#allocate abundant resources

[kaiijo]

CODA — JING YUAN 

pairing: jing yuan x gn! reader content: spouse! reader, suggestive content 

if someone were to ask you what your favorite time of day is, you would unequivocally answer that it’s nighttime. it’s a time to shed the events of the daytime and the promise of a new day tomorrow. and, given yours and jing yuan’s positions as diplomatic head of the xianzhou alliance and general of the luofu cloud knights, it’s when you get to spend time with your beloved husband.

you massage the rest of your moisturizer into your skin as you enter your shared bedroom, jing yuan already underneath the blankets, sitting up against the headboard. he lowers the book he has in hand, smiling warmly at you. you lean against the doorframe, drinking him in. even after years of being together, you still can’t quite get over how handsome he is (his tendency to sleep shirtless and showcase his well-sculpted body doesn’t hurt either).

“are you going to join me, dearest, or will you stand there all night?”

“i’m tempted to, if this is my view,” you reply with a grin.

he chuckles, “silver tongue.”

“you’re one to talk.” you push yourself off the frame and make your way over, sliding into bed beside jing yuan. immediately, his arm is around you and pulling you in close. he reaches over and shuts off the bedside lamp. dim moonlight floods your bedroom, casting a soft glow and you settle into your husband, head resting against his chest and arm wrapped around his torso. you snuggle into the warmth you’ve created.

he plants a loving kiss on the crown of your head. “how was your day?”

“exhausting,” you sigh. “i spent all day negotiating allocation of alchemy commission resources for the yuque and huaiyan as well as meeting with representatives from novara to discuss how the xianzhou alliance will assist with the recent uprising of denizens of the abundance on the planet.”

jing yuan hums and asks, “will cloud knights be dispatched?”

“i would prefer not to, both for diplomatic reasons and my own selfish ones.” you peek up at jing yuan and he smiles, leaning down again to kiss your forehead. “what about you? how was the meeting with the other arbiter-generals?”

“same as usual,” he replies. “a fair amount of bickering but nothing unresolvable.” he shifts a little so that he can lean closer, your noses brushing together. “i missed you today.”

“you miss me every day,” you murmur. you ghost your fingers along his skin and your husband shivers.

“i missed you especially today,” jing yuan says, voice deepening. you look into his eyes, half-lidded and dark and you known exactly what he has in mind. before you can act, he beats you to the punch, ever the perfect warrior, and he captures your mouth in a searing kiss. you return it with an equal amount of heat.

jing yuan’s grasps at your hips, rolling both of you so you lay on top of him. you pout when he pulls away, only to whine a moment later as he trails teasing, featherlight kisses to your jaw and neck. you return his teasing in kind, sitting up and trailing you hands appreciatively across his shoulders, down his chest, along his abs, tracing the multitude of scars he’s garnered from centuries of battle. you delight in the way goosebumps prickle along his skin as you continue downwards.

jing yuan’s gaze meets yours, eyes glinting like pools of hot, molten gold. “are you sure you want this tonight, dearest? i won’t be acting very gentlemanly tonight.”

you smirk at him, ducking down so your mouth hovers just above his ear. you purr, “when have you ever been gentlemanly, general?”

as he yanks you downward into another passionate kiss, you think distantly that yes, indeed, nighttime is your favorite time of day.

[blackhistorystoryteller]

AN ARTICLE ON THE BRITISH LOOTING FROM AFRICA

AND SUFFERING OF AFRICANS

The British should return every loot of all kinds back to Africa

IF THEY CONDEMN SLAVE TRADE THEY SHOULD START BY RETURNING THE LOOTS COLLECTED FROM AFRICA ALL IN THE NAME OF TRADE AND RELIGION ,IF OUR CULTURE WAS BAD WHY DID THEY TAKE AWAY OUR HERITAGE AND STORE THEM IN A MUSEUM ?

The looting of Africa during the colonial era occurred through a combination of methods and strategies employed by European colonial powers, including Britain. Here are some of the ways in which Africa was looted during this period:

Military Conquest: European colonial powers, including the British, often used military force to conquer and control African territories. This involved armed conflicts, wars of conquest, and the suppression of local resistance movements. Through these military campaigns, colonial powers gained control over land and resources.

Resource Extraction: One of the primary motivations for colonialism in Africa was the exploitation of its abundant natural resources. European colonial powers, including Britain, extracted valuable resources such as minerals, rubber, timber, and agricultural products from African colonies. These resources were often taken for the economic benefit of the colonial powers.

Forced Labor: Colonial powers imposed forced labor systems on Africans to work in mines, plantations, and other labor-intensive industries. These labor practices were exploitative and often involved harsh working conditions and little compensation.

Taxation and Economic Exploitation: Africans were subjected to unfair taxation systems that drained wealth from their communities. Colonial administrations imposed taxes on land, crops, and other economic activities, forcing Africans to generate revenue for the colonial authorities.

Land Dispossession: Africans frequently lost access to their ancestral lands as colonial governments allocated land to European settlers and corporations. This land dispossession disrupted traditional agricultural practices and led to social and economic dislocation.

Confiscation of Cultural Artifacts: Colonial powers often confiscated cultural artifacts, sculptures, art, and religious items from Africa. These items were frequently transported to Europe and ended up in museums, private collections, or auction houses.

Unequal Trade Agreements: Colonial powers imposed trade agreements that favored their own economies. Africans often received minimal compensation for their raw materials and agricultural products, while European countries reaped significant profits from these trade relationships.

Suppression of Indigenous Cultures: The suppression of indigenous African cultures and languages was another aspect of colonialism. European powers sought to impose their own cultural norms and values, often devaluing or erasing African traditions.

Missionaries played a complex role in the context of colonialism and the looting of Africa. While their primary mission was to spread Christianity and convert indigenous populations to Christianity, their activities and interactions with colonial authorities had various effects on the looting of Africa:

1. Cultural Influence: Missionaries often sought to replace indigenous African religions with Christianity. In doing so, they promoted European cultural norms, values, and practices, which contributed to cultural change and, in some cases, the erosion of traditional African cultures.

2. Collaboration with Colonial Powers: In some instances, missionaries worked closely with colonial authorities. They provided moral and religious justification for colonialism and sometimes acted as intermediaries between the colonial administration and local communities. This collaboration could indirectly support the colonial exploitation of resources.

3. Access to Resources: Missionary activities occasionally granted them access to valuable resources and artifacts. They may have collected religious objects, manuscripts, and other items from indigenous communities, which were sometimes sent back to Europe as part of ethnographic or religious collections.

4. Education and Healthcare: Missionaries established schools, hospitals, and other institutions in African communities. While these services were aimed at spreading Christianity, they also provided education and healthcare to local populations, which could have positive impacts on individuals and communities.

5. Advocacy for Indigenous Rights: Some missionaries, particularly in later years, became advocates for the rights of indigenous populations. They witnessed the injustices of colonialism and spoke out against the mistreatment of Africans, including forced labor and land dispossession.

6. Conversion and Social Change: The conversion of Africans to Christianity brought about significant social changes in some communities. It could lead to shifts in social hierarchies, family structures, and gender roles, sometimes contributing to social upheaval.

1. Cultural Bias: The British, like many Europeans of their time, often viewed their own culture, including Christianity, as superior to the indigenous cultures and religions they encountered in Africa. This cultural bias led to the condemnation of indigenous African religions and gods as "pagan" or "heathen."

2. Religious Conversion: Part of the colonial mission was to spread Christianity among the indigenous populations. Missionaries were sent to Africa with the aim of converting people to Christianity, which often involved suppressing or condemning traditional African religions and deities seen as incompatible with Christianity.

3. Economic Interests: The British Empire, like other colonial powers, was driven by economic interests. They often saw the resources and wealth of African societies as valuable commodities to be exploited. This economic agenda could involve looting or confiscating sacred artifacts, including religious objects, for financial gain.

4. Ethnographic Research: Some British colonial officials and scholars engaged in ethnographic research to study African cultures, including their religious practices. While this research aimed to document indigenous cultures, it could sometimes involve the collection of religious artifacts and objects, which were then sent to museums or private collections in Europe.

5. Cultural Imperialism: Colonialism was not just about economic and political domination; it also involved cultural imperialism. This included an attempt to impose European cultural norms, values, and religious beliefs on African societies, often at the expense of indigenous traditions.

The issue of repatriating cultural artifacts looted from Africa during the colonial era has gained significant attention in recent years. Countries and communities in Africa have long called for the return of these treasures, which hold deep cultural and historical significance. Among the former colonial powers, Britain stands at the forefront of this debate. This article explores the ongoing discussion surrounding Britain's role in returning looted artifacts to Africa.

A Legacy of Colonialism:

Britain's colonial history left a profound impact on many African nations, including the removal of countless cultural treasures. During the height of the British Empire, valuable artifacts, sculptures, manuscripts, and sacred items were taken from their places of origin. These items found their way into the collections of museums, private collectors, and institutions in Britain.

The Case for Repatriation:

Advocates for repatriation argue that these artifacts rightfully belong to the countries and communities from which they were taken. They emphasize the importance of returning stolen cultural heritage as a step towards justice and reconciliation. Many African nations view these artifacts as integral to their cultural identity and heritage.

International Momentum:

In recent years, there has been a growing international momentum to address this issue. Museums and institutions worldwide are engaging in discussions about repatriation. Some institutions have initiated efforts to return specific items to their countries of origin, acknowledging their historical and moral responsibility.

Britain's Response:

Britain, home to several renowned museums housing African artifacts, has faced increasing pressure to address this issue. The British Museum, for instance, has faced calls to repatriate numerous artifacts, including the Benin Bronzes and the Elgin Marbles, which have origins in Africa and Greece, respectively.

In response to these demands, some British institutions have started to collaborate with African countries to explore the possibility of returning certain artifacts. These discussions aim to find mutually agreeable solutions that respect both the historical context and the cultural significance of these items.

Challenges and Complexities:

Repatriation is a complex process involving legal, ethical, and logistical challenges. Determining rightful ownership and ensuring proper care and preservation upon return are critical considerations. Additionally, questions arise about how to address the legacy of colonialism and rectify historical injustices.

The Way Forward:

The debate over repatriation is ongoing and highlights the need for respectful dialogue and cooperation between nations. While the return of looted artifacts is an essential step, it should also be part of broader efforts to promote cultural understanding, collaboration, and acknowledgment of historical wrongs.

The issue of Britain returning looted artifacts to Africa is part of a global conversation about justice, cultural heritage, and historical responsibility. While there are complexities to navigate, the growing recognition of the importance of repatriation signifies a potential path forward towards reconciliation and healing between nations and their shared history. The ongoing discussions reflect a commitment to addressing past injustices and fostering a more inclusive and culturally rich future.

They condemn slave trades yet they’re still with our treasures and cultural artifacts and heritage

[max1461]

I think there are three large classes of socialist concern, which are not reducible to each other and which require different types of solutions. I would describe them as follows:

Distributional concerns — Markets tend towards inequality, and thus even in times of abundance fail to allocate resources to people who need them.

Concerns over autonomy — Private control of resources, especially when it is highly concentrated, comes at the cost of the autonomy of those who don't control the resources. As a significant special case of this, private control of the means of production deprives workers of autonomy over their own work, which constitutes most of their waking lives. Concentration of property in the hands of the few leaves most people with no choice but to sell their labor, turning them into workers deprived of autonomy in the above sense.

Humanistic concerns — Markets optimize for specific outcomes and, furthermore, the desirable properties of market economies are predicated on the existence of firms which optimize for profit. In both cases these optimization procedures are premature; they do not factor in the full human condition and thus come at the cost of many things which people find desirable.

In my view, a successful socialist program must at least attempt to address all three of these concerns. Often when debating other socialists, I feel that they err by focusing on some of these concerns to the exclusion of the others.

I have listed these concerns in order of how difficult I believe them to be to solve. Concern (1) can, in fact, be solved relatively easily even within a liberal economic system, by implementing massive redistributive taxes that equalize wealth. I want to stress that this proposal is still radical by the standards of any nation on earth today, but a solution is easy to imagine. And all these problems are interrelated; solving (1), for instance, would go a long way towards remedying (2).

Concern (2) can also, I think, be solved or at least greatly mitigated under a market framework, though not a classical liberal one. Replacing private firms wholesale with worker co-ops would go along way towards addressing (2), and in combination with the above solution for (1) provides I think the easiest to conceptualize vision of what a workable socialist (socialist enough) economy might look like.

Concern (3) is by far the hardest to address—it is in essence just the alignment problem as applied to economic systems. Suffice it to say, the problem remains open.

A common theme I see in debates between certain (usually more liberal-leaning) practically-minded socialists and certain (usually more radical) utopian-minded socialists is that the practical socialist will propose some solution that aims to address (1) and (2), and the more utopian-minded socialist will respond with vague and often not particularly coherent accusations of insufficient radicalism. The practical socialist will often then reply by dismissing the utopian's criticisms as nothing but hot air, as unserious radical posturing. But I think this represents an unfortunate misunderstanding. That utopian is often pointing at something real, even if it is articulated in a way that offends more pragmatic sensibilities. Concern (3) touches on every part of human life, I think it's fair to say, and though the habit of incoherently blaming everything that goes wrong on capitalism is not that useful, it doesn't point at nothing.

The alignment problem is not solved in the general case, but there are things we can change about a system to try and make it more aligned with specific, known goals. So the job of a good socialist (or really, anyone interested in any kind of political reform) should then be to listen to the ways in which people are dissatisfied with their lives, even when articulated poorly, and try to accrue an understanding of the most recurrent and significant ways in which the present system fails to satisfy people. Then you can look for specific tweaks that will more readily accommodate the things people in fact seem to want. But crucially, this task in empirical—you cannot come upon the most desirable tweaks rationally. It's also empirical in a way that is difficult to approach with any kind of scientific rigor. You have to listen to people, and try to understand them on their own terms. You have to try to understand where people are coming from even if they phrase things in a way that you very much dislike, a way that irritates you or makes you feel threatened.

As I've said before, "listen to marginalized voices" is oft-misused, but not actually incorrect as a description of the practical obligations of anyone who wants to consider themself a leftist.

[chirpycloudyrobin]

The Xianzhou Wulin

The Xianzhou Wulin is one of the younger Xianzhou ships, built after the destruction of the Xianzhou Daiyu. Their Plaguemark is the Burial Mounds.

Arbiter-General: Jin Guangyao

This position has been held by the Nie clan of Xianzhou natives since time immemorial. However, the last Nie Arbiter-General was assassinated by Wen Ruohan of the Wen clan of Xianzhou natives who was, in turn, assassinated by Jin Guangyao of the Jin clan of Foxians. Jin Guangshan seized the position of Arbiter-General but then died of mysterious circumstances mere years later. His illegitimate Foxian son, Jin Guangyao, inherited the title after the rightful heir of Nie Xiuzhu was deemed unfit to hold the overall leadership figure.

Below the cut are information on the Wulin's Six Charioteers and its Vidyadhara High Elder.

The Six Charioteers

Cloud Knights - General Nie Xiuzhu (former); General Wen Ruohan (former); General Nie Mingjue

The Cloud Knights is Xianzhou's military institution. Each Xianzhou ship has a general commanding the army, with a marshal overseeing all generals. The Cloud Knights are responsible for wiping out the Denizens of Abundance, and regards an almost impossible task — putting an end to the undead corruption among the stars — as their duty. Historically, the title of the General of the Cloud Knights of the Wulin has been held by the Nie clan of Xianzhou natives.

Sky-Faring Commission - Helm Master Jiang Cheng / Jiang Wanyin

As the name suggests, the Sky-Faring Commission is in charge of affairs related to Xianzhou's internal airspace and interstellar navigation. All matters related to flight are the domains of the Sky-Faring Commission. The starskiff maintenance you often see on the Xianzhou also falls within their jurisdiction. Historically, the title of the Helm Master of the Wulin has been held by the Jiang clan of Xianzhou natives.

Divination Commission - Master Diviner Jin Guangyao

As its name suggests, the Divination Commission's main tasks are to predict the future, and to process and preserve information. Through the crystal technology called "the jade abacus," the Divination Commission's diviners chart the ships' routes, strategize with foresight, and scry into the past to predict the future. Historically, the title of the Master Diviner of the Wulin has been held by the Jin clan of Xianzhou natives.

Realm-Keeping Commission - Commissioner Lan Zhan / Lan Wangji

The Realm-Keeping Commission is Xianzhou's administrative organization, and the Commission that Xianzhou residents would normally have the most contact with. The Realm-Keeping Commission is responsible for matters such as population statistics, resource allocation, and calendar timing. Some of its staff are scholars who conduct professional academic research in sociology and ecology. Historically, the title of the Realm-Keeping Commissioner of the Wulin has been held by the Lan clan of Vidyadharas.

Artisanship Commission - Furnace Master Nie Huaisang

Artisanship is about crafting and manufacturing. Any object imaginable that can be manufactured, such as weapons, ship parts, and artificial intelligence, are all produced by the craftsmasters here. They pursue ingenious skills and strive for the goal of completing the "Great Smelting Furnace" ritual, and being awarded the title of "Furnace Master." This is one of the commissions on the Wulin where the leadership is not based on clan inheritance.

Alchemy Commission - Cauldron Master Wen Qing

The Alchemy Commission is responsible for biological and medical research. It is said that in ancient times, the ancestors of Xianzhou natives were not immortal. In order to be free from the three sufferings of old age, sickness, and death, they set sail to seek divine medicine. After gaining immortality, the Alchemy Commission used the miracle left by the Aeon to demonstrate the way of immortality. But now, the Alchemy Commission is in decline, and finally became a place where Outworlders seek medical treatment. Historically, the title of the Cauldron Master of the Wulin has been held by the Wen clan of Xianzhou natives.

The Vidyadhara High Elder

The Vidyadhara High Elder of the Wulin is the Primaevum Silvestris (Primeval Forest), the Successor of the Arboreal Dragon, Guardian of the Ancient Overgrowth. Its current incarnation is Lan Huan / Lan Xichen, Zewu-jun.

The Plaguemark

The Xianzhou Wulin's Plaguemark is the Burial Mounds, a mountain of memory. This is actually from a failed attempt of the Xianzhou to siphon memories out to prevent mara, but the experiment instead ended up making a living mountain. It is surrounded by a forest of ancient trees and overgrown pools that is maintained by the Primaevum Silvestris.

Wei Wuxian was once thrown into the Burial Mounds by Wen Chao in the midst of the Wulin Civil War but he emerged as a mutated version of himself who now has mysterious powers over the mara-struck. The rest of the Wulin saw this as Wei Wuxian betraying Lan the Hunt and him siding with Yaoshi the Abundance, which is how Wei Wuxian was exiled from the Wulin in the end.

[alienpossession]

INTERGALACTIC CRIME UNIT MALFUNCTION (I CUM) PART 1: OPENING

The Mystryan Supreme Court usually hired several young clerks to handle the administrative aspect of the court that the judges and other court staffers just unable to take care of due to their limited bandwidth. But it led to something disastrous as one of the intern turned out to be infected by mind-controlling parasite 1 mid-way his internship. The parasite, sent by the Dallon Ultranationalist, one of the separatist group in the Mystryan solar system empire, caused the young clerk to instead transported 250 canister filled with criminal alien essence through intergalactic portal to Northern America, Earth rather than their designated detainment place at Prixius Maximum Security Prison.

The canister scattered across North America and the impact of the drop to Earth's atmosphere caused the alien essence mostly instantly released upon landing. But it's not like it's scattered randomly as the parasite already forced the young clerk to do some research and then sifted through the young clerk's analysis over Earth's land mass and decided the coordinate of each landing, targeted mostly where the dominant Human, the male population in the patriarchal or male first system, mostly congregated. The essence, upon crash landing, then quickly travelled around its perimeter and directly filled the closest person they can find.

The aliens quickly find themselves in possession of human bodies and quickly realized that this might be the start of their new exploit as human are inferior beings blessed with abundant resource that can be easily exploited. Lucky for them, they ended up inside a bunch of what human society would deem as the more superior human as they are bigger, stronger and assert more control over the rest of the normal human.

The Gym

There were around 30+ canisters dropped in the Californian gym where a lot of fitness influencer gathered and also where some people with shady wealth worked out in best-in-class facility.

The aliens are originally in different species with varied shape, but the ICU condensed them into glowing energy sphere when they captured those alien criminals and locked them inside the canisters. Upon landing right in the parking yard of the gym, these spheres started to shoot themselves into the closest people they can find, filling out and taken over the unassuming bodies that just went about their day not knowing a bunch of extraterrestrial life form crash landed nearby.

The entire gym started to convulse wildly and screamed in agony when those spheres forced their way inside of them. In just under 5 minutes, all of the gymgoers already taken over as the essence basically enveloped the human brain and seize the bodily control from capturing the vessel's brain

The frat bros

In the other end of the Coast and a little bit more on the South, specifically Florida, 50+ canisters dropped on the backyard of a frat house known as Pike. The university is practically lit with glowing lights as there's a university-wide music festival held. The spheres practically used the rave music festival as a cover for their takeover. The glowing lights, the mostly high party goers, the loud music that muffled scream of being taken over, all the unassuming men quickly fall victim to the extraterrestrial being that want to use their body as mere puppet to hide themselves from the surely incoming intergalactic crime unit

The military base

These are more sporadic, but the coordinate placed a couple canisters in a couple military bases and its surrounding town throughout North America. Unlucky for the base and town populace, the parasite that controlled the young clerk already allocated its fellow species to these coordinates and despite not having too much canisters dropped in their area, the infectious parasitic alien will quickly takeover the entire military base and town as they will use their human vessel to spread around and seize control of the critical military infrastructure

These alien are more than thrilled to start their conquest upon Earth's populace and their resources as they finally made aware after tapping their human vessel's brain how much advantage they have to reside inside bunch of men with strong, hulking figure having wide range of network to advance their interest

Hey everyone, a new start for a new series while I tried to gather what I can write for my original piece. I actually want to explore deeper of each of these pictures so expect some heavy edits on this post later so maybe don't reblog it right away?

[theambitiouswoman]

Hello! Do you have tips, advices or any helpful resources on financial independence for beginners? Thankyou in advance!

Of course 💞

Generally, to gain financial independence you need to start by setting a goal. After you set a goal you need to write down your actual scenario as it currently standards. Then you brain map different strategies and actions you can take.

This is probably the easiest time to establish financial independence. It doesn’t matter if you’re 15 or 55, because of all of the tools available to us on the internet.

As a base:

Set a financial goal: Start by setting a specific financial goal that you want to achieve, such as paying off debt, saving for a down payment on a home, or building an emergency fund. Having a clear goal in mind will help you stay focused and motivated.

Create a budget: A budget is a crucial tool for achieving financial independence. Start by tracking your expenses and income, and then create a budget that allocates your income towards your financial goals and expenses. Consider using a budgeting app or spreadsheet to make this process easier.

Mint is budgeting app I use, it helps you track your expenses, set financial goals, and stay on top of your finances.

Reduce expenses: Look for ways to reduce your expenses, such as cutting back on unnecessary subscriptions or finding ways to save on utilities and groceries. This will free up more money to put towards your financial goals. Just like time, people don’t realize how much money they waste. Every bit counts and adds up. Make sure you’re investing your money on things that are absolutely needed- and not simply wasting money you can be using to make more money.

Invest for the future: investing your money in a retirement account or other long-term investment vehicle. Accounts that pay dividends. This can help you build wealth and achieve financial independence over time. This requires some capital and you should have some money saved before you consider starting.

Some authors I recommend would be:

1. Dave Ramsey: The Total Money Makeover

2. Robert Kiyosaki: Rich Dad Poor Dad. His YouTube channel is a gold mine. https://m.youtube.com/@TheRichDadChannel

3. JL Collins: The Simple Path to Wealth

4. Ramit Sethi: I Will Teach You to Be Rich

In order to achieve financial independence, it’s Important to build passive income streams. Passive income requires a smaller budget than what people may believe. If any, in some scenarios.

Passive income can be for example:

Dividend Stocks

Affiliate marketing

Selling digital products

Royalties

Real estate investing

Side hustles can also be passive income steam, and/or have the ability to replace your current main income stream.

I can give you a ton of side hustle ideas. Hundreds. That you can do using your computer. If you give me niches that interest you, I can list recommendations.

The most important aspect however, is mindset. Having a positive mindset when it comes to money and wealth. Your mindset will either drive you to take actions or hold you back. Your thoughts and beliefs about money can have a profound impact on your financial success. Learn how to develop a mindset of abundance and to think creatively about how they can increase their income and build wealth.

[notallthoseinheadspace]

So I cleaned up this little fic I wrote, Stronger, and expanded on it - have some sweet angsty brotherly bonding between Tech and Echo. Posting it now before the finale destroys us all so please pardon typos and tense changes.

Now also on AO3!

If you’d like some angst with your flansgt, Stronger is a sequel to Heartbeats, which is part of my prediction for canon.

CW: panic attack, emotional disregulation from PTSD, survivor guilt, etc.

Speculatively post-canon.

PG-ish, Echo & Tech brotherly bonding over their trauma.

STRONGER

The pavilion was soaked in the golden light of late evening. His family, friends, and acquaintances surrounded him. There was abundant food and drink remaining, and he was completely safe.

Tech wished that he was anywhere else.

The noise of over a dozen overlapping voices, the ache of his not-yet-fully-healed scars, the myriad scents of the food, drink, and environment, even the warmth of the setting sun combined to create a distracting level of sensory overload after months spent in the quiet of isolation.

He could see glances being exchanged - Hunter to Echo, Echo to Phee, the last of whom glanced back to him, nodded, and abruptly stood on the seat of her chair. “In honor of recovering our treasured friends, let me tell you about the time - ”

Tech allowed himself to tune out her speech, although he acknowledged the gratitude he felt for her distraction of the others. It allowed him to slide out of his corner seat - and he acknowledged his gratitude to Crosshair as well, for surrendering the more isolated chair to him - and hastily walked away.

There was a far more isolated pavilion not far away, with a high stone wall and several large, broad-leafed native plants, which created a level of privacy he currently finds necessary. While it was often occupied by people attempting physical intimacy, it was thankfully unoccupied at present, and he ducked between the shielding flora to lean his elbows against the wall and press his head into his hands.

“It doesn’t get better if you don’t talk about it, you know.”

Snarling, Tech whirled on the intruder, the violent anger that he was still unaccustomed to biting at his impulses. How dare some reg come and presume to lecture him? “You don’t know - ah.”

Wincing both at his mistake and a tight throb of pain from his scars, Tech slumped back against the wall, motioning his chosen brother in. “My apologies, Echo, I did not realize it was you speaking.”

“It’s all right, you’ve got a lot on your mind at the moment. I understand.”

Another bite of irrational anger rose in him, and Tech shoved the emotion aside with far more mental effort than such things had ever required. Echo would understand, possibly better than anyone else. “If you will forgive the insensitivity of my statement, it is… easy, for others, to forget that you were once The Algorithm.”

Arching an eyebrow, Echo parted the leaves of the plant and stepped through, gesturing at the length of his body - depigmented eyes and skin, cranial ports, reduced muscle mass, artificial legs - with his scomp arm. “Really?”

“I did not know you before your imprisonment, and only have holographic records to remind me that you were once a standard clone,” Tech reminded him, turning back to rest both elbows on the wall again. “To me, your current state is as I have always known you. You are Echo as you are, not…”

“An echo of my old self?”

“That pun is both one you have repeated often and poor enough wordplay to cause me physical pain.”

“The pun isn’t all that’s causing you pain, though.”

“It is not,” Tech admitted, carefully sliding his repaired goggles off and letting them hang from his wrist so he could more freely rub the scars spiderwebbing across the side of his face. “Full repair of the nerve damage would have required more resources than were allocated, and physical pain in CX operatives was deemed irrelevant.”

Echo made a noise under his breath that Tech can only classify as a growl and moved to stand beside him at the wall, resting his elbows on the stone beside Tech���s own, and listed sideways enough to gently knock their shoulders together.

“I still get phantom pains from my legs, sometimes,” Echo offered, his tone light, and Tech recognized the conversational prompt for what it was, although he was unsure whether he appreciated it or not.

“I am aware that discussion of traumatic events is shown to help reduce their long-term psychological impact, but I am… uncertain of my ability to do so at the moment. To do so safely, I believe I must first rectify the instability of my current emotional state as well as recall and comprehend the conditioning I was subjected to on Tantiss, and I wish to speak to Crosshair in order to understand why he was immune to such conditioning when I was not, and - ”

The frantic, ever-hastening tumble of words was halted by Echo’s hand gripping his shoulder, giving him the lightest of shakes - everyone was treating him as though he was fragile, now, as though his scars had not healed.

“Tech, breathe.”

Tech sucked in a deep breath, then winced and coughed weakly, one hand rising to rub at the starburst scar high on his left pectoral, the bacta patch on it not entirely removing the pain. Perhaps everyone’s current treatment of him was not unwarranted.

Echo kept the hand on his shoulder, the gentle grip grounding, until Tech’s breathing had regained a more normal rhythm, and for several minutes they sat in silence, watching the moon-yos scampering about in the trees below them.

“I don’t imagine Crosshair’s going to use his rifle again,” Echo said softly, apropos of apparently nothing, and Tech exhaled sharply with another wince.

“I am certainly fortunate to have survived. A direct hit from a Firepuncher rifle bolt, particularly one modified as Crosshair’s has been, would typically result in death regardless of the quality of one’s armor.”

“I don’t think he’s ever been so grateful to have missed a target,” Echo remarked, “even if you did pop up and declare ‘Crosshair, you missed,’ you little shit.”

“It was an accurate observation! I have not known Crosshair to miss a target without injury being involved, and I was unaware of his tremor at the time, so I had no basis for comprehending such a phenomenon! Also, I did not ‘pop up’ - ”

“No, you stayed down long enough to give all of us heart attacks, because your damn helmet fell off - ”

“I do not understand what the - truly inadequate, I might add - state of the Empire’s armor has to do with inducing myocardial infarctions in the squad - ”

“ - and we saw your face on the assassin Crosshair had just shot - ”

“Oh.”

“Yeah.”

“….he would not be the first of us to kill a clone,” Tech said softly, leaning a little more heavily against Echo’s shoulder. “I would not, in fact, even be the first clone he had killed, and I was willing to give my life to ensure the survival of the squad previously. His actions were objectively correct, even if he had been aware of my identity at the time.”

“If he’d been aware of your identity, he never would have taken the shot,” Echo countered, shifting enough for his head to rest ever-so-gently against Tech’s.

“Not taking the shot would have been illogical. I was a threat to the lives of the squad at the time.”

“Feelings aren’t logical or objective, Tech.”

“I am aware, which is why they are often difficult for me to process. I am struggling to even categorize the emotions my experience as a CX-trooper have left me with, although I have identified guilt, inadequacy, anger, resentment, and what I believe to be grief. I was unable to resist the programming as Crosshair was, despite having been deliberately engineered for my intellect, for the strength of my mind, while Crosshair, who was created to - to shoot accurately - was able to resist the entirety of the reconditioning, and to escape Tantiss with Omega’s help, while I was so fully under the command of our enemy that I not only destroyed our home, I returned our sister to them!”

Tech was aware, distantly, that his voice had been rising both in speed and pitch as he spoke, but he was unprepared for the way his breath seized in his chest, shattering the last words into broken gasps.

Echo, to his credit, very gently took hold of Tech’s shoulders and turned him so they stood back-to-chest, then guided them downwards to sit with Echo’s back braced against the stone wall and Tech leaning against his side facing outward, easily able to move away from the contact if he desired.

He did not so desire, and he curled his legs up and turned enough that he could press his face into Echo’s throat, grounding himself in the sharp press of armor and the sound of Echo’s breath and heartbeat and the familiar scent of his brother, and let the overwhelming tide of emotions drag him under, knowing he was safe.

The moon had fully risen by the time Tech felt his physical equilibrium return entirely - breathing and heart rate still elevated but within tolerances, temperature returned to normal, emotions… at least moderately under control, if not as easily regulated as was both typical and preferred.

Echo had remained stedfast throughout his breakdown, his touch minimal and gentle, and humming softly instead of speaking, as he knew Tech’s preferences were.

Rather than removing himself from the contact, though, Tech remained settled against his brother’s chest, drawing comfort from the motion of Echo’s breathing and the sound of his heartbeat beneath him.

“I regret not being stronger,” he admitted softly, and felt Echo’s chest dip with a heavy sigh.

“It wasn’t a matter of strength, believe me, not with people like that. If they decide they’re going to break you, or make you into something else, they won’t stop until they’ve done it.”

“Crosshair was able to resist them.”

Echo chuckled softly, though it was a broken sort of sound. “You did too, if you think about it.”

“Echo, I am aware you have not been present for significant portions of my - ”

“Tech. I can read a damned report whether I was present for something or not. And I’m not focused on what you did, I’m focused on what you didn’t do.”

“…please elaborate.”

“You landed the charges on the Marauder while Wrecker and Gonky were outside of it and gave them time to get clear. You didn’t shoot Hunter, you shot down the pilot of the ship he was trying to hijack and let him swim away. You scared the civilians here, but you didn’t hurt any of them.”

“I killed numerous members of Rex’s team on Teth.”

“Oh, we can compare kill counts if you want. I know exactly how many casualties I was responsible for under Tambor’s control. Brothers, Jedi, enemies, civilians. Should I have been stronger?”

“Echo, our situations were completely different - ”

“How?”

It was just one word, rough-toned and accompanied by the slightest tightening of Echo’s hand on his shoulder, but Tech found that he had no answer. Both of them had been injured, captured, forced against their will into positions that had harmed them and those they loved. And while Tech’s experience had been more personal, the number of lives Echo had inadvertently taken had undoubtedly been higher.

Echo, reading his silence correctly, jostled his shoulder lightly. “I understand feeling guilty, Tech. It’s probably not avoidable. But the harm didn’t come from you. The resistance did.”

“Is that why you joined Rex rather than remain with us? Out of a sense of guilt or a necessity for atonement?”

It was Echo’s turn to be silent, now. Tech leaned back enough to regard his brother - without his goggles on, his vision was a muddle of sharp clarity from his cybernetic eye and the blurriness of his natural one, and he pulled his goggles back on with a grimace.

Echo’s expression was distant, and while not blank it was entirely unreadable, though the thoughts were clearly racing behind his eyes.

“I had thought it was just a desire to help my brothers, to get them out of a situation like I’d been in,” he remarked after a long moment of silence. “But… yeah. I guess atonement was part of it, too.”

“If I have nothing to atone for, Echo, then neither do you.”

“But I - ”

“Either both of us are guilty, or neither of us are. If the situations of our actions are fundamentally identical, then so too is that conclusion.”

Echo opened his mouth, closed it again, visibly weighed his thoughts - organically, as he had destroyed his neural interface on Tantiss to prevent it from falling into enemy hands, and it had yet to be replaced - and finally sighed, before shaking his head with a soft, rough laugh.

“And here I was trying to help you feel better.”

“Perhaps I will feel better with my family in a healthier emotional state.”

Chuckling, Echo knocked their foreheads lightly together in a keldabe, easily avoiding the sharp rim of Tech’s goggles. “Maybe you will. We’ll work on it.”

Smiling, Tech braced himself on the sharp juts of Echo’s knees to push himself to his feet, then offered his hands down to help Echo up. “We will work on it. Together.”

[ END STRONGER]

[financialhacksandinsights]

Financial Hacks and Insights Entry No. 6

How Chinkee Tan's Books and the Piso Planner Changed My Financial Life

I still remember the day I stumbled upon Chinkee Tan's book, "Diary of a Pulubi," at the local bookstore. Little did I know, this would be the start of a journey toward financial freedom. As someone who had struggled with managing my finances for years as a student, I was skeptical about yet another self-help book. However, something about Chinkee Tan's straightforward and relatable style resonated with me.

Discovering Chinkee Tan's Wisdom

Chinkee Tan's books, like "Till Debt Do Us Part" and "Rich God Poor God," quickly became my go-to resources. His philosophy was simple: master the basics of personal finance, eliminate debt, and cultivate a mindset of abundance. What set his teachings apart was his ability to break down complex financial concepts into practical, actionable steps. For the first time, I felt like I had a clear path to follow.

One of the most impactful lessons I learned from Tan was the importance of financial literacy. He emphasized that understanding how money works is the first step towards financial independence. I started by setting up a budget using the guidelines from his books, tracking every peso that came in and went out. This simple act of budgeting was eye-opening. I realized how much money I was wasting on non-essentials, and I began to see opportunities to save and invest.

Embracing the Piso Planner

While Chinkee Tan's books laid the foundation, it was the Piso Planner that truly brought his teachings to life for me. The planner became my daily companion, a tool that helped me stay on track and motivated. With its goal-setting sections, budgeting worksheets, and financial trackers, the Piso Planner provided a structured approach to managing my finances.

Building a Financial Roadmap

With my debt under control, I turned my attention to building an emergency fund and saving for future investments. The Piso Planner's budgeting tools made it easy to allocate funds towards savings and track my progress. Each month, I reviewed my expenses, identified areas where I could cut back, and adjusted my budget accordingly. The planner's visual trackers allowed me to see my savings grow, which was a huge motivator.

One of the most powerful aspects of the Piso Planner was its holistic approach to financial planning. It wasn't just about budgeting and saving; it was about creating a financial roadmap that encompassed both short-term and long-term goals. I began to think about my financial future in a more strategic way, potential investments, and even unexpected expenses.

The Transformation

As I continued to apply Chinkee Tan's principles and use the Piso Planner diligently, my financial situation improved dramatically. But beyond the numbers, what truly changed was my mindset. I no longer felt overwhelmed by my finances; instead, I felt empowered and in control.

The stories of others who had found success with Tan's teachings and the Piso Planner were inspiring and reaffirming. Like them, I had grown my savings, and developed the confidence to make informed financial decisions.

Conclusion

Looking back, discovering Chinkee Tan's books and the Piso Planner was a turning point in my life. They provided the knowledge, tools, and motivation I needed to take charge of my financial future. If you're struggling with your finances or simply looking to improve your financial literacy, I highly recommend starting with Chinkee Tan's books and incorporating the Piso Planner into your daily routine. They have the power to transform your financial life, just as they did mine.

Take that first step today, and embark on your journey towards financial freedom with Chinkee Tan and the Piso Planner. You won't regret it.

[fun-full-fill]

Unlocking the Potential of SEO Services in Jaipur: Empowering Your Digital Presence

In the vibrant landscape of Jaipur, where tradition meets modernity, businesses are increasingly recognizing the pivotal role of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) services in propelling their online presence to new heights. As the Pink City embraces the digital era, leveraging SEO services has become not just a necessity but a strategic imperative for businesses striving to stand out in the competitive online sphere.

Jaipur, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit, presents a fertile ground for businesses to thrive. However, in the digital realm, success hinges on visibility, and that's where SEO comes into play. By optimizing their online content, businesses in Jaipur can enhance their visibility on search engine results pages (SERPs), attracting organic traffic and engaging with a broader audience.

One of the key aspects of SEO services in Jaipur is local optimization. With the rising demand for local businesses and services, targeting the local market becomes paramount. SEO techniques tailored to Jaipur's local audience, including keyword optimization, Google My Business optimization, and local link building, can significantly enhance a business's visibility among local consumers. Whether it's a traditional handicraft store in Johari Bazaar or a modern café in C-Scheme, local SEO empowers businesses to connect with their target audience in Jaipur effectively.

Furthermore, Jaipur's burgeoning startup ecosystem underscores the importance of SEO services for emerging businesses. In a landscape where startups are striving to carve their niche, having a robust online presence is non-negotiable. SEO services offer startups in Jaipur a cost-effective means to compete with established players, level the playing field, and amplify their reach. By implementing SEO strategies such as content optimization, mobile optimization, and website usability enhancement, startups can enhance their online visibility and accelerate their growth trajectory.

Moreover, Jaipur's thriving tourism industry presents abundant opportunities for businesses to capitalize on. From heritage hotels to tour operators, businesses in the tourism sector can harness the power of SEO to attract travelers and explorers seeking authentic experiences in the Pink City. By optimizing their online content with relevant keywords and compelling meta descriptions, businesses can rank higher on search engine results for tourist-related queries, thereby attracting potential visitors and driving conversions.

In addition to enhancing visibility, SEO services in Jaipur also foster credibility and trust among consumers. In an era where online reputation can make or break a business, appearing at the top of search engine results instills confidence in potential customers. By consistently delivering valuable and relevant content, businesses can establish themselves as authoritative voices in their respective industries, earning the trust and loyalty of their target audience.

Furthermore, the analytics-driven nature of SEO enables businesses in Jaipur to gain valuable insights into consumer behavior and preferences. By tracking metrics such as website traffic, bounce rates, and conversion rates, businesses can refine their SEO strategies, optimize their marketing efforts, and stay ahead of the curve. This data-driven approach empowers businesses to make informed decisions, allocate resources effectively, and maximize their return on investment (ROI).

In conclusion, SEO services have emerged as indispensable tools for businesses in Jaipur seeking to thrive in the digital landscape. By embracing SEO strategies tailored to the local market, businesses can enhance their online visibility, attract relevant traffic, and foster meaningful connections with their target audience. As Jaipur continues its journey towards digital transformation, investing in SEO services is not just a choice but a strategic imperative for businesses aspiring to unlock their full potential in the digital realm.

read more articals:- fun full fill

[bookwyrminspiration]

adding on to that previous ask. sorry i had to go do something in the middle of typing 😭

i understand that its not the focus of the books, but i think for how much the two secret societies are tied to the government its a little strange the gov. isnt very reliably elaborated on.

It's almost like the Lost Cities' government is a formality, not an actual governing force. Since its formed under the assumption that elves are good and things like crime and corruption are below them, a problem of other species, and since the Lost Cities are prospering, the point of the government...kind of disappears.

The council enforces and punished broken laws, but since people don't break the laws (or at least so they thought) they're not needed for that. The allocation of resources becomes redundant when they're in constant abundance and never wanting for everything. Resources don't need to be controlled because everyone has access, and all those people can be trusted to be wise and fair because, again, elves are good.

There's just a few things that can't be left to the entire population, like meeting with foreign ruling powers. You need an appointed person. And it's entirely possible that part of having a specific group of people to refer to is for the sake of appearances to the others. It makes them appear more structured and put together, like a cohesive world instead of just a bunch of people left to their own devices, who could be vulnerable to attack.

So I think perhaps the reason we don't see the government elaborated on a lot is because there's nothing to elaborate on. A lot of the typical roles we associate with government aren't necessary here (in precedented times. the current time period is a bit fucked up but this is a temporary blip). It really is a basic and unbalanced as it seems.

It is unusual for a series with non-insignificant secret societies rebellion against and trying to fix the system to not go into more detail or have more detail, but I think it's all connected back to the fact that elves aren't supposed to need that. But these are just my reflections, who knows how accurate they are :)

[lingshanhermit]

Lingshan Hermit: What is the most significant distinction between humans and animals?

Our inhabited blue planet is replete with abundant food, plentiful water, and a vast array of resources. If these resources were divided on a per capita basis, they would be more than enough to ensure a carefree life for all.

We are humans. The most striking difference between us and animals is not our ability to use tools, control fire, or walk upright, but rather our possession of sufficient wisdom to allocate these resources, ensuring everyone's basic needs are met without concern.

Humans should not live like animals in the jungle, perpetually on high alert and anxiety-ridden, fearful of either failing to capture other animals for sustenance or becoming prey themselves.

However, to this day, we have yet to fulfill these expectations that are inherently ours. Our planet's civilization, as it's said, has spanned a continuous five thousand years, yet countless people still lack access to clean water and ample food. They lack stable homes, living instead amid garbage heaps swarming with flies, while others hold wealth rivaling entire nations. Some individuals could provide for an African village for several years with the money they spend on a single tie, while others toil laboriously for mere pennies.

This is due to our lack of a sense of security and our endeavor for self-preservation. We operate under the misconception that possessing more ensures greater safety. This isn't the truth. The more we own, the tighter our bindings become. We find ourselves investing increasing amounts of time and energy in safeguarding what we possess. Our fear of loss intensifies, and our capacity to withstand loss diminishes. Consequently, we must bare our teeth in an imposing manner to deter others from daring to infringe upon what we have. Human society is increasingly mirroring the jungle, with everyone viewing each other as potential threats. Among those perceived as threats, some indeed pose a danger, some initially did not, but gradually they too morph into threats. In the fight to protect their turf, everyone is snarling at one another.

We have been educated to believe that the sense of security must be derived from possessing more money or power than others. This idea has led to a severe imbalance in the distribution of resources on Earth. "Survival of the fittest," I believe, is one of the most absurd views I've ever heard about humankind. I've always held the belief that such a perspective could only originate from a beast that lacks wisdom.

Suppose we have enough bread to feed ten people. Why would we let these ten people fight amongst themselves until only two remain, and these two can't even consume the bread meant for ten people? Most of the bread begins to mold while some individuals are starving. Only a beast lacking wisdom would act in such a manner. Some people might feel that possessing more bread, even if they do not consume it, provides a greater sense of security. Or it could provide them with power. This is where politics begins.

A glance at the history of various countries worldwide will reveal countless facts proving the absurdity of this notion. It's hard to imagine a person surrounded by a group of homeless individuals, famished for several days, feeling secure while clutching a large amount of food.

It's said that more than a hundred years ago, the genius Tesla had already invented a method for the wireless transmission of electricity, which was almost free. However, due to the selfishness and foolishness of certain individuals and groups, who wanted to highlight their own importance, these technologies were suppressed. Even today, we still have to pay for our electricity usage.

Humans rely on monopolizing resources to gain money and power, aiming to achieve a sense of security, which in turn supports the "self" that has never actually existed. The root of all human corruption and decay lies in this fact. Although humans have designed various systems of checks and balances to combat corruption, the source of corruption lies in the need to satisfy the unfulfillable existence of the "self" and the notion that the more one possesses, the safer one is.

Written by Lingshan Hermit on February 17, 2016.

Copyright Notice：All copyrights of Ling Shan Hermit's articles in Simplified and Traditional Chinese, English, and other languages belong to the natural person who owns "Ling Shan Hermit". Please respect copyright. Publishers, media, or individuals (including but not limited to internet media, websites, personal spaces, Weibo, WeChat public accounts, print media) must obtain authorization from Ling Shan Hermit before use. No modifications to the articles are allowed (including: author's name, title, main text content, and punctuation marks). We reserve all legal rights.

灵山居士：人类与动物最大的区别是？

[amyra01056]

Digital marketing

Digital Marketing: Navigating the Digital Landscape

In the modern age, the landscape of marketing has undergone a profound transformation. Gone are the days when businesses solely relied on traditional advertising channels such as television, radio, and print media to reach their target audiences. The digital revolution has given birth to a new era of marketing – digital marketing. This dynamic field leverages the power of the internet, technology, and data to connect with consumers in ways that were once unimaginable.

Defining Digital Marketing

Digital marketing encompasses a broad range of strategies and tactics aimed at promoting products, services, or brands through online channels. It's a versatile approach that includes various components, such as search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, social media marketing, email marketing, pay-per-click advertising (PPC), and more. The primary goal is to engage, inform, and persuade potential customers through the digital realm.

Key Components of Digital Marketing

Search Engine Optimization (SEO): SEO is the art and science of optimizing a website's content and structure to rank higher in search engine results. This organic strategy is essential for increasing visibility and driving organic traffic.

Content Marketing: High-quality content is the backbone of digital marketing. Blog posts, articles, videos, infographics, and other content forms educate and engage audiences while building trust and authority.

Social Media Marketing: Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn provide valuable channels for businesses to connect with their target demographics, promote their products or services, and build brand loyalty.

Email Marketing: Email marketing remains one of the most effective tools for nurturing leads and maintaining relationships with customers. Personalized email campaigns can drive conversions and increase customer retention.

Pay-Per-Click Advertising (PPC): PPC advertising, such as Google Ads, allows businesses to display ads to a highly targeted audience. Advertisers pay a fee each time their ad is clicked, making it a cost-effective way to drive traffic and conversions.

The Importance of Data and Analytics

One of the most significant advantages of digital marketing is the abundance of data available to marketers. Through tools like Google Analytics and social media insights, businesses can track user behavior, measure campaign performance, and make data-driven decisions. This data allows marketers to refine their strategies, allocate resources effectively, and optimize their return on investment (ROI).

Adapting to Change

Digital marketing is in a constant state of evolution. New technologies, platforms, and trends emerge regularly, challenging marketers to adapt and stay ahead of the curve. As artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning continue to advance, automation and personalization are becoming integral to digital marketing strategies. Voice search, chatbots, and virtual reality are also changing the way consumers interact with brands.

Challenges in Digital Marketing

While digital marketing offers immense opportunities, it also comes with challenges. Competition for online visibility is fierce, making it crucial for businesses to stand out. Privacy concerns and regulations, such as GDPR and CCPA, require marketers to handle user data responsibly and transparently. Additionally, the ever-shifting algorithms of search engines and social media platforms demand continuous learning and adjustment.

Conclusion

In the digital age, businesses must embrace digital marketing to thrive in the competitive landscape. This multifaceted approach leverages the power of the internet, technology, and data to engage and persuade consumers. With a focus on SEO, content marketing, social media, email, and data-driven decision-making, companies can effectively navigate the digital marketing landscape and build lasting connections with their target audiences. To succeed, businesses must remain agile, adapt to emerging trends, and prioritize delivering value to their customers in this dynamic digital realm.

[cassidyreturns]

Original Miss: A War on Hope

TW: Capitalism, Patriarchy & Sin

"No, I am not who you think I am. I am so much more, I am One with Source. I am Limitless, Infinite, Powerful, Abundant, Complete from the Start, Creator of All. I Am that I Am." -Fia

The idea of "Original Sin" is so prevalent in American culture.

I have never been a Christian, or follower of any Abrahamic religion, but I have been rooting out their teachings all my life.

It is the foundation in which our Western society was built upon: the idea that there is something inherently wrong with you, even at your birth. (Sidebar: Doesn't this sound GREAT for commerce?)

If we are not born Good, then the rest of our lives are spent trying to find Redemption, correct?

And if we are all born with a Moral deficit for simply Existing, who is to Blame for that?

And what does an Effective Punishment look like in the Material when the possibility of the pits of Hell are still waiting for you?

.

.

.

Capitalism, Patriarchy and Sin are all attempts to remove Divinity, especially from marginalized groups. To remove the Divinity from something is to remove Dignity. (Others call this their 'Humanity.')

These three are a DEADLY combination used as an agent of control over the masses. It is so effective, that even the citizens will police each other on the day-to-day because underneath it all is the assumption that they, and their neighbors, are not Good.

We see this in books, movies and other stories of heroism--if something is Bad, it deserves punishment, usually at any means necessary. The ends justify the means, so to speak. And don't most of us fancy ourselves the hero?

Under capitalistic governance, we use the other two (patriarchy and sin) to justify how we make our laws and our cultural rules. We use these governmental and cultural decrees to allocate our artificial and organic resources. For example, it is a governmental-backing that if someone needs something, they should have to work for it. (Money).

We all KNOW we have basic needs that HAVE to be met in order to continue living. But with commerce and government dictating even our basic-level needs, creating a life in which we are free to thrive almost seems comical.

If you do not have the Freedom to Live, (basic needs = survival) you do not have the Freedom to be your most Authentic Self.

If you do not have the Freedom to be your most Authentic Self, you do not have the Freedom to pursue Happiness.

And without the pursuit of Happiness, there is no Hope.

.

.

.

The culmination of these, and other forms of oppression, are designed to only amplify and enhance themselves and each other with their entanglement. The goal is to have our morals and our actions jumbled up so intently, it resembles a mess of cords with no direct starting or ending place. Get your hands on it, follow one all the way through to its origin--then three more tangle, and it somehow looks worse than before.

There is war going on - for your Body, Mind & Spirit.

We can no longer treat Hope as a luxury; we simply cannot afford it.

[liatkolink]

That's fucked up, and it shows how poor people have to jump through so many hoops to be able to "get their shit together". There's roadblock after roadblock after roadblock it's absurd to expect anybody to come out of that hole, let alone EVERYONE. And many people act like being in that hole is what they deserve. That they aren't doing enough to leave the hole. It's fucked up and we gotta be more compassionate towards poor people regardless of how they got there.

We should make strides and build a society where nobody is poor, not because we kick them out, but because we prevent them from being poor in the first place. We have abundance of resources. It's just a matter of allocating them appropriately.

[ID: Tweets from Emily 'Soup Lesbian' Gwen (@theemilygwen) on twitter with the following text:

Well, just left a job interview crying because the hiring manager told me they liked my application but were disappointed that I didn't bother dressing appropriately. I tried to explain that I haven't been able to afford new clothes in years but I just couldn't handle it.

That comment and my reaction was one of the most mortifying moments of my life. I thought I put together a decent outfit for the job with what I had, and hearing her say that just destroyed me.

Anyway I'm still looking for work and struggling a lot. Even $5 would help pay for a meal. ko-fi.com/emilygwen

End ID]

Please help Emily Gwen, the creator of the lesbian flag. If you show me that you donated any amount I will draw you something. You can also support them by buying something from their Threadless store!

[archupnet]

Financial Management in Architectural Practice: Challenges, Strategies, and Opportunities Financial management is one of the most critical determinants of success or failure for any architectural firm. Given the diversity in the types of architectural offices in the market—ranging from sole proprietorships to large corporate firms—each faces unique financial challenges requiring tailored strategies to achieve profitability and meet objectives. This article explores how financial management impacts different types of architectural offices and examines the opportunities and challenges they face. Types of Architectural Firms and Their Financial Challenges The architectural market is home to a variety of office structures, from small-scale sole proprietorships to mid-sized firms and large multinational corporations. - Sole Proprietorships: These are often run by a single architect or a small group of employees, facing significant challenges in managing costs due to limited financial resources and project volume fluctuations. For example, during periods without active projects, the architect must be flexible in managing expenses, including salaries and overheads. In such cases, owners may need to defer salaries or cut costs to avoid deficits. - Mid-Sized Firms: Compared to sole proprietorships, mid-sized firms operate with a more stable footing, as they can allocate their team across multiple projects. However, the challenge lies in managing cash flow to ensure regular payroll and cover operational expenses, particularly when client payments are delayed. Good financial management helps prevent liquidity issues that could lead to operational interruptions. - Large Corporate Firms: Large architectural firms benefit from diverse projects and clients, but they also face significant challenges related to high fixed costs, such as payroll and administrative expenses. A market downturn can heavily impact profits, necessitating intense competition for contracts to maintain financial balance. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many larger firms had to adapt by reducing workforce or rethinking project pipelines to manage overheads effectively. Impact of Salaries and Flexibility in the Workplace In most architectural firms, salaries constitute a major portion of fixed costs, making them critical to financial sustainability. During times of abundant work, salaries can be lucrative, but when project work slows down, it becomes essential to cut expenses or adjust staffing structures to minimize financial strain. For instance, in a city like New York, where competition among architectural offices is fierce, flexibility in managing salaries and overheads is vital for survival. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2022 reports, around 40% of small architectural firms closed within the last decade due to their inability to adapt to financial volatility. Financial Challenges of Competition and Quality Competition in the architectural market varies significantly between cities. In Jeddah, for example, the large number of architectural firms intensifies competition for clients and pricing, which can significantly impact service quality. Many firms may offer lower prices to secure contracts, resulting in compromised quality. In contrast, in cities like New York, architects focus on building strong reputations and delivering high-quality services, which helps them stand out in a competitive market. Quality is a significant factor in determining a firm's future, as clients willing to pay higher fees expect superior design and services. This explains why firms that prioritize low-cost services often cannot compare to firms focused on innovation and excellence. Financial Pressures of Establishing an Architectural Office Establishing an architectural office is far from simple; it requires careful financial management and planning. According to an AIA (American Institute of Architects) 2023 report, the average cost of establishing a small architectural office in a city like New York is approximately $150,000, covering rent, salaries, and office setup. In contrast, the market in Dubai is more diverse but requires similar caution in planning expenses, especially given the rising number of architectural firms and increased competition. The primary challenge is balancing the provision of high-quality architectural services while ensuring profitability sufficient to cover work costs and associated risks. Achieving this balance demands that architects not only excel in design but also deeply understand financial management and planning. Quality as a Determinant of Market Value Quality plays a crucial role in determining an architectural firm's position in the market. Firms that focus on delivering innovative and sustainable designs can establish a strong presence even in the most competitive markets. For instance, Norman Foster has successfully created an architectural brand known for quality and innovation, enabling him to thrive despite intense competition. Thus, excellence in design and attention to detail are key to an architectural firm's success. Effective financial management also plays a vital role in supporting innovation and ensuring sustainability. Profits can be reinvested in research and development, as well as hiring top talent, which enhances the overall quality of work and attracts clients seeking distinction. Conclusion Financial management in architectural practice is the key to success and sustainability in a challenging market. Whether the firm is a sole proprietorship or a large corporation, managing cash flow, covering fixed expenses, and adapting to market fluctuations are crucial factors for survival and success. As competition increases, quality and innovation become indispensable tools for enhancing a firm's market position and achieving sustainable profits. Ultimately, financial excellence is as important as design excellence, with both contributing to the realization of the firm's architectural vision. https://archup.net/architects-salaries/ Read the full article

[educationtech]

5 common mistakes to avoid during JEE/NEET preparation: Learn from past aspirants

Arya College of Engineering & I.T. make you prepare for competitive exams like JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) and NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) can be a daunting task. Many students face challenges that can hinder their performance. Here’s a detailed overview of common mistakes to avoid during preparation for these exams, along with strategies to overcome them.

1. Inadequate Time Management

One of the most significant mistakes students make is poor time management. Many candidates struggle to allocate their study time effectively, often spending too much time on difficult topics while neglecting others.

Solution:

Create a Study Schedule: Develop a realistic timetable that covers all subjects and stick to it. Allocate specific time slots for theory, numericals, and revision.

Use Time Management Tools: Consider using apps or planners to track your study sessions and breaks. Regularly review your progress to ensure you are on track.

2. Ignoring the Basics

Students often rush through fundamental concepts, believing they can grasp them later. This oversight can lead to gaps in understanding that become problematic when tackling advanced topics.

Solution:

Strengthen Fundamentals: Spend adequate time on basic concepts in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Ensure you have a solid understanding before moving on to more complex material.

Regular Revision: Make it a habit to revisit basic concepts periodically to reinforce your understanding.

3. Overemphasis on Theory

While theoretical knowledge is important, many students neglect practical application and problem-solving skills. This imbalance can lead to difficulties during exams where application-based questions are prevalent.

Solution:

Practice Regularly: Incorporate problem-solving sessions into your study routine. Work on numerical problems and case studies related to theoretical concepts.

Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests that simulate exam conditions to improve both speed and accuracy.

4. Not Balancing Theory and Numericals

A common mistake is focusing solely on either theoretical knowledge or numerical problems, neglecting the other aspect. This can result in a lack of comprehensive understanding.

Solution:

Integrated Study Approach: Aim for a balanced study plan that includes both theory and numerical practice. For instance, after studying a theory chapter, immediately practice related numerical problems.

5. Skipping Mock Tests

Many students underestimate the importance of mock tests, which are crucial for assessing preparation levels and identifying weak areas.

Solution:

Regular Mock Testing: Schedule weekly or bi-weekly mock tests based on the actual exam format. Analyze your performance afterward to identify areas needing improvement.

6. Ignoring Previous Years’ Papers

Previous years’ question papers provide valuable insights into the exam pattern and frequently asked questions. Ignoring them can limit preparedness.

Solution:

Practice Past Papers: Regularly solve past years’ papers under timed conditions. This practice helps familiarize you with the exam format and improves time management skills.

7. Focusing on Too Many Resources

With an abundance of study materials available, students often make the mistake of spreading themselves too thin across multiple resources, leading to confusion.

Solution:

Select Quality Resources: Choose a few trusted textbooks and coaching materials that cover the syllabus comprehensively. Stick to those resources rather than jumping between multiple books.

8. Neglecting Health and Well-being

The pressure of preparing for competitive exams can lead students to neglect their physical and mental health, resulting in burnout.

Solution:

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Incorporate regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep into your routine. Consider mindfulness practices like meditation to manage stress effectively.

9. Not Clearing Doubts Promptly

Students often hesitate to ask questions or clarify doubts with teachers or peers, which can lead to misunderstandings that accumulate over time.

Solution:

Encourage Open Communication: Actively seek help whenever you encounter difficulties in understanding concepts. Utilize online forums or study groups for additional support.

10. Taking Too Much Stress During Exams

Exam day can be stressful, leading students to panic and make mistakes they wouldn’t normally make under less pressure.

Solution:

Develop Exam Strategies: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or visualization before the exam starts. During the test, manage your time wisely by attempting easier questions first.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common mistakes in JEE and NEET preparation requires awareness and proactive strategies. By managing time effectively, balancing theory with practice, maintaining health, and utilizing past papers wisely, students can enhance their chances of success in these competitive exams. With dedication and smart preparation techniques, aspirants can navigate their way toward achieving their academic goals successfully.