahahaha. I guess something like that. (Laughs) That’s why girls who want me to do lots of things with them would be dissatisfied dating me.

·         Would you rather she be the one to lead you along somewhere?

Definitely, I’d be happier if she herself told me the places that she wants to go. Also I can help her out if she’s worried about home electronics! Since I’m pretty enthusiastic about electronics.

·         Home electronics?!

I really like them. I enjoy researching about different types, so when I was in middle school I got pamphlets from all the mobile network carriers and checked them down to the fine details. In my class I was the one to go to if anyone wanted information on mobile phones. I think I wouldn’t have lost out in knowledge even to an employee in a big store. (Laughs)

·         Wandering around the electronics shops sounds fun!

Yay!! It’d definitely be fun!! I like furniture too, so visiting furniture stores could also be fun…Maybe I can recover your impressions of me with this. (Laughs)

[fawnsean]

Halfway to Nowhere: Ch 1

A/B/O Septiplier fic

Summary: If only he were an Alpha... Jack found himself thinking that same line, over and over again, nearly every time Mark popped into his head.

Word count: 1832

Read ch 1 under cut or AO3

Chapter One: Just Friends

If only he were an Alpha. If only he were an Alpha.

If only he were an Alpha...

Jack found himself thinking that same line, over and over again, nearly every time Mark popped into his head.

It was hard not to. After all, he greatly admired his friend, not only as a person, but also as Mark being one of the reasons Jack had decided to start up YouTube in the first place. And Mark had all the qualities that one could hope for in a potential mate; he was strong, kind and caring to boot, and was just an overall genuinely good guy. Being attractive was just a bonus. A really nice bonus.

The only problem for Jack (other than the blaringly obvious 8,000+ km distance between them) was the fact that Mark was a Beta. Which wouldn’t have really been a problem, except for the fact that Jack was an Omega, and Betas and Omegas didn’t blend well together.

Betas made up most of the population, and were considered the ‘normal dynamic’ due to their vast numbers. And as the remaining smaller populations of Alphas and Omegas nearly always mated to each other, most Betas mated with other Betas. Betas who tried to mate outside their dynamic usually had falling outs within the first few weeks. There were certain qualities and characteristics that Betas both had and lacked that just didn’t click with those outside their dynamic.

These were facts that Jack was painfully aware of.

Part of him reasoned that it was for the best. After all, the two lived on completely different continents, thousands of kilometers apart. If they were somehow to get together, they would have to find an agreeable place to live under one roof. And while Jack was already deciding on a move, wanting a different change of pace from Ireland and all, LA just wasn’t his style. The city was too big, too busy, too noisy. It just wouldn’t work.

And besides, Jack looked up to and respected the Beta as one of his closest friends. In any situation where one party in a friendship wanted more out of the relationship, things could go south real quick. As the lines between ‘friendship’ blur into ‘potential mate’ territory it could lead to awkward encounters and the possibility of ruining the friendship entirely. Jack would never make a romantic move on one of his friends if the status of their relationship was at stake.

So maybe it was better this way. Better for Jack to be the pining Omega a great distance away from his friend and crush. And as much as he despised the distance, Jack secretly hoped it would help to quell his crush. The feelings were just getting too awkward to deal with. What kind of Omega was busy trailing after a Beta, anyways?

“You know, most Omegas your age have already settled down with their Alphas,” his older sister reminded him none-too-gently over the phone that night.

Jack sighed. “I know, Allison. But you also know I’m not looking for an Alpha to take care of me. I’m not ready to quit my job and become a full-time housekeeper with kids.”

Allison chuckled at that. “Yeah, you’ve always been pretty assertive. But I worry, ya know? I know ma and pa do, too. They just want to see you happy. We all do.”

“I know,” Jack mumbled, guilt leaking into his tone. He knew that his family loved him and wanted what was best for him, and Jack felt horrible for not being able to meet their expectations. He just didn’t want an Alpha the way they wanted one for him. His mind wandered yet again to Mark, and Jack had to physically shake his head to remind himself how impossible it would be for the two of them. “Thanks for always looking after me.”

“Of course,” Allison reassured, a chipper edge replacing the sombre tone her voice had taken when talking about their parents. “What kind of older sister would I be otherwise?” There was chatter in the background then, something that sounded like a crash, and was quickly followed by loud cries. “Uh oh. Will just knocked over my vase- dammit I liked that vase. I gotta go. Talk to ya later?”

“Sure,” Jack agreed easily. “Take care. Don’t scold Will too much.”

Allison huffed out a laugh. “I’ll try. Bye, Seán.”

After Jack said his goodbyes, his phone beeped, signalling the end of the call. He sighed again, setting his phone on his bedstand and settling deeper under the covers. As an Alpha, Jack’s sister had found her mate many years ago, and the pair already had four kids. It was another textbook example of Alpha and Omega couples working out as successfully as nature intended.

As an Omega himself, Jack was expected to settle down with a nice Alpha and raise lots of kids, as all Omegas were. And the older he got, the more that ideology only increased. Even though he was the baby of the family, Jack was starting to get up there in years. Most Omegas chose their mates around early twenties. Jack was nearly 27.

He grumbled to himself, rolling over in bed as he was reminded yet again of his upcoming birthday. The older he got, the more of a hassle it was to deal with people who insisted he hurry up and settle down. Even if they were his family and only meant good, it still bothered Jack to no end. He didn’t want to be some stereotypical Omega who stayed home and cooked and cleaned and tended to the kids before his Alpha mate came home from work. No. That just wasn’t Jack.

Jack was still very much invested in YouTube, and intended to keep making content for as long as his fans were willing to watch. He was sure that any Alpha that wanted to bond with him would have him try to quit YouTube and fall into the role of caregiver. That definitely wouldn’t be a thing that happened.

A buzzing sound snapped Jack from his reverie, whose hand quickly darted out from under the covers to snatch up his phone. Flicking on the screen, Jack took in the three new Skype messages. He tried to ignore the little flip his stomach did when he saw who they were from.

Markibutt: hey wanna skype?

Markibutt: oh shit wait it’s late there isn’t it

Markibutt: stupid time differences dammit

Jack chuckled, unlocking his phone and quickly typing out a reply to assure Mark that he was still awake and good for a Skype call. The incoming call barely had a chance to play its tune before Jack was clicking on the little green icon. One short loading screen later and Jack came face to face with his idol and friend. Well, kind of face to face. About as close as he could get.

“Hey, Mark,” Jack greeted, unable to stop the smile from forming on his face.

“Hey birthday boy!” Mark cheered back with a laugh, and Jack rolled his eyes good naturedly.

“Oh stop. That’s not for a couple more days,” Jack scoffed lightly.

“Oh, come on,” Mark whined. “You know you’re supposed to celebrate the entire week, right? It’s your birth week, sooo happy birthday!”

Jack snorted. “Thanks.” Mark was too ridiculous sometimes. Too cute.

“Got any big plans for your big day?” Mark asked, stupid, adorable grin on his face.

“Not really,” Jack admitted. “I might go visit my sister and her family, but I’m not sure I want to travel that far.”

“Does she live far or something?”

“About two hours out with traffic,” Jack sighed. “Probably will just end up staying home.”

“Interesting,” Mark mumbled seemingly to himself, looking off to the side in thought. “Very interesting.” Jack was about to ask Mark what the hell was so interesting about staying home alone on his birthday but the Beta quickly continued speaking, this time directing it at Jack. “So you’re finally joining the ranks of us twenty-sevens, how does that feel?”

“Like I’m getting fockin’ old,” Jack deadpanned, earning a hearty laugh from Mark.

Their banter went on from there, Mark teasing Jack and even going so far as to sing ‘happy birthday’ at the top of his lungs before Ethan ran into Mark’s room to shut him up. Jack laughed so hard he cried at that.

Eventually, as most conversations did, the tone changed as things gradually died down.

“So, you ready to settle down with a mate yet?” Mark asked, voice oddly strained.

“Ugh,” Jack groaned, tossing his head back on the pillows. “Not you too.”

Mark raised a brow. “‘Not you too’ what?”

“You’re the second person to say that to me tonight,” Jack grumbled. “I was talking to my sister before you. She, uh, basically said the same thing.”

“Hm,” Mark hummed, face carefully blank. “And what did you say?”

Jack huffed a sigh. “I don’t want to be taken care of by some Alpha like most Omegas do. I– I just don’t want that. I don’t think, anyways.”

Mark’s face softened on the screen. “And there’s nothing wrong with that.”

Jack’s breath caught in his throat. “Really?”

“Of course,” Mark said so casually, as though this topic weren’t something that Jack constantly fretted over in private. “Everyone moves at their own pace and everyone has different wants. We’re not like a hive mind or anything, completely controlled by our biology.”

Jack chuckled at Mark’s last comment, which he knew the Beta threw in there to lighten the mood. “Thanks, Mark.” He let out a yawn after that, stretching out tiredly on his many pillows.

“No problem, but hey. It’s super late there now, right?” Mark’s voice had taken on an edge of concern, and the Beta’s brows furrowed as Jack nodded blearily. “Then I’ll let you get some sleep. We can talk more later.”

Jack wanted to protest, and opened his mouth to reply but was cut off by another yawn of exhaustion. “Mmm, okay,” he mumbled reluctantly.

A smirk quickly lit up Mark’s face. “Besides, I’ve still got a few more days to sing you happy birthday annoyingly before the main event!”

Jack rolled his eyes but a smile found his lips nonetheless. “Sure, sure. Good night, Mark.”

“Night Jack.”

With a single tap of the red icon, Mark’s face disappeared from view. Jack whined out loud, immediately being filled with shame for reacting so strongly. Jack had felt relaxed and comfortable with the Beta’s presence, even though Mark hadn’t been physically present for the call. Without him chatting away through Skype, Jack felt his absence like a punch to the gut. Not talking with the Beta hurt.

And it shouldn’t, Jack mentally scolded himself, irate. There was no reason to feel so upset over a friend, a friend being all they were. Nothing more.

Jack was having a hard time trying to remind himself of that.

[jillmckenzie1]

We All Suck at Dating

A common lead question in the world of online dating is: “What are you looking for?”

Aside from being a grammatical nightmare, this question poses its own set of anxiety-ridden answers. Because how hard in the paint do you really go in response to this question when you’re on the third line of a burgeoning digital transaction? The words that your thumbs manage to string together will inevitably become the foundation for any further communication (or lack thereof).

Sidebar. Dude, didn’t you read my bio? It clearly states, “Looking for a real life human with whom to do rad things. Sucker for good teeth, nice calves, and witty banter. Here for the shirtless gym selfies (you guys, it’s a joke).” Seems pretty self-explanatory to me.

My typical response to the aforementioned question goes something like this: “Surely not looking to get laid off an app. And absolutely not interested in receiving dick pics. Would be great to find a real-life male with whom to do cool shit who also believes in hand-holding, ass-grabbing, Netflix binge-watching, and tag-team Whole Foods shopping.”

Once upon a time, I had a younger guy respond to this answer: “But does our age difference bother you?”

Cough. Cough. He clearly wasn’t aware of my subconscious bias towards younger men.

I replied, “Age is a number. Maturity is a barometer for compatibility. Why? Were you simply trying to send dick pics?”

*unmatch*

I’m sorry, WUT?! Respectable people say goodbye, or they’re not interested, or that they don’t find my humor to be as amusing as I do; they do not just act like [insert desired superlative here] and vanish into thin air (as if I wrote the book on this stuff or something).

Here’s the point. By all means, unmatch me. I don’t give any number of fucks about our premature termination of conversation. The guy I choose is going to choose me in return. He’s going to laugh at the fact that I attempt to turn him on by mentioning that I always return my shopping carts. He’s going to send me memes and screenshots of tiny houses. He’s going to share my affinity towards Mexican food and ask me for my LinkedIn profile instead of my SnapChat handle, and he’ll really mean it when he says that he’s not in search of a booty call.

At the end of the day, I have zero interest in entertaining a guilt-free ghoster. The issue here is the action. Because dammit, it’s hard enough out there. Can’t we all just play by some unstated rules that, at the very least, are governed by the premise of honesty?

I know. It’s asking a lot.

 But that brings me to my next point. About dating. We all suck at it. Yes, all of us. I’m actually quite amazed by how many of us seek to individually claim this title from every rooftop, blog post, and digital message warehouse. At the risk of sounding arrogant, I just don’t think there’s anything unique about it.

We. All. Suck.

A small bit of evidence exists in our mutual affection towards Netflix and chill. I’ve seen enough dating profiles in these last few years to make one overarching and absolutely assertive statement: when given the choice, we’ll all opt for a night spent on the couch in sweatpants eating ice cream with our dog over any nightclub and party scenario. Seriously, I have yet to encounter any male in the digital stratosphere who prefers the latter.

Because, in my humble opinion, no one wants to find his or her significant other in a bar. Absolutely not. For some, sure, the bar provides a perfect backdrop for the infamous one-night stand; I’m quasi-drunk and you’re quasi-cute (could be up for debate in the morning), so in the words of Marvin Gaye, “Let’s get it on.”

But a match–someone who challenges us and makes our lives a whole hell of a lot better (even on the worst days)–yeah, we’re not walking into any bars with the expectation of finding a soulmate.

And, despite our current aversion to commitment that is fueled by our unrelenting fear of missing out alongside our limitless access to infinite information and individuals, we do want a soulmate. Not because we believe in this antiquated ideology that only one person was made for us. No, millennials don’t walk into this world with the Shakespearian belief that compatibility is reserved for a single Romeo and his Juliet.

We more appropriately approach the definition of “soulmates” as two people who show up to participate in a revolutionized companionship. We are a generation that fully understands the power of choice, and we want to exercise this right romantically as much as we want to frequent farmer’s markets in lieu of spending our dollars at chain grocery stores. We believe in making ourselves whole, as individuals, in order to more powerfully stand beside someone who is doing the same. So, we choose ourselves as the catalyst to choose our other.

And yet, even inside of this space of a beautiful and raw and authentic desire to find a forever partner-in-crime, we’re still ghosting and we’re still sending dick pics. I’m sorry, rescind. We’re still sending dick videos. Yes, apparently, I graduated into some upper echelon of male debauchery.

Let me expand. A guy who I sparingly chatted with months ago decided to Snap me one lonely night in February (if you don’t know what “Snapping” is, keep it that way). I opened the video (which is the extent of my SnapChat proficiencies), and bam, hello, hi. My brain immediately hit overdrive as I considered throwing my phone 23 feet across the entirety of my Airstream.

I’m sorry, I haven’t spoken to you since November – neither did any previous conversation incite such ridiculous swapping of privates – and I’m now supposed to be the proud recipient of your amateur x-rated video?! Please, no. PLEASE NO.

Of course, I fired back something saucy (as if I’m going to save the world one indecent digital exposure at a time). And in the spirit of true chivalry (insert massive eyeroll here), he said that it was a mistake: “Wrong Stephanie.”

I actually can’t even (read: bull-fucking-shit).

But my potential diatribe inside an app that was literally designed to delete user history wouldn’t be saving anyone. My only hope at such a stage is the block feature because, at the end of the day, I simply don’t have time for this nonsense. Much like I don’t have time for the old flame (think college) who thought it was cute to slide into my DMs with questions about the kind of underwear I happened to be wearing. Or, the fact that exhibit B continues to patronize me with pet names (even after we established, months ago, that a romantic relationship between us would simply be settling).

Newsflash: y’all aren’t cute. YOU ALL ARE NOT CUTE.

And around we go, hiding behind our phone screens because we want the one (or at least one of the viable ones) to drop into our lives with the same level of excitement experienced by teenagers across America when Usher finally released his third studio album, 8701.

If you ask me, the going around is getting quite old. In fact, my motion sickness is at an all-time high. In the metaphor, I’m projectile vomiting out the back passenger-side window. Don’t ask me who’s driving. I don’t know.

What I do know is that I’m not puking alone.

Fact one. We’re drowning in our individual and collective nausea without any idea of how to stop the damn car. Or, at very least, slow it down. And we sure as hell don’t know where it’s going.

Fact two. Together, we are more powerful than the driver. But I’m not sure if we believe that (yet), and if we do believe it, I’m not sure that we know how to take control of the wheel (yet).

Because I would hate for us to resign ourselves to the fact that this whole dating thing is out of our control. I would hate for our desire of depth to become clouded by our habitual superficiality. I would hate for us to throw away our integrity in the name of conformity.

And I write this to us because I write this to myself. Plot twist, people. I, too, suck at dating. My judgment of those without an inkling of digital wit is embarrassingly high. It is standard issue for me to ghost anyone who resorts to asking me about my day within the first 24 hours of communication.

We just met. It’s fine. My day was fine. Am I supposed to tell you what I ate for lunch? Or about the conversation that I had with my mom? Or the hours I spent browsing Amazon for a new duvet cover?

Seriously, ask me anything else. And, please, I beg you, be funny. And charming (but not too charming). Our future depends on it.

Case in point. In a land far, far away, some guy asked me if I’d ever seen a movie titled La Strada. Clearly, not English. My answer was (and still is) no.

He wrote, “It’s foreign, so you have to be okay with subtitles.”

Well, no shit.

Me: “Great, I learned to read at a young age and quickly surpassed all of my peers, so this is promising.”

*crosses fingers and begs for a witty response*

His reply: “I like that answer. I need someone confident in what sets them apart.”

No dice.

*waves white flag*

I surrender. I absolutely surrender.

And by “surrender,” I mean that I simply fell off the face of the planet, never to associate with this poor guy (who probably had zero interest in sending a dick pic, let alone a dick video) ever again.

I just didn’t have it in me to push through in hopes of unearthing my very own Steve Carrell.

I’ll give you ten minutes. Make ‘em count. Effortlessly get me to laugh out loud, and I’ll strongly consider fraternizing as real-life people.

Hold up. Real. Life. People.

Yes, let’s be very clear, any digital union that transpires in human-to-human interaction is call for a good old-fashioned golf clap. Because it’s an anomaly by anyone’s standards.

So here we are. Together. Meandering through the airwaves and the land mines. Motion sick beyond measure. And I’d like to believe that we’re not helpless here, so my challenge is that we take control of the car. My challenge is that we align our actions and our words. Because there is nothing sexier than honesty. And honesty–honesty will save us. Also, humor. But mostly honesty.

We must be able to articulate for who or what we are looking. It is a common lead question because it is the question. It provides the foundation for action and expectation so, to revisit my initial commentary, we should go as hard in the paint as humanly possible (think Zion Williamson type shenanigans) in our responses. Because this answer allows us to proceed in a space where vulnerability is safe–whether we both swiped right in a sea of digital profiles or, quite literally, ran into each other in the singles line of our favorite chairlift.

You do not have to be in the search for serious. But you do owe the community your truth. The power is in your voice. And please, for the love of all things beautiful, let’s commit to considerate farewells that make “ghosting” so 2018 (as in, bye).

Speaking of bye and the singles line and chairlifts, I had to text my ex-boyfriend the other day to get back my second key fob for the entrance to my RV park

I refuse to pay the $20 for a replacement, okay. Judge me.

It had been nearly a month of not communicating, so you can surmise that it was a conversation that I’d been consciously avoiding. To be honest, I had stubbornly supported the idea that he should contact me first.

Obviously, unsuccessful.

So I spent hours typing and re-typing and then re-re-typing some ridiculous message that started with a Nugget update and ended with, “Oh yea, I need that key fob back.” I then spent hours deciphering and re-deciphering and then re-re-deciphering his response: “No problem. I’ll bring it to work and you can swing by one day and grab it when you’re done riding.” Please note, there is nothing cryptic here.

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little bit nervous to, once again, look our honesty in the eye. Our ease had existed in our shared interest of doing the work. We had used our voices. And we both believed in the power of a considerate farewell. Also, laughing, there was lots of laughing.

For all intents and purposes, we were great. Apparently, our timing was not.

I’m reminding myself that, at the very least, this relationship taught me that there is hope for our collective whole to be better. It was the catalyst for me to shed an intense layer of distasteful cynicism. And for that, I can willingly embrace the uncomfortable.

It’s just two minutes. It’s just a key fob.

 Dating. It’s still a game of numbers. And we simply need to, in all of our honesty, keep showing up.

Together, we can stop the suck.

from Blog https://ondenver.com/we-all-suck-at-dating/

[lucyariablog]

The ABCs of Connecting With Generation Z

It’s time to put away your avocado toast jokes and shore up your social consciousness, folks. Generation Z consumers have arrived, and they are forcing companies to rethink the terms of marketing relationships.

Born between 1995 and 2012 (though the precise years vary depending on the source), the post-millennial generation has begun to cross the threshold of adulthood and is poised to take over the workforce and the marketplace in the next few years. We’ve all heard the stories about how challenging it will be to forge strong bonds with this distracted and discerning demographic; industry pundits cite perceived short attention spans, disinterest in brand messaging, and general disregard for impersonal experiences as compelling reasons for marketers to regroup and refine their content strategies.

But how many of these broad characterizations are accurate – and which of this generation’s confirmed traits should content marketers focus on in their outreach efforts? Let’s take a look.

It’s their party (and they’ll buy if they want to)

Here’s what the generational research and anecdotal observations are telling us: Born with one foot firmly in the digital age and the other rooted in old-school values, members of this pivotal demographic group expect greater transparency, accountability, and personal validation from every online experience they choose to engage in.

Gen Z expects greater transparency & personal validation from every online experience, says @joderama. Click To Tweet

Why? Well, it should come as no surprise that a demographic colloquially called the “iGeneration” expects to see their personal needs and interests reflected in the experiences marketers create to engage them.

Further, if their high usage of social networks like Instagram, YouTube, and Twitch are any indication, social status and community mean a lot to them; they are more likely to seek content opportunities endorsed by their idols and influential peers (or which enable some form of collaboration with them). Need proof? Just 24 hours after Taylor Swift urged her 112 million-strong Instagram fan base to vote for Democrats in the mid-term elections, nonpartisan voter advocacy group Vote.org registered a whopping 65,000 new voters. Now that’s the power of persuasion.

Of course, the right branded content can still make it onto their radar; any extra effort it may take to produce and position such experiences is worth it, considering how much economic power this audience segment wields in the marketplace. According to Barkley’s Gen Z Insights Center, Gen Z already has up to $143 billion in direct buying power with the potential to impact more than $665 billion in family spending. Furthermore, this group is projected to make up 40% of consumers by 2020.

Gen Z is projected to make up to 40% of consumers by 2020 via @barkleyus. Click To Tweet

What will make a content experience more likely to click with these smart, savvy, and socially responsible digital natives? Read on for some helpful perspectives and ideas.

HANDPICKED RELATED CONTENT: Road Map to Success: Content Distribution Essentials That Win Eyeballs

What to expect when you’re connecting

In his recent Content Marketing World presentation on the subject of Generation Z, FutureCast President Jeff Fromm characterized this demographic group as “old souls in young bodies.” While they are digital, social, and mobile to the core, he says, their values are more strongly aligned with their baby boomer counterparts than those of the generation that came directly before them (millennials).

For example, though they don’t remember a time when all the world’s information wasn’t available to them in exchange for a little personal information, they have seen firsthand what can happen when you disclose private data without a thorough understanding of how that data might be used – or misused (Cambridge Analytica and the Equifax data breach are two examples that come to mind). As a result, they may be more reluctant to swap personal details for access to brand content unless your brand provides full transparency on what they are signing up for and what the risks and benefits are.

A 2017 Salesforce report, Trends in Customer Trust, supports this assumption, finding that among millennials and Gen Z 91% are more likely to trust companies with their personal information if they receive a clear explanation on how its use will deliver a better experience.

Consider: Marketers should cultivate a reputation of reliability they can trade on before expecting Gen Z to engage with and take action on content – a goal that Robert Rose has succinctly summarized: “You must win every moment of trust to win the moment of truth.”

You must win every moment of trust to win the moment of truth, says @Robert_Rose. Click To Tweet

Trust exists on a time clock

In his CMWorld presentation, however, Jeff, the man who wrote the book on marketing to Gen Z (literally) reminded marketers that any initial trust earned with this audience may be fickle and fleeting. Calling it “the trust trap,” he contends that brands can’t give lip service to the concept of trust; they need to build it over time, demonstrate their worthiness of it in tangible ways, and continually reinforce its worth to make a lasting impact on Gen Z’s perceptions and purchase behaviors.

One Gen Z favorite mastering the art of sustaining a value proposition is Ben and Jerry’s. Take its YouTube channel, for example. Among its videos that introduce new ice cream flavors, dairy-free products, and special recipes, entire playlists are devoted to raising awareness of important issues like marriage equality, climate justice, and getting a second chance in life – all of which feed fans’ love of ice cream while speaking to the credo that Ben and Jerry’s is a brand that’s “made of something more.”

HANDPICKED RELATED CONTENT: If Your Content Doesn’t Have This, the Majority Won’t Trust It [Research]

Let’s get “phygital”

Despite being raised in an environment of unprecedented digital connectivity, Generation Z is no stranger to feeling alone in the world. In fact, according to a 2018 research report conducted by Cigna, it may be the loneliest of all generations, with more than 50% reportedly experiencing feelings of social isolation.

But while their millennial brethren turn to online social networking to fulfill their need for human interaction, those in Gen Z may be more interested in filling that void with a new content construct: unique and differentiated experiences that bridge their physical and digital worlds.

Taking a “phygital” approach to customer engagement might just be the answer to marketers’ prayers when it comes to creating meaningful, content-driven experiences craved by Gen Z audiences. For example, Marketing Week recently offered a glimpse of how retailers like Caspar and Nike are delivering on shoppers’ heightened expectations for customized service by launching pop-up stores and augmented reality features that merge the benefits of their online and offline shopping environments.

Read: Marketing Lifehacks for Engaging Generation Z

Consider: According to cultural mythologist John Bucher, those in Gen Z likely gravitate toward these blended experiences because they allow them to experience something that’s hard to come by in their world: a chance to live in the “now.”

In his presentation on immersive storytelling at Content Marketing World, John asserted that the pressures of today’s tech-driven, always-on lifestyles have disrupted the natural sense of time and place. Because people have become conditioned to constantly monitor multiple sources of informational input at once, they are losing the ability to fully experience or process any one of them in isolation, or, in Bucher’s words: “We don’t hold space for the full realm of human emotion anymore.”

However, by creating immersive, multisensory, and mixed-reality content experiences – such as VR-powered video games, pop-up museums, escape rooms, and micro-theme parks – brands can counteract this detachment by removing external distractions while consumers are participating: “You put on a VR headset and you have no choice but to be fully present in the moment.”

Brands counteract detachment by creating immersive, multisensory content experiences, says @joderama. Click To Tweet

HANDPICKED RELATED CONTENT:

How Brands Use Pop-Up Experiences to Make a Lasting Impression

How Content Can Ring Up a Better Retail Experience

So shines a good deed in a weary world

Beyond data transparency, message consistency, and experience tactility, another quality Gen Z values in brand affinity decisions is a commitment to social causes like environmental protection, equal rights, and philanthropy. According to the aforementioned Trends in Trust data, 54% of consumers say demonstrated social responsibility strengthens their trust in a company.

Yet, according to Jeff, contributing to meaningful causes may earn Gen Z’s respect, but it may not be enough to earn their long-term business. As he sees it, the purpose space is so crowded that brands need to take their commitment to social responsibility to the next level – a concept he refers to as “purpose plus.”

Brands need to take social responsibility to next level – purpose plus – to attract Gen Z, says @JeffFromm. Click To Tweet

Consider: Naturally, content is an excellent technique for discussing important social issues that align with your brand’s core values. And its potential impact can increase exponentially when your business is willing to take a strong stance in support of those issues.

Nike’s Just Do It campaign featuring Colin Kaepernick is a perfect example of this practice in action (Patagonia’s Bears Ears documentary is another). The brand risked alienating its more socially conservative customers, but the decision to align its content with its core values seems to have paid off (at least, so far): According to MarketWatch, after a brief initial dip, Nike’s online sales skyrocketed, and the company’s stock valuation experienced a surge, as well.

Read: 3 Purpose-Driven Marketing Lessons From Innovative Brands

Clear the path to personal growth

Even if they aren’t completely accurate, some of the commonly held stereotypes about Gen Z’s engagement preferences may be rooted in reality (affinity for avocado, notwithstanding). And though a recent Forbes article cautions against generational reductionism (i.e., subscribing to broad behavioral stereotypes that are based on decontextualized data points) on the whole, it also offers some insights that may help marketers craft the authentic, personally resonant content experiences Gen Z seems to crave.

One interesting point the article raises is, “Generation Z has come of age in the shadow of millennials who prize hyper-competence (or at least the appearance of it), which … has manifested in a strong desire to learn.” The article goes on to explain that, more than the preceding generation, this group seeks opportunities to add or sharpen their skills.

Members of Gen Z seek opportunities to add or sharpen their skills via @Forbes. @joderama Click To Tweet

With this in mind, marketers may want to emphasize educational content – like product demos, online training courses, or process tutorials – that rewards their curiosity and helps them level up their competency in a relevant area of interest.

For example, through its Today at Apple program, the ubiquitous tech brand offers in-depth technical training sessions at its 495 retail stores. While these 30- to 90-minute classes are primarily focused on Mac-centric topics – like how to edit video using Apple’s proprietary tool sets – the skills participants learn can be applied to their broader life goals – like furthering a career in design or programming or impressing their friends with pro-quality videos on social media.

Read: Education as a Marketing Strategy: 8 Brands Doing Online Classes and More

Content conclusion

One thing about Gen Z – or any other generation – is that the best way to learn who they are and what content experiences they want brands to provide is to spend some time engaging with them on a personal level. Deploying an audience survey through email; sparking a community discussion on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter; organizing a focus group; or even just asking Gen Z coworkers for their ideas and opinions are a few ways you can gain valuable, real-world insights to inform your content efforts.

Before you think about adding your brand’s voice to the constant stream of conversations already whizzing across their screens, make sure you put in the time to listen to what Gen Z consumers have to say for themselves.

HANDPICKED RELATED CONTENT: Road Map to Success: Creating the Content of Your Audience’s Dreams

Miss the Content Marketing World sessions described above? Get access to all the 2018 presentations with an on-demand video access. Order today!

Cover image by Joseph Kalinowski/Content Marketing Institute

The post The ABCs of Connecting With Generation Z appeared first on Content Marketing Institute.

from https://contentmarketinginstitute.com/2018/10/connecting-generation-z/

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DAILY ASTROLOGY REPORTS AND HOROSCOPES FOR 4-14-17

ASTROLOGY TOOLS FREE NATAL CHART REPORT ABOUT CONTACT Astrology Cafe Daily Astrology

DAILY ASTROLOGY TODAY MONTHLY Astrology of Today – Friday, April 14, 2017

Apr 13, 2017 by ANNIE LEAVE A COMMENT



The Moon is in Scorpio until 6:26 AM, after which the Moon is in Sagittarius. The Moon is waning and in its Full Moon phase. The Full Moon occurred on the 11th in the sign of Libra, and the Last Quarter Moon will occur on the 19th. Mercury is retrograde (Mercury is retrograde from April 9-May 3). Venus is retrograde until tomorrow (Venus is retrograde from March 4-April 15). Times are EDT. Horoscopes Aries



The Moon’s move into your adventure sector today can be uplifting, dear Aries. While you may do battle with conflicting desires to tend to the hearth and break out on your own, the overriding theme of the day seems to be spiritual and emotional growth. Your ruler, Mars, forms a creative aspect with Neptune, reinforcing a need to let your imagination take you places you haven’t been for awhile. Compassionate acts may figure strongly now. There can be unusual dreams that seem to resonate more deeply with you than usual today, both of the night and day variety. Even on this day before a Venus station, which is often a little tricky, you can find reasons to feel inspired.

Taurus

Again today, you’re likely to rebel against the routine, dear Taurus, but you can also be quite private or a little withdrawn now. Some of you may be holding on to an exciting secret or simply enjoying more time to think and imagine. Mars in your sign in creative aspect to Neptune today can point to benefits softening your approach to pursuing a desire or asserting yourself. This is not necessarily about being conniving, but more about looking for creative ways to reach your goals, and with retrograde activity particularly strong on your sign, this can be especially helpful today. Tomorrow, Venus turns direct, but don’t be too quick to jump into action.

Gemini



The Moon’s move into your partnership sector this morning turns your attention to social matters, dear Gemini, with increasingly less emotional investment in your work and routine. Not all of the usual channels for expressing yourself and making connections seem to be working up to par, and this prompts you to find new ways of making things happen. You may be doing some creative maneuvering behind the scenes now and making some impressive progress. Venus turns direct tomorrow, but while it’s making this shift, it’s better to process and take in than to jump into anything brand new.

Cancer



This morning, the Moon moves into your sector of routines and daily affairs, dear Cancer, and you’re more likely to prioritize duties and order over fun and games. This is a fine day for applying yourself to something you deem worthwhile, but doing things completely to plan or in a conventional manner may not fare very well at the moment. You’re better off injecting imagination and spirit into whatever you’re doing. It’s a good time for creative ideas about the future, even if quite a few influences are turning your attention to the past these days. Patience is essential today.

Leo



This is not a day for doing everything by the book or according to schedule, dear Leo, but this doesn’t mean you can’t be productive. In fact, you are particularly creative in your approach to your work, bosses, or associates now. Not all of the usual channels for getting your message across are working out smoothly, but this puts you in the position to make the best of things – a place where you naturally shine. The Moon’s move into your pleasure sector this morning further enhances your good mood and spirit. With Venus close to a direct station, exercise patience and allow yourself time to adjust to this shift in direction before making major moves.

Virgo



While today and tomorrow are days of a shift in Venus’ direction and patience is important, dear Virgo, you can nevertheless be productive and enjoy some creative thinking and imagining now. The Moon’s move into your sector of home and family this morning can pull you into yourself for some necessary down time. However, a lot is going on under the surface of things now, and you can be feeling quite excited about some of your dreams, which are seeming more and more realizable. It wouldn’t hurt you to break down some of the focus now to let a little more imagination into your plans.

Libra



In some ways, it can seem as if life is standing still with Venus, your ruler, set to turn direct tomorrow morning but at a station, dear Libra. You may very well feel as if you’re in limbo, waiting for some area of your life to unclog. However, today is not only about waiting, as you have a very creative connection between your solar eighth and sixth houses suggesting good hunches that lead you to just the right information or methods that help you out. Projects already underway and “sure things” can benefit from a more freeform approach today. This morning, the Moon moves into your communications sector, stimulating a need for more movement and mental stimulation in your life.

Scorpio



With Venus on the verge of turning direct and Mercury rather newly retrograde, dear Scorpio, this is not an ideal time for clarity in your close relationships. However, actions are speaking louder than words these days, and today is no exception. Sharing activities or working together with someone towards a common goal can be very satisfying now. This can also be a day for rich fantasies and imaginings. You’ll have a stronger desire to bring a dream to life. The Moon moves out of your sign this morning and into your resources sector, helping you to muster up the patience to wait for clearer times to move something forward.

Sagittarius



This morning, the Moon moves into your sign, dear Sagittarius, ending a brief theme of relative anonymity. You can experience a greater need to connect with the world around you, to seek out feedback or validation, and to be heard or acknowledged. With Venus about to turn direction, however, it can be a somewhat tricky time to navigate on a social level. There can be some misunderstandings. Even so, you’re in a great position to decompress and allow yourself some extra time to dream and imagine or add creative flourishes to your current ventures, particularly related to home and work endeavors.

Capricorn



After some rather busy or socially-focused days, dear Capricorn, the Moon moves into your privacy sector, and you’re entering a short cycle of relative anonymity. It’s a period for increased attention to your inner world, and it comes at a good time for introspection with Venus about to change directions. Venus’ direct shift will have the effect of smoothing out or clarifying certain projects and relationships, but this doesn’t happen in one fell swoop! Take your time and process your feelings now. You can be deeply entranced by your dreams today, finding it very easy to get caught up in your imagination. Plans seem more realizable, but patience is necessary for now.

Aquarius



This is not an ideal time for new projects or launches, dear Aquarius, and it’s not great for clarity and warmth in relationships, either. This temporary lull is about directional shifts and isn’t personal! However, you don’t have to act as if you are stuck or in limbo, particularly with a Mars-Neptune influence today that points to real benefits to decompressing, slowing down, and taking a step back from what you’re doing so that you can look at it in a more creative way. Today is also good for money and home affairs – you’re finding unique ways to make yourself feel more secure and comfortable.

Pisces



You can be feeling particularly energetic now, dear Pisces. With Venus reaching a station early tomorrow, today and tomorrow require restraint and patience. Brand new beginnings may not thrive now. Further, if they did happen to take off, you might change your mind later. However, this is a good time for fabulous ideas and inspired work on endeavors you already have in the works. There can be engaging conversations and unusual news or surprising coincidences. You are adding more color and flair to all that you do now.

*Remember to read horoscopes for your Ascendant sign and Sun sign. If you don’t know your Ascendant sign and know your birth time, you can look it up here.

If Your Birthday is April 14th, If Today is Your Birthday full horoscope here.

Astrology of Today – The Details: If you’re astrologically inclined and interested in the details of the Astrology of today, here are some of the factors considered in the forecasts (for the astrology of the week, see This Week in Astrology):







Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 6:26 am Event: Moon enters Sagittarius Description: The Moon in Sagittarius This is a time for expanding our mind and experience, exploring new pathways, aiming high, and broadening our horizons. It’s not as strong for detail or routine work. There can be restlessness, courage, and spontaneity now.

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 0:17 am Event: Moon goes void of course

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 0:17 am Event: Tr-Tr Mon Tri Ven Description: Transiting Moon Trine Transiting Venus We are less inhibited and more willing to indulge ourselves. Love and romance can be favorable. Decorating, beauty treatments, the arts, creative pursuits, parties, dates, and recreation are generally favored now. There is increased sensitivity, affection, and warmth. Love is grand! Affection, love, and romance are in the air.

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 6:26 am Event: Tr-Tr Mon Cnj Sag Description: Transiting Moon Entering Sagittarius This is a time for expanding our mind and experience, exploring new pathways, aiming high, and broadening our horizons. It’s not as strong for detail or routine work. There can be restlessness, courage, and spontaneity now.

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 8:47 am Event: Tr-Tr Mon Cpl Mer Description: Transiting Moon ContraParallel Transiting Mercury

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 9:46 am Event: Tr-Tr Mon SSq Jun Description: Transiting Moon SemiSquare Transiting Juno There may be clinging or controlling behavior if we are driven by our fears. Hypersensitivity and moodiness are possible. Tread lightly with tricky emotional issues.

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 10:13 am Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sqr Nod Description: Transiting Moon Square Transiting North Node This is the trigger for out with the old and in with the new. We could feel at odds with others on an emotional level. Public relations are not as favorable now. Plans could need reworking. We could feel temporarily out of the loop.

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 11:15 am Event: Tr-Tr Mon SSq Jup Description: Transiting Moon SemiSquare Transiting Jupiter Self-indulgence is more likely now. We’re not as inclined to consider the consequences of over-eating, over-drinking, or overdoing in general. We may be acting in a haughty manner.

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 1:53 pm Event: Tr-Tr Mon Qnx Mer Description: Transiting Moon Quincunx Transiting Mercury It can be difficult to be objective at this time. This can be a “foot in mouth” time. We should think before we speak, or there could be hurt feelings.

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 3:17 pm Event: Tr-Tr Mon SSq Plu Description: Transiting Moon SemiSquare Transiting Pluto Deeper feelings emerge suddenly, and possibly in a disruptive way. We may be over-reacting or going to extremes. Wait for the tension to subside before taking action.

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 5:36 pm Event: Tr-Tr Mon Tri Pal Description: Transiting Moon Trine Transiting Pallas There is a good ability to successfully combine logic and intuition, and to understand problems taking into account the human element. There is sensitivity to people’s issues now. Cooperation. Effective, sensitive decision making.

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 9:48 pm Event: Tr-Tr Mon Cpl Cer Description: Transiting Moon ContraParallel Transiting Ceres

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 1:30 am Event: Tr-Tr Sun Cnj Ura Description: Transiting Sun Conjunction Transiting Uranus Life has a little sparkle right now. You are keen to make changes and find inventive ways to implement new habits.

Date & Time: Apr 14 2017 3:28 pm Event: Tr-Tr Sun Sqr Ves Description: Transiting Sun Square Transiting Vesta There can be difficulties focusing or knowing where/how to direct our energies. For some of us, we may bury ourselves in work as a way to avoid other problems now.

Strong Signs, Elements, Modes ARIES STRONG Initiating, pioneering energy. Independent, bold, courageous, assertive, fiery, inspirational, direct, decisive. Can be egotistical, impulsive, impatient, aggressive, lacking subtlety. TAURUS STRONG Stable and enduring, strong values, unyielding, earthy, acquisitive, strong desires. Can be stuck, stubborn, overly possessive, self-indulgent. SAGITTARIUS STRONG Inspiring, broad vision, enthusiastic, goal seeking, truthful, adventurous. Can be reckless, unrestrained, tactless. PISCES STRONG Compassionate, sensitive, self-sacrificing, gentle, intuitive. Can be escapist, impractical, hyper- sensitive, gullible.

BALANCE OF ELEMENTS

FIRE STRONG Fire is enthusiastic, dynamic, and spontaneous, but lacks reflection. We are more courageous and adventurous now, with a tendency to act before thinking. There is little concern about what happened in the past. We are competitive and possibly impatient or bored easily. AIR WEAK We may have a difficult time being objective or detached. We may not be especially communicative.

BALANCE OF MODES

The modes are balanced.

LUNAR PHASE: FULL MOON Moon 180 to 135 degrees behind the Sun. We are concerned mainly with the nature of relationships and are made aware of recent imbalances. Something can come to fruition. Our concern is not limited to personal relationships, but relationships of all kinds. Our cards are on the table.

The following aspects (major only) and positions are at noon (EDT) on April 14th: Note that when an aspect is applying, it has not yet happened but is within orb – it’s pending. When an aspect is separating, it has already happened/perfected and is moving away from the aspect. Depending on the speed of the planet/body involved, the aspect will have perfected, or will perfect, in a matter of hours (often the case with the Moon), days, months, and possibly years in the case of the very slow-moving outer planets and bodies.

Note that the Moon moves at a rate of approximately one degree every 2 hours, so that if an aspect involving the Moon is applying and has an orb of 5 degrees, the aspect will perfect (be exact) in about 10 hours. If the Moon is separating from an aspect with an orb of 2 degrees, it has already formed said aspect approximately 4 hours ago (since the following are positions at noon today, then it would have occurred at about 8 AM today).

**I suggest paying close attention to applying  aspects. The energy of the aspect builds as it gets closer to exact. Once an aspect involving inner planets has happened, it’s over.  Separating aspects are good to know for context, but in terms of energy that is with us today, applying aspects are most important. (This is the case for daily astrology influences involving inner planets, which pass quickly, and not natal astrology aspects, which are with us for a lifetime).

THE MOON

THE MOON IN SAGITTARIUS This is a time for expanding our mind and experience, exploring new pathways, aiming high, and broadening our horizons. It’s not as strong for detail or routine work. There can be restlessness, courage, and spontaneity now.

3RD DEGREE OF SAGITTARIUS Part of Body: Ischia Sabian Symbol: Two men playing chess.

ASPECTS OF THE MOON QUINCUNX MERCURY Orb 0°58′ Applying It can be difficult to be objective at this time. This can be a “foot in mouth” time. We should think before we speak, or there could be hurt feelings.

TRINE VENUS Orb 5°50′ Separating We tend to seek out harmony, balance, and beauty. Love, romance, decorating, beauty treatments, the arts, creative pursuits, parties, dates, and recreation are generally favored now. There is increased sensitivity, affection, and warmth, but there could also be some appeasement, tact, and diplomacy.

TRINE CHIRON Orb 6°16′ Separating There can be new or easy understanding of our feelings and impressions now. We have a greater understanding of, or compassion for, others’ problems. We are more emotionally present and involved.

THE SUN

THE SUN IN ARIES You are an assertive and freedom-loving individual. You have a strong need for independence, and may tend to display self-concern assertively.

25TH DEGREE OF ARIES Part of Body: Sternocleidomastoid muscle Sabian Symbol: A double promise reveals its inner and outer meanings.

ASPECTS OF THE SUN CONJUNCTION MERCURY Orb 8°50′ Applying Thoughts and communications about ourselves and our goals. We are expressing ourselves confidently, directly, and clearly.

TRINE SATURN Orb 2°50′ Applying We are taking pride in our responsibilities or performance. This can be a time of steady progress and increased self-discipline. We are more inclined to humble ourselves to authority or good advice, and tend to employ traditional methods.

CONJUNCTION URANUS Orb 0°24′ Separating You are a rebel but also a leader. You are innovative and original. Others may see you as arrogant, wilful and disruptive at times. Life will be full of surprises. Politics, science or computing appeal to you.

SQUARE PLUTO Orb 5°29′ Separating We may be tempted to control or manipulate events and people, and can have difficulty reaching a compromise. We might need to reevaluate expectations, face our fears, manage power struggles, and deal with urges to control others and situations.

MERCURY

MERCURY IN TAURUS You place importance on traditional knowledge. You learn in a slow, methodical and hands-on manner. You stick to old ideas and may fear having to learn anything new.

4TH DEGREE OF TAURUS Part of Body: Uvula Sabian Symbol: The rainbow’s pot of gold.

ASPECTS OF MERCURY TRINE SATURN Orb 5°59′ Applying We are cautious, careful, tuned in to details, and rely on common sense at this time.

VENUS

VENUS IN PISCES You yearn to merge and be at-one with your partner. In fact you want to be at-one with the universe. You also enjoy sharing inspirational activities with your partner, ranging from listening to beautiful music to visiting an art gallery.

27TH DEGREE OF PISCES Part of Body: Phalanges of right foot Sabian Symbol: A harvest moon.

ASPECTS OF VENUS SEXTILE MARS Orb 1°37′ Applying You have the opportunity to blend your charm and assertion. You can be both gentle and strong.

SQUARE SATURN Orb 0°48′ Separating Lack of spontaneity when it comes to expressions of affection and the pursuit of pleasure, likely due to insecurities or fear. We may be reserved, withdrawn, cautious, and tight with money and/or feelings. Feelings of being alone and not getting what we want/need can be experienced now.

CONJUNCTION CHIRON Orb 0°26′ Applying You have a childlike innocence in your personal relationships, which makes you vulnerable to emotional pain. You fear commitment and rejection. You may experience pain in early relationships, but this pain is usually healed giving you insight and wisdom in later personal relationships. You see the beauty in people who have been cast aside by others, and develop the ability to be a teacher or healer in intimate relationships.

MARS

MARS IN TAURUS You have strong personal desires, although you will usually follow a reliable course of action in attaining those desires. You are stubborn if opposed.

26TH DEGREE OF TAURUS Part of Body: Nasal bone Sabian Symbol: A spaniard serenading his senorita.

ASPECTS OF MARS QUINCUNX SATURN Orb 2°26′ Applying We may be slowed down by an awareness of a responsibility or a limitation of time, energy, or resources. We might be tempted to pin the blame on someone or something else. We could be experiencing a delayed reaction to a past frustration. This is a time for adjusting plans and practicing patience.

TRINE PLUTO Orb 5°54′ Separating Ambitions and determination increase to pursue our goals. It’s easier to see what we want and to devise a plan to pursue it. We may be focusing on redoing or reworking something from the ground up.

SEXTILE CHIRON Orb 1°11′ Applying You have the opportunity to be an empathetic and powerful leader of the downtrodden people of the world.

JUPITER

JUPITER IN LIBRA You have a strong concern for justice. You are a diplomatic teacher, and express your spiritual values in your relationships.

18TH DEGREE OF LIBRA Part of Body: Fatty capsule of kidneys Sabian Symbol: Two men placed under arrest.

ASPECTS OF JUPITER SQUARE PLUTO Orb 2°00′ Separating You will need to learn to have confidence in yourself even when life deals you a few blows. You range from over confident to completely lacking in confidence. The truth lies somewhere in between.

SATURN

SATURN IN SAGITTARIUS Saturn in Sagittarius asks us to take on the responsibility of living according to our personal truths and principles, and to be loyal to these. This is a time for turning a critical eye to those beliefs and principles that don’t accurately reflect our authentic selves. (December 23, 2014, to June 14, 2015, then September 17, 2015, to December 20, 2017)

28TH DEGREE OF SAGITTARIUS Part of Body: Right leg muscles Sabian Symbol: An old bridge over a beautiful stream.

ASPECTS OF SATURN TRINE URANUS Orb 3°15′ Applying You have a talent for investigation. You look at new ideas and are able then to put them into action. In business you achieve much in your own independent way.

SQUARE CHIRON Orb 1°15′ Applying There can be fears now of not being competent or effective enough to meet our responsibilities, or we could find it hard to strike out on a unique path, again due to fears or insecurities. The desire to break from the status quo is strong, but we may not have the necessary confidence to do so. We may have difficulties empathizing with others and understanding ourselves.

URANUS

URANUS IN ARIES The urge to start fresh, to break free from restrictive attitudes or circumstances, to totally redesign an area of our lives (or even our personalities), and to gain freedom through independence is strong during this cycle. (May 27, 2010, to August 13, 2010, then March 11th, 2011, to May 15, 2018, then November 6, 2018, to March 6, 2019).

25TH DEGREE OF ARIES Part of Body: Sternocleidomastoid muscle Sabian Symbol: A double promise reveals its inner and outer meanings.

NEPTUNE

NEPTUNE IN PISCES A long-term influence in which fantasy, imagination, compassion, and spirituality are in stronger focus. (April 4, 2011, to August 4, 2011, then February 3, 2012, to March 30, 2025, then October 22, 2025, to January 26, 2026)

14TH DEGREE OF PISCES Part of Body: Right cutaneous veins Sabian Symbol: A lady in fox fur.

PLUTO

PLUTO IN CAPRICORN Tests of our boundaries; breaking down and rebuilding structures and rules. (From January 25, 2008, to June 14, 2008, then November 26, 2008, to March 23, 2023, then June 11, 2023, to January 20, 2024, then September 1, 2024, to November 19, 2024).

20TH DEGREE OF CAPRICORN Part of Body: Tendons of right knee Sabian Symbol: A hidden choir singing.

Chiron, Major Asteroids, and Moon’s Nodes: in Sign and in Aspect CHIRON

CHIRON IN PISCES

Strong awareness of our own vulnerabilities and humanity stimulates compassion for others. (April 20 to July 20, 2010, then February 8, 2011, to April 17, 2018, then September 25, 2018, to February 18, 2019).

27TH DEGREE OF PISCES Part of Body: Phalanges of right foot Sabian Symbol: A harvest moon.

VESTA

VESTA IN CANCER

You are committed to your family and loved ones, especially when they need you. However, you may withdraw like a crab into your shell if you feel hurt by those closest to you. You enjoy working with those close to you.

25TH DEGREE OF CANCER Part of Body: Blood vessels of digestive organs Sabian Symbol: A leader of men wrapped in an invisible mantle of power.

PALLAS

PALLAS IN ARIES You have a keen intellect with the ability to come up with exciting, new ideas. You are also happy to risk putting your new ideas into action.

6TH DEGREE OF ARIES Part of Body: Eye Socket, orbital cavity Sabian Symbol: A square brightly lighted on one side.

JUNO

JUNO IN CAPRICORN You want a partner who you can respect, and who respects you. You seek long-term commitment and may marry later in life.

17TH DEGREE OF CAPRICORN Part of Body: Condyle of left tibia Sabian Symbol: A girl surreptitiously bathing in the nude.

CERES

CERES IN TAURUS You feel cared for when loved ones give you a sense of stability and security. You like to be touched and stroked and nurtured in practical ways. You also like to show others you care through practical means.

24TH DEGREE OF TAURUS Part of Body: Upper jaw Sabian Symbol: A rider rides proudly.

THE NORTH NODE

THE NORTH NODE IN VIRGO

This is a quest to become dedicated to the service of others. You will need to overcome the tendency to daydream and feel overwhelmed and to put your compassion and wisdom to practical use for humanity.

2ND DEGREE OF VIRGO Part of Body: Small intestine Sabian Symbol: A large white cross stands alone on top of a high hill.

Sabian Symbol:

THE SOUTH NODE

THE SOUTH NODE IN PISCES

This is a quest to become dedicated to the service of others. You will need to overcome the tendency to daydream and feel overwhelmed and to put your compassion and wisdom to practical use for humanity.

2ND DEGREE OF PISCES Part of Body: Left calcaneum Sabian Symbol: A squirrel hiding from hunters.

*** CONJUNCTIONS TO SELECT FIXED STARS ***

Transits Apr 14, 2017 – Event Chart

Aspects to Mars 25°Ta17 +19°35′ Cnj 24°Ta25 CAPULUS— Sexual and/or aggressive

Aspects to Juno 16°Cp39 -08°17′ Cnj 16°Cp52 RUKBAT Steadiness and strength.

Aspects to Ceres 23°Ta58 +16°31′ Cnj 24°Ta25 CAPULUS— Sexual and/or aggressive



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A Critique on Barbara L. Shaw’s Article: “On Eliminating Violence Against Women”

In a world where violence against women rages all over the place and is a crisis in almost all societies, millions of women’s lives are invaded with fear daily. Violence, as defined by the Oxford Dictionary of English, is a behavior involving physical force intended to hurt, damage, or kill someone or something. This violence includes a wide range of violations of women’s human rights including spousal violence, which is usually directed at wives or girlfriends, sexual assault and stalking. The United Nations Declaration on Violence Against Women defines violence as “any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivations of liberty, whether occurring in public or private life (United Nations, 2016).” In 1994, the government of United States passed a legislation called the Violence Against Women Act to combat this problem and in 2000 the Violence Against Women Act was enacted again to strengthen the existing act. The United Nations (UN) also has a set of laws and policies that the countries which are members of the UN must abide by in order to protect women.

Although raising awareness is an important first step towards eliminating violence against women, short-term campaign efforts and law-and-order approaches cannot stop the pandemic of violence. Citing reports from World Health Organization and UN Women on the prevalence of violence against women, Barbara L. Shaw believes that this problem must be put to a stop. In her article entitled “On Eliminating Violence Against Women”, she claimed that global health response within a social justice approach is needed to combat this phenomenon. She mentioned that there can only be real change when there is a shift in public consciousness so that the unthinkable is no longer an accepted behavior and sexual violence must be addressed as an urgent global health that is framed by complex and simultaneous relations of power such as gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality, social class, religion, and nationality, embedded in social institutions ranging from the family to sports to religion. It will take individuals, communities, and nations to listen to people who are affected directly by sexual violence so that effective pathways may be established to stop or minimize the current situation. Furthermore, eliminating violence not just against women but also against the poor and vulnerable will require people to stop protecting perpetrators of violence, stop shying away from the discomfort such conversations seem to invite, and speak out against violence, not just on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women but every single day possible.

This article presented the author’s main underlying idea which is the problem of violence against women that is relevant and can be seen in most societies today. The author supported the occurrence of this phenomenon by presenting reports by authorized officials and organizations such as the World Health Organization. This article intends to raise awareness and provide substantial information on violence so as to eliminate this problem with the hope that readers can act upon this and “push beyond a call for universal rights and one-size-fits-all awareness and education campaigns,” as emphasized by the author in her article.

In the text, Aristotle’s appeals were used as a means of persuading the readers to take on the point of view of the author. An appeal to ethics can be demonstrated in the author’s use of credible people such as Kimberlé Crenshaw, a distinguished professor of law at UCLA and Columbia University, and Andrea Richie, a New York police misconduct attorney and organizer, to support her claim that reporting is a grueling and potentially dangerous process for any woman who has experienced violence. Another appeal, an appeal to logos, can be clearly seen in the article as evidences supporting the author’s claims were provided. Additionally, it contained claims of fact that were strongly supported by reports. The author claimed that facts about violence darken the advances in women’s ability to live longer, healthier lives and receive education. The author supported her claim of fact by citing reports of officials and organizations. She mentioned that the World Health Organization declared “thirty (30) percent of women in a relationship experience physical or sexual violence and thirty-five (35) percent experience intimate partner violence.” Moreover, UN Women reported that almost half of the women killed worldwide died at the hands of an intimate partner or family member. With these facts and evidences presented, the author was able to emphasize logical proof and prove her claim that, indeed, women’s lives are constantly invaded with fear and insecurity due to the occurrence of violence. This claim is reasonable because with the evidences presented, it proved that women experience violence and abuse, thus, there is a need to call for action. However, in this statement, “With little data on psychological violence, researchers know that 43 percent of women in 28 EU member states report experiencing it,” the author committed a fallacy. The ‘researchers’ in the statement, used to support the author’s assertion, is an unauthorized authority. This is because the authority in question was not named or mentioned. The author should have named the researchers who stated the report so as to assure that the supporting detail is accurate. In addition, no intertextuality was used in the article. Nonetheless, the author was able to convince her readers to push beyond a call for universal rights and awareness and education campaigns by using highly competent sources such as the World Health Organization and UN Women to substantiate her claim on violence against women.

As for the pattern of development of the article, the author stated the problem in the beginning of the article and provided solutions at the end. Thus, the problem-solution pattern was easily identified. The purpose of the composition to raise awareness and call for action can also readily be recognized. Although the ideas in the text could have been more organized since there seemed to be no clear logical progression of the ideas presented, appropriate transitional devices were used when needed as demonstrated by this statement, “Laws and international declarations are necessary to provide resources to communities, but this political process will not be the mechanism to address, prevent, and eliminate violence, especially in the lives of women of color, and people in the LGBTQAI+ community.” In this statement, the writer used the word ‘but’ to show the contrast between the two ideas. In spite of the lack of organization, the text was not difficult to follow due to the transitional devices used.

In terms of cohesion, the text did not have the sense of sentence-by-sentence flow because some sentences were not connected to the previous one and the one that follows. This can be exemplified by the following sentences, “Certainly, there are good law-and-order professionals who care about their communities and work effectively within the law. We need to hear those stories to help build trust, but buttressing laws and reporting structures will not address, prevent, or eliminate violence.” Although the writer made use of transitional devices to aid the reader in understanding the text, the writer failed to establish a smooth flow by ending each sentence with new information and starting each sentence with old information. The sentence, “We need to hear those stories to help build trust…,” does not give a clear connection to the sentence which talked about the presence of good law-and-order professionals who care about their communities and work effectively within the law. As for the coherence of the article, there was an overall sense of unity in the article because the main point of each paragraph relates to the main topic of the article which talks primarily about violence. Each part of the text contributed to the overall message of the article and it focused the reader’s attention to the specific topic.

In terms of language use and word choice, the author observed the usage of precise and correct words to relay a clear and concise essay. However, the author used words such as buttressing, poignant, and hegemonic, which are words that may require readers to use context clues to better understand the idea of the sentence as these words are only seldom used. Moreover, the author used cliché words such as “the tip of the iceberg” which refers to a situation in which someone is seeing only a small part of what is really a bigger problem. Even so, the author did not use contractions and words were appropriate for the article.

Lastly, for the mechanics, the author observed the correct use of capitalization and punctuation marks. Each sentence was started with a capital letter and ended with either a period or a question mark. The author was also able to use the correct tenses of verbs.

Overall, the article was very informative because it provided detailed information about the topic. Claims were substantially supported by accurate facts and reports, thus, making it convincing for readers. However, the organization of ideas can still be improved.

 REFERENCES:

(2016). Facts and figures: ending violence against women. UN Women. Retrieved on February 26, 2017, from http://www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/ending-violence-against-women/facts-and-figures

 (2016). Violence against women. World Health Organization. Retrieved on February 26, 2017, from http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs239/en/

 Shaw, B. (2015). On eliminating violence against women. The Huffington Post. Retrieved on February 26, 2017, from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/barbara-l-shaw/on-eliminating-violence-a_b_8629988.html?utm_hp_ref=social-issues

 Violence against women. United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women. Retrieved on February 26, 2017, from  http://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/vaw/v-overview.htm

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Expert: Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity. — Martin  Luther King, Strength to Love, 1963 As Martin Luther King’s birthday is celebrated with a national holiday, his death day disappears down the memory hole.  Across the country – in response to the King Holiday and Service Act passed by Congress and signed by Bill Clinton in 1994 – people will be encouraged to make the day one of service (from Latin, servus = slave).  Etymological irony aside, such service does not include King’s commitment to protesting a decadent system of racial and economic injustice or non-violently resisting the warfare state that is the United States. Government sponsored service is cultural neo-liberalism at its finest. The word service is a loaded word.  It connotes many things, such as military service (“Were you ever in the service?”), community service (“She was sentenced to 30 days of community service.”), being of service to others, etc.  It has also become a vogue word over the past 25 years; e.g., Service Learning (1995), etc.  Its popularity and use arose and expanded in tandem with the privatization of social life, services, and the expansion of work for free, such as unpaid internships and articles like this for which this author receives no remuneration. I see it as part of the privatization and unpaid volunteer movement engineered by the elites in recent decades.  This cult of the service volunteer is a form of social control and capitalist exploitation aimed at inducing passivity in an individualized and divided population to prevent radical social change. Its use for MLK Day is clear: individuals are encouraged to volunteer for activities such as tutoring children, painting senior centers, or delivering meals to the elderly.  Clearly these are wonderful deeds when done on individual initiative and not through government, corporate, and institutional public relations aimed at concealing an American prophet’s radical message and his brutal assassination. The America Association of State Colleges and Universities describes it as follows: The MLK Day of Service is part of United We Serve, the President’s national call to service initiative.  It calls for Americans from all walks of life to work together to provide solutions to our most pressing national problems.  The MLK Day of Service empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, creates solutions to social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a ‘Beloved Community’. This is sheer nonsense.  Such service is a far cry from King’s campaign to transform the institutional structures of American society.  It in no way provides solutions to “our most pressing national problems” or “creates solutions to social problems.” But a day of such individual volunteer service once a year does make people feel good about themselves. Thus the government, corporate, and educational institutions strongly encourage it, as if Martin Luther King were born volunteering at the local food pantry and Oprah Winfrey were cheering him on. After all, King was not assassinated because he had spent his heroic life promoting individual volunteerism.  To understand his life and death – to celebrate the man – “it is essential to realize although he is popularly depicted and perceived as a civil rights leader, he was much more than that.  A non-violent revolutionary, he personified the most powerful force for a long overdue social, political, and economic reconstruction of the nation.”  Those are the words of William Pepper, the King family lawyer, from his comprehensive and definitive study of the King assassination, The Plot to Kill King. In other words, Martin Luther King was a transmitter of a radical non-violent spiritual and political energy so plenipotent that his very existence was a threat to an established order based on institutionalized violence, racism, and economic exploitation.  He was a very dangerous man to the U.S. government and all the institutional and deep state forces armed against him. That is why they spied on him (and his father and grandfather going back to 1917) and used dirty tricks to try to destroy him.  When he denounced the Vietnam War and announced his Poor People’s Campaign and intent to lead a massive peaceful encampment of hundreds of thousands in Washington, D.C., he set off panic in the bowels of government spies and their masters. As Stokely Carmichael, co-chairman of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee, said to King in a conversation secretly recorded by Army Intelligence, “The man don’t care you call ghettos concentration camps, but when you tell him his war machine is nothing but hired killers, you got trouble.” Revolutionaries are, of course, anathema to the power elites who, with all their might, resist such rebels’ efforts to transform society. If they can’t buy them off, they knock them off.  Forty-nine years after King’s assassination, the causes he fought for – civil rights, the end to U.S. wars of aggression, and economic justice for all – remain not only unfulfilled, but have worsened in so many respects.  And King’s message has been enervated by the sly trick of giving him a national holiday and then urging Americans to make it “a day of service.”  The vast majority of those who innocently participate in these activities have no idea who killed King, or why. If they did, they might pause in their tracks, suspend their “service” activities, and convene a teach-in on the truth of these matters.  William Pepper would be summoned. Because MLK repeatedly called the United States the “greatest purveyor of violence on earth,” he was universally condemned by the mass media and government that later – once he was long and safely dead and no longer a threat – praised him to the heavens.  This has continued to the present day of historical amnesia. For the government that honors Dr. King with a national holiday killed him. This is the suppressed truth behind the highly promoted day of service.  It is what you are not supposed to know. If you are supposed to know anything about his death day as you go about your day of service, it is the following. King was assassinated on April 4, 1968 at 6:01 PM as he stood on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee.  He was shot in the lower right side of his face by one rifle bullet that shattered his jaw, damaged his upper spine, and came to rest below his left shoulder blade.  The U. S. government claimed the assassin was a racist loner named James Earl Ray, a petty criminal, who had escaped from the Missouri State Penitentiary on April 23, 1967.  Ray was alleged to have fired the fatal shot from a second-floor bathroom window of a rooming house above the rear of Jim’s Grill across the street. Running to his rented room, Ray allegedly gathered his belongings, including the rifle, in a bedspread-wrapped bundle, rushed out the front door onto the adjoining street, and in a panic dropped the bundle in the doorway of the Canipe Amusement Company a few doors down.  He was then said to have jumped into his white Mustang and driven to Atlanta where he abandoned the car.  From there he fled to Canada and then England where he was eventually arrested at Heathrow Airport on June 8, 1968 and extradited to the U.S.  The state claims that the money Ray needed to purchase the car and for all his travel was secured through various robberies and a bank heist.  They allege that he was motivated by racism and that he was a bitter and deranged loner. However, William Pepper’s decades-long investigation not only refutes the flimsy case against James Earl Ray, but definitively proves that King was killed by a government conspiracy led by J. Edgar Hoover and the FBI, Army Intelligence, and Memphis Police, assisted by southern Mafia figures.  He is right to assert that “we have probably acquired more detailed knowledge about this political assassination than we have ever had about any previous historical event.” This makes the silence around this case even more shocking. This shock is accentuated when one is reminded (or told for the first time) that in 1999 a Memphis jury, after a thirty day trial with over seventy witnesses, found the U.S. government guilty in the killing of MLK.  The King family had brought the suit and Pepper represented them.  They were grateful that the truth was confirmed, but saddened by the way the findings were buried once again by a media in cahoots with the government. The civil trial was the King family’s last resort to get a public hearing to disclose the truth of the assassination. They and Pepper knew, and proved, that Ray was an innocent pawn, but Ray had died in prison in 1998 after trying for thirty years to get a trial and prove his innocence (shades of Sirhan Sirhan, who still languishes in prison seeking a new trial). During all these years, Ray had maintained that he had been manipulated by a shadowy figure named Raul, who supplied him with money and his white Mustang and coordinated all his complicated travels, including having him buy a rifle and come to Jim’s Grill and the boarding house on the day of the assassination to give it to Raul.  The government has always denied Raul existed. Pepper refutes the government and proves beyond a shadow of a doubt, through multiple witnesses, telephonic and photographic evidence, that Raul existed; that he was Ray’s U.S. intelligence handler, who provided him with money and instructions from their first meeting in the Neptune Bar in Montreal, where Ray had fled in 1967 after his prison escape, until the day of the assassination.  It was Raul who instructed Ray to return to the U.S. (an act that makes no sense for an escaped prisoner who had fled the country), gave him the money for the white Mustang, helped him attain travel documents, and moved him around the country like a pawn on a chess board. Raul, this man who allegedly never existed, has also been tied by multiple witnesses to Jack Ruby, Lee Harvey Oswald’s killer, and therefore to the JFK assassination.   This, too, is history you are not supposed to know. Pepper not only demolishes the government’s self-serving case with a plethora of evidence, he shows how the mainstream media, academia, and government flacks have spent years covering up the truth of MLK’s murder through lies and disinformation. Another way they have accomplished this is by convincing a gullible public that “service” is a substitute for truth.  As Douglass Valentine points out in his important new book, The CIA as Organized Crime, the symbolic transformation involved in word usage and the archetypal power of myth creation underlie the vast system of propaganda we are subjected to. And the implied power of “positive thinking” – as in “service” – is a case in point. But service without truth is slavery. It is propaganda aimed at convincing decent people into thinking that they are serving the essence of MLK’s message while they are obeying their masters, the very government that murdered this great American hero. It is time for a slaves’ revolt against the mind manipulation served by the MLK Day of Service. We need a Martin Luther King Day of Truth. • This article first appeared at OpEd News http://clubof.info/