#breakthecycle

[introspectconnect]

Deja Vu Love: Why We Repeat Relationship Patterns and How to Change

Love, while enchanting, can often feel like running in circles. Have you ever found yourself drawn to the same kind of partner time and time again? With a sense of déjà vu as you repeatedly find yourself with eerily similar partners. Why is this?

Once upon a time, I can confess I had a "type." I was irresistibly drawn to people's pain. It wasn’t a drive to 'fix' them or some dark intrigue, but rather, seeing a mirror image of my own internal turmoil. I could see it in their eyes, it was evident in their smile, it peeked through in their laugh, and it was obvious we wore the same burdensome mask to hide our scars. I naively believed building a bond based on shared trauma would help us understood each-others better and that we would guide each other on a road to healing. Instead, our pain inflicted more wounds on each other, that reinforced our negative beliefs and justified our unhealthy behaviors.

At the time it made sense, though looking back the flaw in my logic seems clear: Like the blind leading the blind, how can those equally lost, lead one another to light? This personal revelation reflects a challenge many people face in relationships. Chasing after partners based on idealized fantasies rather than real-world truths. It's easy to say, "I have a type," confidently stating our preferences, but do we ever pause to ask why? Are we genuinely yearning for a compatible soul, or are we simply seeking the traits of a person who idealizes a fantasy?

We must find the courage to question our desires. Only then can we uncover whether we're pursuing shallow ideas, or true compatibility and genuine connection. Consider someone who's always wanted a stable, money-wise family because they didn't have that growing up. They might be drawn to a potential partner’s flashy lifestyle. But does a flashy exterior equate to genuine financial security? How can they spot traits of financial stability if they've never known what it looks like? This logic can be applied to many different scenarios.

The cure to break free from that same old love loop comes down to being brave enough to dig into our wants. Learn what the healthy version of our desires looks like, so we don’t get lured by cheap imitations of it. Failure to do this keeps us entangled in familiar, yet potentially toxic patterns. The path to healthy, sincere, and nurturing relationships begins when we discern the real needs beneath our desires.

If you’re stuck in a loop of similar romantic choices, remember acknowledging the pattern is the first step. Dive deep within, challenge your reasoning, and aim for authentic connections. Together, we can break the cycle of déjà vu love.

[animalsoutloud]

[sup3rqu33n]

in the tub i killed a spider.

it reminded me of tyler.

watched it struggle, watched it writhe;

just another sacrifice.

as he weeps about his pain,

he’ll keep stabbing til I’m drained;

like a predatory bleeder,

victim camouflages reaper.

poured shampoo, watched it drown,

spider struggled, flush it down;

it’s me in my innocence,

trapped in tyler’s cold pretense.

to tyler, i'm that spider there;

to spider, i'm its worst nightmare;

i'm a predator yet prey,

shifting roles like night to day.

think of tyler, not the spider,

one so cruel yet i'm no kinder;

drained my heart, he played for free

with my spider misery.

[girltalkcollectives]

The “Nice Girl” Trap: How We’re Taught to Prioritize Politeness Over Boundaries

Growing up, I don’t know how many times I was told to “be nice.” Whether it was sharing toys I didn’t want to share, letting others go first, or holding my tongue when I wanted to speak up. The message was clear: my job was to be polite, pleasant, and accommodating. At the time, it seemed normal. After all, being nice isn’t a bad thing, right? But somewhere along the way, “being nice” started to look a lot like putting myself last.

It sounds harmless enough, but think about how many of us, especially as girls, are taught to put others’ comfort over our own needs. That childhood lesson of being “nice” is more than just good manners — it’s a subtle push to downplay our own feelings and prioritize other people’s. And the real problem? When you grow up believing that being “nice” is your job, you start to feel uncomfortable saying no, setting boundaries, or doing anything that could make someone else unhappy.

Fast-forward a few years, and I’m the teenager who apologizes when a guy won’t stop texting me, even though I’m clearly not interested. I’m the friend who’s always available, even when I’m exhausted, because I don’t want to disappoint anyone. I’m the person who will bend over backward for others and feel guilty if I don’t. And I know I’m not alone. The “nice girl” mindset has taught so many of us that it’s better to be uncomfortable than to make anyone else feel that way.

For the longest time, I didn’t realize what was happening. I thought I was just being “a good person.” But here’s what no one tells you about the “nice girl” mentality: it teaches you that your comfort, your boundaries, and your needs don’t matter as much as making other people feel comfortable. It’s a message that says, “If someone wants something from you, it’s mean to say no.” And if you grow up with that idea long enough, you start to feel guilty anytime you do stand up for yourself.

It’s not that being nice is a bad thing. The world could always use more kindness, and there’s a lot of good that comes from being considerate. But when “nice” means sacrificing your own comfort and needs, it becomes a problem. Because here’s the reality: boundaries aren’t rude. They’re necessary. And as much as we’re taught to care about others, no one really teaches us that it’s okay to care about ourselves, too.

I didn’t fully understand this until I found myself feeling completely drained by the people around me. I was constantly saying yes to things I didn’t want to do, going out of my way for people who wouldn’t do the same for me, and feeling guilty every time I even thought about setting a boundary. I’d been trained to be the “nice girl” my whole life, but at some point, I realized that being nice to everyone else meant being unkind to myself.

And here’s the thing: when you’re a “nice girl,” people notice. They know you’re the one who won’t say no, who won’t rock the boat. The people who truly care about you will probably try not to take advantage of that, but others won’t hesitate to do so. I realized that being nice isn’t always the same as being good, and it doesn’t have to mean sacrificing my own boundaries to keep everyone else happy.

So I started setting small boundaries. I’d say no to plans if I was feeling exhausted, not just when I had a “valid” reason. I stopped apologizing for not being available all the time. And yeah, some people didn’t like it. I’d get the occasional “You’ve changed” or “You’re not as nice as you used to be.” And I had to be okay with that. I had to learn that being kind to myself sometimes meant disappointing others, and that was okay.

Learning to say no is hard when you’ve spent your whole life feeling responsible for everyone else’s feelings. But slowly, I started to realize that it’s not my job to make everyone happy. My job is to take care of myself, to set the boundaries I need, and to be true to my own comfort and well-being.

Maybe, instead of teaching girls to “be nice,” we should teach them to be authentic. To trust their own instincts, to say no when they need to, and to stand up for themselves without feeling guilty. Because real kindness should always include kindness to ourselves, too.

The “nice girl” trap is something I’m still unlearning, one boundary at a time. But I think it’s a lesson worth sharing: that it’s okay to put yourself first sometimes, that “nice” doesn’t mean saying yes to everything, and that no one has the right to make you feel bad for setting boundaries.

[in-tenebris-et-in-solitudine]

[skill-guru]

Transforming Lives: The Skill Guru Foundation Journey To Empower Youth

In a world where the divide between privilege and poverty continues to widen, the importance of education and skill development cannot be overstated. The Skill Guru Foundation stands at the forefront of this battle, bridging the gap between opportunity and underprivileged communities. With a heart full of compassion and a mission grounded in action, The Skill Guru Foundation is committed to transforming lives through education and skill development.

The Genesis of The Skill Guru Foundation

The Skill Guru Foundation was born out of a deep-seated belief that every child, regardless of their socio-economic background, deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. Our journey began with a simple yet powerful vision: to create an online platform where corporate employees, retired individuals, and skilled volunteers could connect with underprivileged children and provide them with the guidance and mentorship they need to thrive.

This vision has grown into a thriving community of mentors and students, each committed to the shared goal of education for all. Through our programs, we have seen firsthand the transformative power of knowledge and skills in breaking the cycle of poverty.

Empowering Through Education

At the heart of our mission is the belief that education is the most powerful tool for empowerment. The Skill Guru Foundation provides a unique platform where skilled professionals can share their knowledge with those who need it most. Whether it’s through one-on-one calls, messaging, or virtual classrooms, our volunteers are making a real difference in the lives of the children they mentor.

Our programs focus on a wide range of skills, from basic literacy and numeracy to more advanced subjects like digital marketing, video editing, and software testing. We believe in equipping our students with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world. By providing them with relevant skills, we are not just preparing them for the future; we are helping them build it.

A Holistic Approach to Skill Development

The Skill Guru Foundation is more than just an educational platform. We take a holistic approach to skill development, recognizing that true empowerment comes from nurturing the whole person. Our programs are designed to build confidence, foster creativity, and encourage critical thinking.

We understand that every child is unique, and so are their needs. That’s why our mentoring approach is tailored to each student, ensuring that they receive the support they need to overcome their individual challenges. Whether it’s helping a child develop a passion for learning or providing them with the skills to secure a better future, our mentors are dedicated to making a lasting impact.

The Role of Corporate Partnerships

Our mission would not be possible without the support of our corporate partners. Companies and their employees play a crucial role in our programs, offering not only financial support but also the time and expertise of their staff. These partnerships allow us to expand our reach and impact, ensuring that more children can benefit from our programs.

Corporate employees who volunteer with The Skill Guru Foundation find it to be a rewarding experience that enriches both their personal and professional lives. By sharing their knowledge and skills, they are giving back to the community in a meaningful way and helping to create a brighter future for the next generation.

Success Stories: The Impact of The Skill Guru Foundation

The true measure of our success lies in the stories of the children we serve. Each one represents a life changed, a future made brighter by the opportunities we provide. From the young girl who, through our digital marketing program, discovered a passion for technology, to the boy who, with the help of our mentors, gained the confidence to pursue higher education—these are the stories that inspire us to continue our work.

One of our most heartwarming success stories is that of a young boy named Ravi. Ravi came from a family where education was not a priority, and he struggled to keep up in school. Through our program, Ravi was paired with a mentor who recognized his potential and provided him with the support he needed. Today, Ravi is excelling in his studies and dreams of becoming a software engineer. His story is a testament to the power of mentorship and the difference that one person can make in a child’s life.

Looking Ahead: The Future of The Skill Guru Foundation

As we look to the future, The Skill Guru Foundation remains committed to our mission of empowering underprivileged children through education and skill development. We are continually expanding our programs, reaching more children and offering new opportunities for growth and learning.

Our vision for the future is a world where every child has the chance to succeed, regardless of their background. We believe that through education and mentorship, we can make this vision a reality. But we cannot do it alone. We need the continued support of our volunteers, corporate partners, and donors to help us reach our goals.

How You Can Get Involved

There are many ways to get involved with The Skill Guru Foundation. Whether you’re a skilled professional looking to give back, a company interested in partnering with us, or someone who simply wants to make a difference, there is a place for you in our community.

Volunteering your time, donating funds, or spreading the word about our work are all powerful ways to contribute to our mission. By getting involved, you are helping to create a brighter future for children who need it most.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The work of The Skill Guru Foundation is not just about education; it’s about transformation. We are changing lives, one child at a time, by providing the tools and support they need to build a better future. But we cannot do it alone. We need your help to continue our mission and expand our reach.

Join us in our journey to empower the next generation. Together, we can make a lasting impact and create a world where every child has the opportunity to succeed.

[tmarshconnors]

Who Else is Sick of the Puppet Show?

In today's world, it seems like every turn we take, we’re greeted by the grand theatre of politics. It's a show filled with dramatic entrances, scandalous plots, and character arcs that could rival any soap opera. But as captivating as it might seem from a distance, the reality is much more disheartening. Politics has become nothing more than a sick game, and many of us are fed up with the puppet show.

The Illusion of Choice

One of the most frustrating aspects of modern politics is the illusion of choice. We're often presented with two or more candidates who, on the surface, appear to have different agendas and solutions. However, scratch beneath the surface, and you'll find that many of these politicians are backed by the same corporate interests and influenced by similar lobbying groups. It's a rigged game where the players might change, but the puppeteers remain the same.

The Cycle of Scandal and Distraction

Political scandals are now so frequent that they barely make headlines. What should be shocking and unacceptable behaviour has become the norm. Politicians from all sides are involved in corruption, deceit, and hypocrisy. Instead of addressing these issues, the media and political strategists often use them as distractions, keeping the public focused on the sensational rather than the substantial.

Empty Promises and Hollow Victories

Every election cycle, we are bombarded with grand promises of change, prosperity, and progress. But once the elections are over and the dust has settled, these promises often fade into obscurity. Politicians prioritise maintaining their power and catering to their financial backers over delivering on their commitments to the electorate. The cycle continues, leaving the public disillusioned and distrustful.

Polarization and Division

Another sickening aspect of the political game is the deliberate polarisation and division of society. Politicians and their allies use divisive rhetoric to pit one group against another, creating an environment of hostility and mistrust. This strategy ensures that the public remains divided and distracted, making it easier for those in power to push their agendas without facing unified opposition.

The Puppeteers Behind the Curtain

At the heart of this political theatre are the real puppeteers – the wealthy elites and powerful corporations who pull the strings. These entities have the resources to influence policies, manipulate markets, and shape public opinion to serve their interests. While the public is entertained by the puppet show on stage, these shadowy figures continue to amass wealth and power, often at the expense of the common good.

So, what can be done to break free from this sick game? It starts with awareness and education. The public must be informed about the true nature of the political system and the forces at play. From there, it’s about demanding transparency, accountability, and genuine representation. Grassroots movements, community organising, and active participation in the political process can help reclaim power for the people.

We must also seek to bridge the divisions that have been deliberately sown among us. By finding common ground and working together, we can challenge the status quo and push for meaningful change. It’s time to move beyond the puppet show and create a political system that truly serves the people, not the powerful few.

The current state of politics is indeed a sick game, one that many of us are tired of watching. The puppet show has gone on for far too long, and it’s time for a change. By recognising the illusion, rejecting divisive tactics, and demanding accountability, we can start to dismantle the puppet theatre and build a political system that is just, transparent, and truly representative of the people’s will. Who else is sick of the puppet show? It’s time to rise up, reclaim our power, and create the change we desperately need. 

Remember THE REVOLUTION WILL NOT BE TELEVISED!

[storytellerslense]

I've updated the video because I wasn't really happy with the old version. It's still far from perfect but I hope you like it.

[stellawembley]

Express yourself, Embrace Your Divine Feminine! 🌸✨ You are always beautiful. Remember your worth every single day! I want to talk to all the incredible women out there. I know how it feels to hesitate when sharing photos that show more skin on social media. It's not about confidence—it's about the conditioning we've faced from society. Women, in particular, have been targeted and their divine feminine energy suppressed for far too long due to fear of judgment. Coming from a traditional Catholic family, I was often told that even wearing makeup was inappropriate. For generations, the women in my family have faced suppression in a male-dominated society. But I am breaking that cycle now! 💪💖 Whether you identify as a man, a woman, or something else entirely, don’t be afraid to express yourself! By the way, I have more sexy photos that I decided to not share on the socials. If you’re curious to see them, they'll be available for download on my website soon! You can even place your order now! #DivineFeminine #SelfExpression #BreakTheCycle #Empowerment #BeautyInEveryForm #Confidence #WomenSupportingWomen 🦋 @stella.wembley

[amelia00000]

Domestic Violence Suspect Gets Arrested!

The arrest underscored the crucial role of law enforcement in addressing domestic violence. Officers received specialized training to handle such cases with sensitivity and diligence. Collaborations with social services and mental health professionals strengthened the response to ensure comprehensive care for both victims and perpetrators. Read more...

#Domestic Violence Suspect

[purrplegalaxy-writes]

i want to document a few things of my recent days, (1/2/24-1/7/24) to not forget i can have days like this, that i can live like this... surrounded by love from the people i love and genuinely care about me, having peaceful days, eating well, having fun, vibing high, surrounded by nature, trees, animals, abundant color green, meditating, grounding and anchoring what is it that i want and the path of least resistance in front of me...

i'll be (i'd love to be) as transparent here as the w33d allows me, if i could summarize my -shortest- manifestation for 2024, my affirmation, the sentence i chose was "extended periods of pleasure"

and to be honest, i chose that one because i felt so down for so long or so often, that in this new timeline what i want is to extend the periods of pleasure, those moments i'm enjoying myself, what im doing/eating/watching/f... that if im going to be low, i dont even notice it (?)

because this year i don't want to be strong, i want to be happy, as happy as possible, for as long as possible, i want to change the balance from feeling down very often to feeling lifted up more often, this is my design. 

starting with giving little moments of pleasure as in when im writing,(11:11 rn)

[nicckhazzel]

Breaking the Silence: Combating Violence Against Women

In the shadows, beneath the surface, and across every boundary, violence against women looms as an insidious threat. It knows no age, race, or social divide. It's time we illuminate this dark truth, confront it head-on, and free women from its grasp.

Startling statistics lay bare the grim reality: violence against women is a global epidemic, striking at the heart of countless communities. Every day, women endure the torment of abuse. It's an urgent issue we can no longer ignore.

Types of Violence "The Harrowing Reality"

Physical Violence: This includes any form of bodily harm, such as hitting, slapping, or pushing, that women may endure. It leaves visible scars and invisible wounds.

Psychological Violence: Psychological violence messes with the mind. It involves threats, intimidation, and controlling behaviors that leave women in fear, anxiety, and emotional distress.

Sexual Violence: It's about non-consensual sexual acts. Women experience sexual violence when they are forced into sexual situations against their will, which is a profound violation.

Economic Violence: Economic violence involves controlling or limiting a woman's access to money and resources, making it hard for her to escape an abusive situation or gain independence. It's a subtle but potent weapon in the hands of abusers.

Causes and Consequences "Unveiling the Pain Behind the Shadows"

Gender-based violence has its origins in a complex web of factors, these include issues like alcohol, financial struggles, limited education, mental health problems, and more.

Alcohol, for instance, can sometimes fuel violent behavior. Financial difficulties can create tension, while a lack of education about healthy relationships and respect can lead to violence. Mental health issues can also play a part, making it crucial to address them.

The effects of gender-based violence ripple through women's lives and society as a whole. Women may endure physical harm, but there are far-reaching psychological consequences too. For society, there are scars that run deeper than the eye can see. But perhaps the most heart-wrenching impact is on the children, who often suffer the most. They witness violence, which can leave them traumatized and anxious. Some even consider taking their own lives. The scars left by this violence, both seen and unseen, cast a long shadow over families and communities, especially on the children who are meant to be protected.

"Will we continue perpetuating this chain of pain and despair? It's time to break the silence and stand against violence towards women. Let's create a world where every woman can live free from fear and harm."

LAW THREE HUNDRED FORTY-EIGHT IN BOLIVIA

[madamefist]

Hey.. Still here, sorry for radio silence for awhile. Managed to write the next chapter for Break The Cycle. Also will update Prophecy this week. Thanks for your patience 🖤

Chapters - 13/? Fandom - The Powerpuff Girls Characters - Blossom, Bubbles, Buttercup, Brick, Butch, Boomer Tags - Slightly AU, aged up characters, future fic, married life, adulthood, parenthood, drama, romance Sequel to Poison & Wine - best to be familiar with this story for clarity Summary - Blossom has some demons to face, Bubbles has some demons to beat, and Buttercup has three demons to raise, thanks to Butch. PPG & RRB in their mid 30's trying to navigate adult life, marriage and parenthood - slightly AU but not really.

‘Chapter 13: Looking your best’ snippet:

Everything felt as though it was in slow motion around her. She could see Tess’ mouth moving but she couldn’t hear a single thing. Just an eerie silence, the only thing she could hear was her heart, beating rapidly. Like a pulsing bass drum in her ear. 

Patient’s name: John Utonium. Patient’s name: John Utonium. Her eyes darted from Tess’ face to the sheet of paper in her hand but no matter how many times she looked at it, it didn’t change. 

Her father was the suspected subarachnoid hemorrhage. Her father was the ‘Code blue’. Her father was in cardiac arrest. His heart had stopped beating. He was suspected to have bleeding on his brain.

Tess gripped at Blossom’s arm, her voice raising. “Blossom! Sweetie, I need you to leave the floor. We need to move - we need you out of here, please.” Her voice was stern; her expression soft.

The physical touch brought the pink puff back to earth. “I’m not going anywhere.” She told her firmly.

“Blossom, no - that’s not a good id-” Tess was cut off by the doors to their ward flying open. The Professor was wheeled in on a gurney, surrounded by a flurry of EMT’s. 

...

You can read Break The Cycle here and here 🖤

[weepingflower17]

We tend to weeds and expect flowers to grow.

[xbuddykinsx]

Taking a Stand

🤝 Join me in empowering communities and tackling MLM exploitation! 🚫💼 Discover a ground-breaking article by @xxbuddykinsxx that sheds light on the dark side of multi-level marketing schemes and offers solutions for a better future. Let's dive into the thread below 👇

[mythreefold]

The Over IT Over Haul...My Decision to Make 2023 For Me!

There is a song that plays incessantly on the radio. You’ve heard it either via TikTok, your own indulgence in pop music or because your children also control your play list when in the car. If not, then consider an upbeat tune that has a happy and fast pace beat. Once you’ve got that down, listen to the words. “Do you ever get a little bit tired of life? Like you’re not really happy but you…