#going to start saying this. adding it to my daily dictionary as we speak

[lilli-on-aire]

Matthew McConaughey's 13 Life Lessons

1. Life is not easy

“Do not fall into the entitlement trap of feeling like a victim,” said McConaughey. “You are not. Get over it and get on with it. Yes, most things are more rewarding when you break a sweat to get them.”

2. “Unbelievable” is the stupidest word in the dictionary

The actor stated that the word “unbelievable” should never come out of anybody’s mouth, and people should give each other more credit when it’s due. He also added it’s not “unbelievable” when people perform out-of-character actions, such as missing a deadline. “If there’s one thing you can depend on people being, it’s people,” said McConaughey. “I think ‘unbelievable’ is an unbelievably stupid word.”

3. Happiness is different than joy 

The actor noted that once he started acting in films that brought him joy rather than happiness, he started receiving more success. “As soon as the work, the daily making of the movie, the doing of the deed, became the reward in itself for me,” he said, “I got more box office, more accolades, more respect than I ever had before.

4. Define success for yourself 

McConaughey says he defines himself by five things: fatherhood, being a good husband, health, career and friendships. “I want to keep all five in healthy shape,” he said. “If I don’t keep maintenance on them, one of them is going to get weak.

5. Process of elimination is the first step to our identity

“Alright, alright alright,” said McConaughey as he recalled the three lines he was first hired to say on Dazed and Confused. The actor noted that while starting with those three lines turned into a larger role for his character in the film, there were two scenes that his character, Bill Wooderson, shouldn’t have been in. “Back then, making my first film, I wanted more screen time. I wanted to be in the scene longer, but I shouldn’t have been there. Wooderson shouldn’t have been there,” said McConaughey.

6. “Don’t leave crumbs” — and the beauty of delayed gratification

“If I do my job well today and that movie keeps re-running on TV, five years from now I’m getting checks in the mailbox,” he said. “It’s a heck of a deal. Get some return on investment.”

7. Dissect your successes (and the reciprocity of gratitude)

The actor noted that he’s spent a lot of time reading the bad reviews of his films that are written by respected critics. “I don’t obsess on the unfavorable aspect of their review, but I do seek what I can learn from it. Their displeasure actually uncovers and makes more apparent what I do do well.”

8. Make voluntary obligations

The actor insists on making personal protocols with yourself that may not apply to everyone else. “While no one throws you a party while you abide by them, nobody is going to arrest you when you break them, either.”

9. From “can” to “want”

The actor emphasized that having access to different things doesn’t mean you necessarily need them. He recalled a lesson he learned when he received his first paycheck, in 1995, for being in Boys on the Side, and started living the good life with an adobe house complete with his first maid. After he told a friend that he had a maid that was pressing his jeans, he realized that he never really liked the look of ironed jeans in the first place. “I never had my jeans pressed again,” said McConaughey. 

10. A roof is a man-made thing

The actor noted that he, like everyone else, has choked up or felt tense due to expectations. “We have created a fictitious ceiling, a roof to our expectations of ourselves,” he said. “We shouldn’t create these restrictions on ourselves”

11. Turn the page

“If we’re going to make a mistake, we’ve got to own them, make amends and you’ve got to move on,” said McConaughey. 

12. Give your obstacles credit 

The actor admitted that he tries to scare himself at least once a day. “I get butterflies every time before I go to work,” he said. “I was nervous before I got here to speak tonight.”

13. How do we know when we cross the truth?

The actor noted that after rising to fame in 1996, following his star turn in A Time to Kill, he began questioning the truth in his celebrity. On a 21-day “fasting” trip to Peru, he noted it took him 13 “hellish” days to purge in order to feel relaxed. “I was sick of myself,” he said. “Wrestling with the loss of my anonymity, I was guilt-ridden for the sins of my past.” On the morning of his thirteenth day in Peru, he admitted he finally woke up at one with himself. This was confirmed when he went on a morning walk and was greeted by a mirage of butterflies. “For the first time, I stopped thinking about what was coming up next, and my anxieties were at a crazy ease,” he said. 

[wakanda-nonsense-is-this]

Ghost of You — Chapter 6

Masterpage <last next>

Pietro Maximoff x fem!Mutant!reader

Warnings: ANGST, a lot of crying, sad Pietro and Y/n, mentions of death and injuries.

Word Count: 1217

If you want to be added to the taglist, let me know :)

He was looking at me as if trying to bottle this moment, the way his hand cupped my head, the way his breath collided with mine, the way his arm felt around me, my warm. I opened my mouth but found myself unable to form coherent words, but words weren't necessary, because what he was feeling, I was feeling it too. I stared at him and he stared at me and everything around us disappeared.

"Frumoasa." He breathed and my heart skipped like 5 beats. Did I understand what he said? Not at all. Was his accent hot? Absolutely.

But as everything good, it had to come to an end and it did, when Wanda ran to me and with Sam's help helped me stand up. They all looked at me in worry, but all I could do was stare at spot on the floor where less than a second ago Pietro and I were. He was still there looking at me and then at his hands stunned. His eyes contained so many emotions that for the first time I didn't know what they meant.

Somebody shaking me brought me back, I looked at Wanda and realized she was crying.

"Are u okay?" She cried while patting me to make sure I was fine. I took her hands and stopped her.

"It's okay, I'm fine." I soothed her while she cried even more and hugged the shock out of me. At the same time Sam and Scott looked at me with worried eyes to which I answered with "I'm fine, really." They didn't seam to 100% believe me but at least seemed more at ease than Wanda that was still crying in my arms.

***

After 15 minutes of reassuring them that I was fine and promising that if I felt sick or something I would go to the hospital wing, they finally let me go. When i was out of their view's reach, I ran to my room and locked the door. Inside was Pietro siting on my bed. We observed each other and said nothing.

"F.R.I.D.A.Y?"

"Yes, Ms. Y/n?"

"Soundproof this room." I answered, my eyes never leaving his. I heard a noise and knew the room was safe to speak, but I didn't nor did he. There was so much to say but I didn't know where to start. I had so many questions, but I didn't know if I wanted to hear the answers, if I was ready to. It seemed Pietro was having the same dilemma.

"What just happened?" He asked unsure.

"You touched me, I felt you." Everything was happening too fast, my legs were shaking so much I couldn't hold myself up so I slid to the floor. He tried to get near me, but as if remembering that we hadn't talk in two weeks he backed off.

"When I saw what was going to happen, I just couldn't sit there and watch you d... I knew I wouldn't be able to do something but I had to try, I had to do something. If something had happened to you, I- I can't do this without you, none of this, being alive or dead, it doesn't matter, at that moment all I knew was that if something happened to you everything would've lost it's meaning, because damn it, Y/n, you're everything that matters to me." He looked disturbed, as if the mere thought of me dying brought him nightmares. I didn't know what to say, he used to tell me that on a daily basis I spoke more words than the dictionary, but this time I was speechless, I couldn't understand what had just happened. I opened my mouth, but then closed it, I wasn't the one who lied, so if anyone deserved an explanation it was me. I guess he saw the change on my demeanor because he sighed and looked down at his hands.

"When we first met I had just died. It had only been a few months since Sokovia and I hated it, my whole life, my sister was the only thing I had, the only person who accepted me for who I truly was, until I met you. At first, I didn't care about you, all I wanted was for you to contact my sister and do some guru magic powerful enough to bring me back or something, when I realized that was not possible I thought of befriending you so you could pass a message to her and- and that's what I did." Pietro stopped and when he opened his eyes they were glossy, unlike mine which were releasing tears as if they were trying to recreate the flood. Every word he said was like a stab to the heart. Every word confirmed my biggest fear, but every word sounded wrong, because I knew it wasn't true, or at least not anymore, maybe it was like that someday, but it wasn't anymore. He cared, and he showed it, daily.

"But then something changed. I began to long to spend time with you, I started to hate anyone who had ever put a hand on you, I started hating seeing you cry and not being able to hold you. And I promised myself I would do anything in my power and beyond to make you happy and to keep you safe. And today, only thinking something could've happened to you, I had to stop it and I did, and I don't know what that means." At that point he was rambling. His thoughts were all over the room. I stopped him, unsure.

"What are you trying to say Pietro?" I inquired not wanting to get my hopes high. I could feel my heart beating extra fast than normal. He pinched the bridge of his nose and slowly exhaled.

"What I'm saying, Y/n, is, Wanda accepted me for who I was, yes, but you, you were the only one who chose to, she had no other choice, but you had, and you chose me. And I need you to know that I would chose you, too, today and for as long as you'll have me. I made a mistake and I realized I would rather die thousand more times because the mere thought of losing you, hunts more than any death could ever. I should've told you, but I was just scared you would hate me, so I figured if I never said anything then everything would be fine." His eyes were red and not even once had I ever seen a ghost cry and look so beautiful. I couldn't hate him, because hating him would be like denying a part of myself. And I don't think I could ever, even if I wanted to. I walked to him.

"I never meant to hurt you."

"I know, Pi, I know." I raised my hand and tried to wipe his tears, but once again, it passed trough him. As if just an hour ago I hadn't been wrapped in his arms and had inhaled his scent. "I'm going to fix this, Piet. I touched you, you were there, for a few seconds, you were on the world of the living and I promise, even if it is the last thing I do, I will bring you back."

Taglist:

@vicmc624

@austynparksandpizza

@im-gemmy

@in-my-body-bag

@theyaremorethanjustfictional

@padmoonyfeorge

[thewritershelpers]

Improving Your Writing when English Isn’t Your First Language (mega-ask)

As you can see above, we've gotten more than one question about writing, improving your writing, and even publishing in English when it's not your native language. First off: that's awesome. To anyone writing or even consuming in a language that's not your first, kudos to you.

You can google any variation of this question and get different articles with a ton of the same advice, and some with conflicting advice. Not only have I compiled the most commonly repeated information, but I've also reached out to people on our Discord server and others for their personal experiences.

I'll start off by listing concise versions of the advice and then expound on them further on in the article. Remember that we are not experts on your writing and that everyone learns in different ways and at different paces. These are in no particular order.

-be patient

-practice

-get feedback from native sources

-don't undermine yourself to your audience

-Grammarly

-research

-don't get discouraged

Be patient

That's first because, well, duh. Patience is so important for both yourself and your writing. Writing is hard enough of a passion without the added difficulty of doing it in a language that doesn't come naturally. In the world of literature, writing/publishing in your non-native language isn't just a matter of translating words. It requires translating of ideas, concepts, and even cultural norms, which is why just slapping it into Google translate won't work.

Part of the reason for the advice of having patience, too, is that writing in your native language needs to take time. It doesn't really matter how fast you can whip out 20 pages of a first draft--it'll still be a simple first draft. Writing is a craft that requires not just love and passion but time. So what if you need a little bit of extra time--or a lot of extra time--because you're accomplishing a feat most don't even think about attempting?

Next is to practice.

That goes hand in hand with what I said about being patient. Again, writing in and of itself is all about practice and doing it daily (not that I'm an expert on getting that done, but you know). But when it comes to practice another language, there are different ways you can do that. You can reach out to native speakers (for English, there are going to be so many people willing to help, even just in our community! you just need to ask) and practice having conversations or ask them to look over your work. Practice by turning on your favorite movie or TV show in English with subtitles in your native language. Watch videos on YouTube, find a Spotify playlist/podcast, in your target language. There's also plenty of people who have done what you're trying to do who have shared their experiences and what helped them on those same platforms.

Get feedback from native speakers

This is a bit of an expansion on what I mentioned in the previous paragraph. In my experience, and from what others have shared, writing in a non-native language can be pretty clinical. Writing with figurative language or in metaphors won't be as easy or come as naturally as it does in your own language. Things like idioms and even pop cultures reference aren't always going to translate even if you have the exact words. That's where native speakers come into play. If they're willing to look over your work, whether as a friend or in an editorial position, they can give you advice about whether the wording in one spot sounds clunky or if a phrase doesn't make sense or if there're synonyms for what you already used to help convey your message even stronger.

Don't undermine yourself

This is something that I personally am saying. It's not mentioned on any of the linked sites, and no one I talked to said it. But as someone who is a native English speaker (and even has a degree in it) I think this is super important. This point goes towards native English speakers/writers, too. Don't undersell yourself and undermine your work to the audience before they have even picked it up. Disclaimers are different, and it all comes down to the words you use and how you use them. Let your readers know, whether it's people on AO3 or a literary agent, that English isn't your first language. Let them know concisely that they may find some basic errors--but stop there. Don't grovel. You have nothing to apologize for, especially once you've given that warning (those is it really a warning? what's so dangerous or scary about a few mistakes?). You're writing is not going to be any less of an accomplishment for a few grammatical errors, or mistranslated phrases, or even typos. I've seen so many mistakes in published works that it's kind of ridiculous. But if you put something out there for someone to read and in the same breath say "I don't know that this is worth reading" I'm going to need extra convincing to pick it up. *kicks soapbox away*

Grammarly

*NOT sponsored*

Grammarly is a wonderful tool that you can use, for FREE. It not only (with the free version) helps correct spelling and grammar, but can also help point out the tone you're writing with. For example, right now, Grammarly is telling me that this writing sounds mostly informative--which it's meant to be--and a little appreciative and friendly. When sending emails I've had it tell me that it sounds formal (which I was going for), and I've also had it not say anything because the text was a different kind of writing (like when I'm proof-reading something being posting it on AO3...). I honestly don't know what else it helps with once you've paid because I've been happily using the free version for about 3 years now.

Research

Don't be afraid to pick up a book, or head to the library, or pull up Google. Research is paramount to writing anyway, let alone once you're doing it in another language. Your research options are limitless and can include your mutuals on social media as well as those dictionaries that translate from one language into another. Research can also include (in my humble opinion) binge-watching/reading your favorite things...in English. In four years of university, one of the most frequently said things was to improve your writing 1) write every day and 2) read every day. You're never going to learn from worrying or overthinking, and you're also never going to learn from just doing DuoLingo (that's more conversational than literary anyway).

Something a member of Discord specifically said in relation to research was to look at morphology, at the roots of words (and root words). Morphology is, in linguistics, looking at how words are formed. For example, let's look at "biology". There are parts to this word that each has a different meaning, that formed together created a new/elevated meaning. "ology" means the study of something, and bio means life. So biology is, simply, the study of life. Once you've got those basics of things like "ology" under your belt it'll become easier to not just translate words but the concepts (if this works with your learning style).

Last but not least, don't get discouraged.

Writers of all kinds get discouraged when writing in their native language. Even those of us who speak English as our first language make mistakes worth discouragement (you will never know how many typos were corrected by Grammarly as I wrote this all out the first time). English is not an easy language. It's not the hardest, but it's far from easy (learning another language isn't easy regardless of what languages are involved). This is a post from someone who is a non-native English speaker but you would never know unless they told us.

While researching for this, I found some articles/blog posts that said mostly the same thing, and are where I got some of the information

This one is from a native English speaker giving advice

This one is for writing for non-native English readers, but still has good advice

And finally this one is a blog post (I think) from someone who is a non-native English speaker!

In specific response to some of the asks:

English, like any other language, changes. It's a very dynamic language, actually, and from region to region, there will not only be different accents but different frames of reference. 1950 isn't so far back in time for the English to be drastically different from what is spoken today, but I'm in the USA and you're asking about Oxford. English in England has very different nuances, even more so than you would get between California and Texas and New York. This is a link to the Oxford English Dictionary list of words that became more common in the 50s. However, this is a generalized list, not specific to any English-speaking country let alone region or city. If you're wanting to look at how to convey the accent of people from/in Oxford, there are videos on YouTube of people speaking in different accents so that you can have an idea, a comparison, at least in your own mind. With the 50s it's going to be more just thinking really of what words and lifestyles and things weren't around yet; cell phones didn't exist yet. Here's another link to some stock images of Oxford in the 50s. Remember, this time was very close to WWII so there'll be lingering effects of that, especially in England.

About fight scenes and curses, there's a ton of resources on that. If you just search "fight" on our page, you'll get a ton of posts answering that question. Also, here's a link to a superb and excellent source on writing fight scenes. When it comes to curses...just watch Rage Quit on YouTube, or spend a while on TikTok. If you want to dive right in just Google "English curses" and there'll be YouTube videos, entries on Urban Dictionary, you name it.

When it comes to publishing, once you've gotten your manuscript is a perfect time to have a native-speaking friend look it over. Whether editing is their thing or not, they'll be able to help with the things that are really obvious. I don't have any experience publishing in a different language, though, so there might be other resources along the different stages to help you. Some general publishing advice I've gotten: when wanting to publish fiction, literature, start small. Start with short stories in literary journals, online and in print. You really can't make much headway with large publishing houses without a literary agent and it'll be easier to attract one if you have evidence that you can write, and write well enough people want to read it. When it comes to poetry, just start submitting. Get familiar with the process, and educate yourself on things like simultaneous submissions and a good rejection. Publishing is an ever-changing game that isn't cut and dry in any language or country. We can't tell you what's best, but my advice is to go with your gut and try your best. Don't be afraid to try again, too.

Everyone overthinks their writing. Or at least, everyone I know who writes does. Honestly, in my opinion, if you're not overthinking at least a little bit, you're not worried enough. You will never be able to fully know whether you've explained or described enough. A good chunk of the experience is up to the readers, so you have to leave them some wiggle room for imagination. But that doesn't mean you have to cheapen your story or short-change your characters. You mention specifically that you're POC, which I'm gonna guess also means that your characters will be POC. It's never too much to specify the race/ethnicity of your characters, even in a fantasy work. How you go about writing those descriptions might need to change but it's kind of like chocolate chips, in my mind: you decide those things with your soul.

So, there you have it. A ridiculously long way to say: you're awesome, you do you, practice, love yourself and your writing, and don't be afraid to put yourself out there (in any way).

(images read:

Anonymous said: Im writing a book based in Oxford in 1950s. how was the language different from now. I am not from an English speaking country at all. Never been outside my country either. And Im going to write a book based in England in English

Anonymous said: Hi there, I’m a writer for almost 3 years now but since English isn’t my first language I get discouraged easily if things I write come off strange to myself. Do you maybe have any advice for me, on how to motivate myself and not comparing myself with native English speakers? Thank you in advance!

Anonymous said: Hello! I starting to work on this shortfic but it’s been really hard. It’s like I’m trying to building a house alone and with my bare hands. Even though I’m already used to write in mother tongue. Any advice for non-english speaker trying to write their first story in English?

Yaelburstine said: Hi. Do you have any tips about how to write a good fight scene and curses that people speak English get cus’ it’s not my first language

gyger said: I am not a native english speaker, but most of the books I read are in english and I generally prefer writing in english as well. However, I am worried about making mistakes that I can’t recognize myself. I have no idea how good my english is to a native english speaker, plus some things are easier to write in my native tongue (such as dialogue). I’m also worried about publishing, since that definitely would be easier in my country than abroad. How do I decide what language to choose?

Anonymous said: As a POC writer and English as their second language, I overthink all the writing I do. I feel like I don’t describe my ideas thoroughly or my character descriptions are vague or not good enough. I’m currently working on a YA novel but I plan on writing a YA fantasy novel but I feel like my lack of vocabulary and grammar structure makes me give up on finishing my book. Is this normal for native English speaking authors or is this considered a language barrier thing? Thanks! Love your blog!

Thank you for your questions, and for your patience as we do our best to answer them.

-S

[godfirstgodalways]

1/2 I’ve been reading some articles and podcasts from Christians that I’ve admired for years about marriage and how God usually doesn’t say to us “yes, marry him” or “nope, not him” (like, how people say “I prayed and God told me and reaffirmed that you’re the one”) because he’s already said so much about it in the Bible. He tells exactly the kind of person to marry (one who loves Him, seeks wise counsel, etc.) and He gave us free will. There is not ONE man for every woman, we have a choice as

2/2 to who we love. We choose to stay, make it work, and love people. We choose to walk away and move on. Sometimes that choice is made for us by the other person, but it’s still a choice. So my question is, if feelings come and go from God, does He intervene in dating relationships? Like, if I choose a great Christian man, can/does/why does God say, “for XYZ, I’m taking these feelings”?

——————————————————————————————————–

I’m sorry for my late reply. I completely agree that God doesn’t say “Yes, marry him/her” or “No, don’t marry him/her”. He doesn’t speak to us with an audible voice. He speaks to us through reading and hearing the Word because that’s just how we build our faith, and also God works in mysterious ways. Just like He doesn’t say “Yes, this is the job you should have/no, you should not have this job.” I believe the decisions people in general make in life are based on how self-confident they feel about them. But if we narrow it down even more, we will only find very few people who seek the Lord’s guidance in almost every aspect of life. So from a Christian perspective, it comes down to how confident a Christian is in their faith and that’s what determines how their convictions play out. But no matter where a person is in their spiritual walk, if they have even a slight conviction on any matter, that is what is true to them. If a  Christian says such and such is what God told me, then that is their conviction. It’s hard to talk someone out of their conviction. However our future unfolds because of a certain decision we made, God is still loving, graceful, and merciful to give us free-will, Christian or not. What will we do with that free-will? Will we keep honoring God with our thoughts, words, and actions? Because my conviction is if I do the best I can, no matter how imperfect my efforts are, so long as I strive (get back up/not give up), then the LORD will continue to convict me because I choose to seek Him.

Let’s say a young Christian woman has been in love with Jesus all her life but she just hasn’t met anyone worth dating, even. But one day she meets someone through a good friend who happens to be a Christian. So that someone is Christian but he’s a new Christian and still needs a lot of work. They start dating because it’s clear they are attracted to each other and they have a lot in common. God will absolutely intervene even if they kissed on the first date because they’re moving too fast. And He will absolutely intervene if they commit sexual sin. But His intervention will most likely be more revealed to the more mature Christian than the new Christian. In the Meriam-Webster dictionary, it says that ‘intervene’ means to become involved in something (such as a conflict) in order to have an influence on what happens. So, yes, the LORD intervenes. But who is convicted and who is not? What was the conviction? The influence God will have on a person depends on their conviction and their conviction depends on the health of their relationship with God. The person/people in the situation must allow God’s involvement in it in order for there to be an influence on them. If no one is convicted that anything is wrong then God’s intervention means nothing to them because to them it doesn’t exist. Now, it’s up to the woman’s decision to go on with this relationship or not after she has been convicted that what they did was wrong. Let’s say, she wasn’t however convicted that she should break up with this guy. Whatever her decision is, it will always lead to more free-will. She can right her wrong and possibly keep seeing the guy, especially if he also decides to right his wrong. If they pray on it and refocus on Him, then He might even bless their relationship. Whatever happens after that, no matter what, God intervenes. He intervenes in all relationships, no matter how perfect some may appear to us. 

It’s all according to the person’s faith if they are aware of God’s interventions or not, and what they do about it. We have no business in knowing the future, because He wants us to be humble and trust in His guidance. As long as a person is repenting of their sins and truly are living for God, then He will show His favor to His children. NO ONE SHOULD PUT SO MUCH FOCUS ON HOW GOD WILL BE WORKING IN THEIR RELATIONSHIP(S) OR HOW THEY WILL BE JOINED WITH THEIR FUTURE HUSBAND/WIFE. IT’S AN INDICATION OF DISTRUST IN THE LORD’S PERFECT PLAN FOR US. ALWAYS TRUST IN HIS GUIDANCE THAT IT IS GOOD. PERIOD.

If a single person seeks to honor God the rest of their life and they are diligent, and faithful that He will guide them to their future spouse, even if breakups happen, if their faith withstands that God will provide, then surely God will provide a spouse for that person. HE WILL ABSOLUTELY INTERVENE IF HIS WILL IS NOT THE FOCUS. For the single individual searching for their future spouse, I would say that they should stop analyzing exactly how God might change their circumstances or orchestrate their future, and just focus on their relationship with Christ. Our focus and daily relationship with Jesus matters so much because the more time we spend with Him, the more our qualities/characteristics will attract the right people, responses, and situations into our lives, and because it should help us trust the Holy Spirit’s guidance more and be aware of how blessed we are with our free-will. We must honor the LORD with our free-will. We must meditate on His promises for us. We must remain humble about who we are and who we like/love. For unmarried couples, no matter how much a person is convicted that he’s the one, or she’s the one, even though it sounds very positive, God still wants us to take captive of those thoughts and offer them to Him because don’t forget, He intervenes for our own good.

I hope my explanation makes a lot of sense. I took a while contemplating whether I should make a video or not about it, but that took a lot of time lol. I honestly had to dig deep and pray to find the right words. Thank you for this anyway, it was a great question! God bless you! :)

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Mark 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Romans 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

Proverbs 14:55 The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.

Proverbs 6:13 Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established.

Proverbs 16:20 Whoever gives thought to the word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.

James 4:17 If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.

Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.

By His Grace, Sheela (Via godfirstgodalways)

[jupiterparker]

Thingamajig (p.p)

Words count: 754

Paring: Peter Parker x ForeignExchange!Reader 

Warnings: none

A/N: Apparently thingamajig is a word, enjoy :)

Request: yes or no

Masterlist

_____________________________

You still remembered the first glimpse of New York you got. You thought you were prepared, as you had seen photos, and told yourself like it was just like a major city in the world. Oh boy, were you wrong. The feeling of New York was not like anything you were ready for.

Your school had decided to take part of a international student exchange. You were able to choose the country, and you chose the U.S. sole based on the fact the Avengers were there. Unfortunately you couldn’t choose the city, so while you were waiting for the name of your new high school, you spent that time convincing yourself that at least you were in the U.S. and that it was enough for you. Unfortunately that didn’t work, but in the end it didn’t matter because you got assigned to a high school in New York of all places.

So here you were now, in New York a couple of weeks later for your first day of school. Already you knew you would like it here, apparently this school was very science and tech focused, and most schools weren’t, which was actually perfect for you because you wanted to go to into  physics. Your classes were interesting to say the least, instead of teachers moving from class to class, the students were the ones moving. It was also really nice that no one had to wear a uniform. The classes themselves were interesting, even if it was a little awkward because you didn’t talk to anyone.

But the lunch came, and you were panicking a little. You had gone through the lunch line and survived on how to pay based on watching other people and how they did it. Once that was completed, you looked around, not knowing where to sit as every table seemed to be completely full and everyone was talking ti everyone. Every table, but one it seemed. There was one table where there were only two boys, and you recognized one of them from one of your classes earlier. 

“Hello, can I sit here?” You asked, trying to speak as well as you could, you relaxed and sat down, once they both nodded, glad that you finally had a place to sit. “Y/N right?” One of the boys said, you vaguely remembering him saying he was Ned during attendance. Nodding you asked “It’s Ned right?”, “Yup, and this is Peter” he said, gesturing to the boy next to him who waved at you. 

“So how do you like Midtown High?” Peter asked, curious about your thoughts. “Its really nice! You guys have a lot of technology, which is really cool considering the fact its seems to be the latest models!” You said, really recited about that. The fact that technology was used so much in the classroom, was an interesting way to learn, and class went really smoothly except when the technology messed up. You wrinkled your nose at that thought, remembering what happened just last period. Ned and Peter noticed that, asking you whats wrong. “Oh nothing its just that last period, the… shit whats it called messed up” you got frustrated, not remembering the. English word for mouse.

“There’s is a thing called ‘shit whats it called’” asked Ned, directing the question to Peter, as he was completed confused. “I don’t think thats the case Ned” Peter explained, looking at you for confirmation, “I know what it is, I just don’t know the English word for it. The thing that broke was the thingamajig attached to the computer” you said, getting annoyed and trying to make hand gestures that looked like the computer mouse. Ned and Peter looked at each other, trying to figure it out, and got startled when you shouted “Ooh! I know its called at rat…?” You trailed off, realizing that it didn't sound right. 

“A mouse you mean?” Asked Peter and Ned, their faces a lot less confused now. “I think so, yeah” you said, getting embraced that you didn’t remember some words on your first day already. You buried your head in your hands mumbling “I don’t know how I’m going to survive an entire year in America”. When you felt a hand on your shoulder, you looked up to see Peter comforting you, “Don’t worry Y/N, will we be your walking dictionary”. At that, at three of you started laughing, imagining Peter and Ned dressed up as dictionaries. Maybe you could survive the entire year.

Permanent Taglist: @djjffkd, @pallored, @your-daily-dose-of-fangirl, @penisprkr

Peter Parker Taglist: @what-is-yeet, @lubrielx

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[brianjpatterson]

SPOTLIGHT: “ON AN ARTIST’S BUDGET” - Ep 1 Groceries/Eating

If you’re just joining Spotlight, then I’d like to welcome you to my personal journal of my personal journey as a performer. It’s a kind of way for me to look back on all of my experiences, and lessons I’ve learned, while simultaneously sharing what I’ve learned with you. Disclaimer: The word PERSONAL was utilized twice in the first sentence. Therefore, this is not the gospel or the truth, it’s just me sharing MY experiences in an effort to assist, if possible, in other people’s discovery toward climbing the ladder toward their own version of artistic success (end disclaimer). Today, I’m going to continue my detour past part (Part 5) of my observation of the Industry’s Corporate Structure (AGAIN), to touch briefly upon a concept that I live by in “Brian’s B’s” (Being, Behavior, and Business), of my A+B=C method. It is the concept and idea of how to make things practically tangible for others. When you make something tangible for someone, it becomes easily accessible to them. And if you can make it easily accessible in a brief way…even better! SIDE NOTE: If you are reading this blog for the first time, here’s a brief over view of my A+B=C method. A stands for the Abstract; It’s your dream and what you desire. C is the Completion or end result to the equation. It’s that Concrete product you have Concocted. However, B is the thing that doesn’t get much attention, and it is the most vital portion of the equation; It is your Being, your Behavior, and your Business. I call these things “Brian’s Bs”. They are all the things that YOU actually DO to mix with the A and make the C happen! And that is the basic overview of my system. Today, I’m going to focus briefly on Behavior. Webster’s Dictionary defines ‘behavior’ as “the manner of conducting oneself” or “the way in which something functions or operates”. For me, these are things you do in habit to conduct yourself. If we think of a conductor as a leader, you must lead or support yourself the way that a conductor does, and a conductor does so in an objective and supportive manner for the betterment of the whole. This is the way that I perceive behavior. Therefore, each of the behaviors that you will read about in my blog (and coming book) will be a habitualized ‘best practice’ to conduct ones self in an objective and supportive manner for the betterment of the whole. One of those ways, about which I’ll be speaking today, is health.

People ask me all the time how I stay looking so young, keep so active/youthful, and maintain an overall positive mental attitude. Especially since they know that for the past decade I’ve made 90% of my living from being an artist. The answer falls right into the application of my A+B=C method of all things in life. For me, it’s just basic common sense My body is my Stradivarius. It is the refined, delicate, and expensive instrument through which I can create. Therefore: A) What I put in my body PLUS B) what I do, EQUALS C) the results. So if I’m consuming good things AND utilizing it well by getting proper rest/rejuvenation/exercise, then I’m sure to produce some great results. Wonder Woman’s early adventures often mentioned many times how important it was to eat healthy and treat your body with respect. Since most bodybuilders say that 70% of our workout is done in the kitchen, I’ve decided to focus on exactly that, by sharing with you my way of eating healthy on an artist’s budget. Why do I say ’On An Artists’ Budget’? Well, as artists we are essentially independent contractors. We don’t have steady work, and generally don’t know when our next job is, or when we will ever work again. It’s often been said that artists don’t ‘know from where their next meal is coming’. Therefore, budget is a huge concern.  Again, after an entire decade of making close to 90% of my annual income as an artist, I’ve found some really great ways to make this work, be healthy, AND progress in my career. So today, in my first of many “On An Artists’ Budget” segments, I concentrate on the topic of Groceries and Eating. I will cover other things later, but for now, here are my 10 favorite avenues to meal prepping and creating a healthy meal plan on an artists budget. Enjoy!  

ONE - 30/30/40 The core of a bodybuilders’ meal planning is called 30/30/40 (30% Carbs, 30% Vegetables, and 40% Protein), and I highly recommend using this as a template for your three main meals. I use this rule as a rough template, because it ensures that our bodies is getting the majority of core macros it needs to operate in a healthy and effective manner. As you become more comfortable with this rule, you can begin to: measure or weigh your food, and/or utilize a macros calculator so that you can become even more precise with the results that your body produces. Macros calculators can be found online by doing a google search. In the meantime, you can eyeball this for your 3 main meals. Everybody’s body and goals are different, so if you decide to follow this, you may want to adjust for your own needs.

TWO - SNACKS The first time I started meal prepping, I left out snacks. Little did I know that they are very very important. If you do research on meal prepping, you’ll notice that more often than not, it is recommended to have three snacks in addition to three meals per day. This would mean eating once every two to three hours, and the reasoning behind this is that having a steady flow of reasonable portions of food throughout the day raises your metabolism. Hence, assisting you in weight loss and the maintenance of a healthy weight for your body type. You can adjust your snacks to be a protein shake, fruit, almonds/nuts, or even servings of vegetables if you need more minerals in your diet. My motto is to tweak these things to meet your personal needs. Everyone’s body and goals are different. It is my job to love and care for mine the best way possible. We only get one (that we know of). So I always recommend adjusting for maximum benefits and results.

THREE - BREAKFAST Breakfast is a meal which I can cheat ever so slightly since it is the first meal of the day and we have more time, I know that I’ll most likely burn things off throughout the day. I generally don’t do it (nor recommend it), but it is an individual decision. Since breakfast is the most important and essential meal of the day I always try to get all the things I need to get started, I try to eat hearty and well. Eggs, steel cut oatmeal, fruit, low fat greek yogurt, and/or any good balance of protein, fruit, grains, and vegetables can do a body well. I usually begin with some scrambled eggs and turkey bacon. If I have a really long day, then I add a little low fat greek yogurt (sometimes with blueberries for their antioxidants). Depending on if I remember or not, this is also where I consume my multi vitamin. If I forget, I take it at night, as that is when the body does the most repair work. Daily, a good multivitamin and fish oil pill (with one vitamin c pill, 1x a week) is my routine. Vitamin C is a natural booster for mood and immune system. If I miss once a week, then I will make sure to try and get at least one pill in every two weeks. If you have a great immune system or an easily maintainable mood you may not need one. Again, if you decide to follow this, you can adjust for your body and your needs. Everyone is different.

FOUR - PROTEIN SHAKES & PROTEIN BARS The general formula for maintaining muscle is to consume 1 gram of protein for every pound. So, if someone weighs 100lbs, they’ll want to consume 100g of protein. This is where the ’40%’ part of my three meals comes into play. I more than likely get most of my protein there, and can make some adjustments in snacks to balance. To gain weight, I’ll want to consume more than 1g per pound. Many bodybuilders recommend starting with 1.5 grams for every pound. So, if someone weighs 100lbs., then they’ll want to consume 150g of protein, and can do this by adding a protein shake (or protein bars) to their daily diet. Again, everyones bodies and goals are different, so if you decide to try this out, you’ll want to adjust and personalize for your own goals.

FIVE - JUICES In addition to protein shakes, I also like to have some sort of juice every once in a while. I like to add about three juice drinks a week. My favorite has come to be the green juice smoothie. Specifically, because I personally tend not to consume enough vegetables. Therefore having a green juice smoothie every once in a while helps me to keep up with my mineral intake. Again, you can omit juices, or even create whatever kind of juice you like to in order to support your nutritional goals. Everyone’s body is different, and everyone had different needs and goals. Here is the recipe for the Green Juice I follow, should you care to give it a try:

Green Juice Recipe Materials: 8 Lemons 2 green apples 2 stalk bunches of celery Bag of kale Bag of spinach 1 large coconut water

•Squeeze juice of 2 lemons into cup or mason jar •Chop 1/2 green apple and add to lemon juice •Clean and chop 5-7 stalks of celery to fill a different cup or mason jar •add 1/2 cup of coconut water •2 hand fulls of spinach •2 hand fulls of kale •1/2 cup filtered water Blend to liquefy Note: if using a blender start with kale and spinach then celery then apples. If using NutriBullet or the like start with apples then celery then kale and spinach.

SIX - WATER Our bodies are approximately 60% water. This must be maintained somehow. So I have always made an attempt to habitualize water consumption. Most health authorities recommend using the 8x8 rule, which states that you should consume 8, eight ounce glasses of water per day. I’ve gotten into the habit of drinking a glass of water with each meal. Hence, I end up consuming around six glasses of water per day. Added to the water that I consume while at the gym, I usually make my 8 glasses a day. I also like to take a BPA (Bisphenol A) free bottle with me everywhere I go so that I can get into the habit of filling it up with water and drinking it with regularity. This is also extra insurance that I am consuming enough water per day. For me, consuming water is one of my most valuable and powerful weapons agains combating dry skin, sickness, and the signs of aging. Results for me have been a clean, flush system system that is moist, lubricated, and works well. Again, every body is different and has different needs, just like everyone has different goals. So increase or decrease your water intake appropriately.

SEVEN - OVERALL PLAN My overall meal plan consists of 6 meals per day. 3 of those are full 3 course meals with a glass of water, and 3 of those are snacks. Once I have cooked my 30/30/40 items, I then sit out 12 containers and portion out everything into those 12 containers. Hence, I end up creating lunch and dinner for 6 days. Once this has been properly portioned out, I put lids on everything and stack them in my refrigerator. Next comes the snacks. I usually have sandwich bags or smaller containers for my snacks. Once those have been portioned out for six days (12 bags), I sit them beside their corresponding meals. Last, if necessary, I create some juices or shakes for each day and also sit those beside the corresponding meals for a day. At the end of this, I have a full week’s worth of meals that I can grab each day as I go. You can set up your meal prep in a way that works best for you. Here is a short 9 minute YouTube VIDEO that I created, which gives the general overview of my meal prep process.  

EIGHT - SUPPLEMENTS Supplements are very very individual thing and I always recommend doing a lot of research before diving into this. Hence, why this portion is going to be very short. You don’t want to throw off your body or any of it’s systems. I personally have resorted to using as few supplements possible. My favorite is BCAAs or Branch Chain Amino Acids. They are key in muscle building and help the process along great. You may want to increase your supplement intake, or just not use them all together. Again, every body is different and everyone’s goals are different.  

NINE - BUDGET/MAKING IT LAST I mentioned before that budget is always a concern for artists. You’ll notice that before juices or supplements my budget for groceries is around $35 per week. Here is the breakdown: Chicken - $14.00 (You can get them for around $7 each at Von’s or Safeway) Quinoa - $5.00 (Von’s, Trader Joes, or Safeway) Vegetables - $6.00 (Von’s, Trader Joes, or Safeway) Chicken Broth - $2.00 (Von’s, Trader Joes, Walgreens, or Safeway) Snacks - $7.00 (Depends what you make. If you want to get the Nuts an More, go to any fitness/health store like GNC) TOTAL = $34.00 per week

I tend to carry a ‘snack bag’ around with me, which I fill up with any free healthy snacks or samples that I find. If you do this around once a month, this will ensure that you don’t have to buy your own snacks and can sometimes save a weeks worth of snacks budget. In addition, many of us reading this are in the performing arts. Therefore, we are often at places where meals are provided. If you choose what you eat carefully while on a set, you can many times skip an entire week of meal prepping and can save an entire week’s meal prep budget. If so, this means that your monthly meal budget comes to only just over $100 per month. Imagine eating meals instead of eating out for a month. Most people spend close to $100 per week eating out. This includes coffee, snacks, meals, etc. That’s 4 times what you would spend if you were following a meal prep plan. Imagine what you could do with that kind of money freed up, OR imagine how well you’d do if you didn’t have work for a while. Meal prepping, grabbing free snacks, and eating on set…THAT is how I help to make it last!

TEN - FOLLOW THROUGH Many psychologists say that it takes approximately 21 days to form a habit for small things and some activities much longer. I usually shoot for about 30 days. Therefore, if I meal prep 1x a week for a month (30days), and get into the habit of eating my meals 6 days a week (I like to have one cheat day per week on Sundays) for a month, then I’m usually guaranteed to get into the habit of eating well and following through. The follow through with any behavior is one of the most essential parts. As a history of strong follow through will ensure long term results. I always recommend putting things on the calendar with details and with an accompanying reminder. It’s my personal practice. However, everybody (and body) is different and everyone has different goals. So, if you decide to do this, feel free to adjust for your own

CONCLUSION As artists, our work and livelihood are not guaranteed, and budget is always a concern for us. That often makes it difficult to have the energy to pursue the next endeavor in our passions. So learning to operate within the confines of a tight budget is essential, as is creating the sustenance to give us the energy to persevere. Wonder Woman’s early adventures pointed many times toward confidence and self love as the source of her power, and how you treat your body is an expression of love to yourself. Wonder Woman’s early adventures also pointed towards the importance of eating healthy as a way of self care. That being said, it is often repeated that we ‘are what we eat’ and that diet is 70% of our workouts/fitness. So the fuel we consume is an essential portion of this equation to providing that proper energy. It is why I have included meal prepping as one of the best practices in “Brian’s Bs”. But like any of my other best practices it is of the utmost importance that there is a clear understanding of self and of goals so that a realistic plan can be conceived. Be very clear about what your bodies needs are and what your goals are, and you will learn to adjust for optimum results. And if you plan on purchasing supplements, don’t forget to consult your doctor. Matter of fact, since every body is different, and every body had different issues, it may be a good idea to consult your doctor in general just to be certain that this kind of plan would be for you. Either way, I’m sure you can see how following 30/30/40, snacks, shakes, juices, water consumption, and meal prepping/eating healthy as a general practice can improve your mental, emotional, and physical state to give you the energy to accomplish your artistic endeavors. Hereby giving you a stepping stone toward creating the life that you love. That in itself is the best reward. Not to mention the I have been able to do it for years, and if I can, then you DEFINITELY can!

I hope you found value in this post and value in the accompanying video.

Best,

Brian J. Patterson “Only love can truly save the world!” - Wonder Woman

[vafanapoliputtana]

June 26 2017

Its almost 4am and there are so many things left unsaid that I wish you knew. So many "if", "what could've been" and "what should've been" But I've reached the point that I need to stop wishing and you need to start listening. So many times have I tried to pick on your mysterious mind, observing you from afar and watching your life pass on a daily basis. It grew from a simple admiration to obsessing and over analyzing ever word you utter, trying to find meaning to your every action. I watched you, observed and loved you from a distance like a little kid watching her favorite movie wishing that I was part of your world too. But like anything else, I need to stop wishing. The cycle of insecurities, threatening oppositions and false assumptions caused by my indecisive, dark mind has weathered us along with time. The distance has never felt more farther than its actual physicality. Our weary minds has taken toll on both the happiness that we once enjoyed, slowly losing hope on the possibility that we'll see each other again.

You never talked much; as much I tried to provoke you. Like the moon, you kept yourself distant; stern and aloof with one side of you hidden. I guess that's why I was so attracted to you; I saw an older shadow of myself. But like anything else, I eluded myself into thinking that maybe, just maybe, if I took myself to take the risk of finally letting my guard down and stop denying what I felt for you, i'd get you to do the same too. But I didn't. It was a failed attempt that I shouldn't have taken. Now find myself caught in the illusions of my expectations: concealing the real nature of reality. I was never fond of words nor actions. (You should've noticed that whenever I'm aloof with you sometimes.) Beneath the flirtatious jokes was a part of me that wanted you. You believed that actions speak louder than words; but you have to understand that I won't believe your words nor your actions until both can work simultaneously because words can be misinterpreted and are be full of lies as well as actions can be faked. Blame it on my history if you can; it's the only explanation I can provide for this defense mechanism that has served as my second skin. In the long run, never have I heard the things that I wish I would hear you say. It wasn't your fault. I'm sorry for putting the blame on you for my expectations and the the fact that I don't trust my instincts. Nothing haunts me more at night than not knowing or believing if you love me; because a part of me feel like you do.

I don't blame you if you want to leave; but you need to understand that it's hurting me bad. Every wound feels fresh even though I said I've developed a thick skin to pain. If only you knew how much I try to look for reasons to come back; if only you know how much I'm beating myself EVERY.FUCKING.DAY for failing you. If only you knew how much I try to fight my thoughts of knowing this can never work. The only thing making me hold on is because I believe. I believe in us. But my pathetic self isn't worth the fight. I'm a nobody with nothing to offer you but a crazy little mind that causes havoc out of the blue and a pure heart. I never meant to do you wrong; or hurt you. I don't think I'm ever capable of doing so no matter how much It hurts. My intentions are genuine and far from what this bad world has caused you. I see myself in you; who thinks that with every healed wound comes a thicker skin and a reminder of what was once a source of pain. But in reality, a scar is a scar; a reminder and a mark from the past. In reality, it's very rare that we get bruised on the same spot twice. Point taken: don't be afraid of getting hurt. You cant wear an armor forever. The bruise may be the same but how you got it and from where is different. It always is.

I learned this from you. From the time we first knew each other, little did you know I admired you for this. You were my favorite peculiar thing to observe, carefully taking mental notes of your visions of reality. You added the reality to the dream I clouded myself in. You were my personal black hole as well as my moon. As much as I tried to let go, you always pulled me back with that little hope in me that you're different from the rest. That got me expecting; Expecting that one day you realize that you need me too and see you coming for me rather than waiting.

I know that this idea will never happen. I know that the only day I'll see you again will depend on me... But that's not even the case anymore.

That's the thing that hurts me the most; my very own kryptonite. I'm incapable of dependency. I hate the fact that I cant change this to make us any better; i hate the fact that you'll never go through the lengths of what I'm willing to do if I can. Compromise and sacrifices are not part of our little dictionary, but it's something we beed to accept and do to make things function.

Don't think I'm not putting enough effort. All my effort has been placed and right now I'm just waiting for the chips to fall where they may. Time is unforgiving and stern. Time has always been a unbending contradiction. I'm done trying to mend things, i'm done trying to shake things up. The chips are on your hands now.

I don't want you to expect as much as I'm expecting from you. As much as I'd love beat the crap out of you right now for being a bitch: i still don't want to hurt you as much and you're hurting me. Just to make you feel the pain of how it hurts to expect that someday maybe you'll turn out of the blue, uninvited. Do you know how much it hurts waking up to empty mornings wishing you were here? or spacing out of nowhere in the middle of daydreaming a bunch of "what ifs".. and How it hurts knowing that someone else wants you and once had you. Knowing that this person is out there to give you want I cant. I can never turn my back against you like the others did. I wouldn't be me if it wasn't for you. As scary as it sounds, you've left your mark by shaping a part of me to see things from a different perspective of how i used to see the world. You calmed me down but at the same time caused a chaos to the things i try to keep in order: my mind and feelings.

there's an intangible string of what ifs, what could've been and should've been at this point and neither of us wanted to face the mess. What ifs, what should've beens and what could've been fuzzed by "why nots'" "what should be" and "what could be."

I still believe in that, but do you?

I'm sorry if I sound delusional at this point. I warned you I'm a bit mental with psychotic tendencies. It's about time you understand what I really feel. If only i can make you feel what I feel to make you understand. If only you can let me in as much as I let you in even though you're more of locked diary and I'm more of an open book. I want to make you understand that even your slightest actions affect me. Maybe I don't know what Im saying; nothing is crystal clear at this point but the fact that I'm hurting. It's all pain I see and feel at this point. No song or any other piece of craft can interpret this.

I dont want to be the one choking you

If you want to leave; just go.

I'm not going to stop you.

I cant keep being selfish.

If only we can go back to the place where we began; a fresh new start. Not as strangers but at the point when we were still happy.

I need to learn how to stop expecting and as always, i'm learning it from you.

But don't shut me out. Don't burn our bridge.

Thanks for everything.

You know I love you.

[watermonkey0]

4th Point of Contact - Mission Report #7

Author: WaterMonkey0

Pairing: Do Kyungsoo / Harper Hasagawa (OC)

Current Chapter Rating: PG

Genre: Canon

Mission Reports: #1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7

I learned a lot more over the next few weeks about Kpop than I ever thought I would in my lifetime. Entertainment companies in Korea were not like the record labels back home. These agencies controlled every aspect of their brand, including: who they chose to train, what image they would portray, when they would begin their career, what type of music they would produce, everything.

Idols start their journeys off as ‘trainees’, having signed a contract with their company, but not ready to ‘debut’, meaning: start performing and stuff. They work daily with the choreographers, vocal coaches, linguists, and managers employed by their company until it’s decided that they are prepared. These baby idols live where I live, in the trainee dorm, either thriving or not in this highly competitive world. And when I say highly competitive, I mean highly competitive. Hell week in boot camp was bad, but at least I didn’t have to sing in perfect pitch while someone bounced a basketball on my stomach.

Tala also taught me that entertainment agencies trade trainees like Pokémon cards, and that’s how she ended up at SM.

~~~

Then of course, there were the boys. EXO came down to the lot nearly everyday, and Bacon made it a point to give me a high five. He always made the effort to speak to me, whether we were passing in the hall, the elevator, or when they were coming to pick up a van. It was sweet, even though I knew ‘hello’ was probably the extent of his english. And here I was, having downloaded three language apps, forced Tala to implement a Korean word of the day, and nearly drowned myself in Kpop...and the only word I knew was ‘yeoboseyo’. We were two peas in a pod, Bacon and I.

June came and went in a whirl of glitter, parking passes, and being constantly yelled at in Korean. By July 1st, I was ready to pull my hair out, but the look of smug victory I imagined on Chief Soo’s face kept me motivated. He wasn’t going to win, and I sure as hell wasn’t going to lose. I counted our interactions as battles in a thirteen year long war: the spark set off in his office where I took the lead, but he pushed back swiftly with carpool duty. So far, we were 1-1 and stalled, until July 4th when I couldn’t contain my desire for tacos any longer.

Ladies and Gentlemen, did you know that the largest military base outside of the United States is located 60 miles south of Seoul? Camp Humphreys is an army base, sprawling 1,200 acres, and only has plans to grow in the future. Men I served with in Japan would boast about the accommodations, how nice they were, how new. I would swiftly drop kick them over hacksaw ridge, but that’s beside the point. On this Independence Day, when I’d sold my soul to a Korean ‘Agma’ and all I wanted was a little taste of home, I sucked it up.

I didn't want to go to Humphreys, but I knew very little about the installations in the area and frankly...no one would look at me twice on a base that size. So I caught a bus south from Seoul, and dozed against the window. I wasn't the only one on the bus going to the camp so it was easy to go unnoticed in a line on new recruits. Thankfully, no one bothered to ask where my luggage was for someone fresh from america, and they glossed right over my rank. The unintentional disrespect pricked at the back of my neck, but I said nothing. I outranked everyone here, or at least...I used to. Your status follows you even into retirement, but what would be the benefit of making a spectacle of myself here? I'd announce, be saluted, go about my day, and then someone would inevitably ask where I'd been, why I didn't reelist like I said I would, why the legendary 'Baroness' was groveling for scraps in Korea, and those were questions I was nowhere near able to answer without resorting to violence first. So I stayed quiet, and allowed the guardsmen to lead the group of privates in. The commissary was brand new, which was nice, and it came fully equipped with the military comfort basics: Burger King, Popeyes, Starbucks, and Pizza Hut. Not to mention the fancy schmancy BX, where Samsung was doing well for business. I swear they sold bigger TVs here than back home. But the auxiliaries were hosting a special cook out for the holiday, and that's what I came for. I doubt anyone got off work, but they got hot dogs, so where was the issue? Thankfully, as I slipped into the serving line, I was correct about being anonymous. The biggest base in the world was used to constantly new faces, and the ladies who ladled my plate full of potato salad and baked beans smiled at me warmly. 'Thank you for your service' they said, and my stomach twisted into a knot. I claimed a small table with only one chair so no one friendly could try and join me, and chowed down to my heart's content. It's true that fast food can kill you, but I don't think anything could give you a sweeter death. I probably looked feral, shoveling the food into my face, but when you live off of ramen for a month, you get a manners pass. I couldn't order in Korean, so how was I supposed to go to a restaurant? It wasn't like anyone was itching to take me out to eat. Moody Kyungsoo barely looked at me, even when Bacon dragged them over, Chief Soo was busy trying to fire me, and CEO Kim wasn't exactly the 'take-you-out-for-Korean-BBQ' type of man. I supposed I could have asked Tala, but I bothered her enough as it was. I was just starting to feel comfortable again when my phone rang. With a groan, I licked hot sauce off my fingers and answered without looking. “Ms. Hasagawa.” The falsely chipper voice of CEO Kim made me shudder. “Yes, sir?” I replied, not even trying to pretend I knew how to say that in Korean. “After looking at the numbers, I would like to congratulate you on your success in our Vehicle Organization Unit.” “You mean the parking lot?” I snorted. “You have turned it into one of our most productive areas.” “Well look at me…” It was like, no matter what I meant to say, sarcasm just fell out of my mouth. “Your performance has been noted by your supervisor as well.” He added, and I paused at that. “You mean Chief Soo?” “Yes.” “I highly doubt he has anything nice to say on my behalf.” I grumbled, annoyed that I’d gone a solid fifteen minutes without thinking about my terrible boss only for him to be brought back up again. “Luckily I have him right here.” There was the district sound of the phone being switched to speaker, and I could feel the uncomfortable silence between an employee who didn’t want to say something and a boss who was making him. “Hasagawa.” He pretty much barked, and I had to pull the phone away from my ear for a second. “What?” I grunted, eyeing my burger that was getting colder by the minute. “Tell her about the trip, Laon.” I heard CEO Kim in the background dictating. “As you know, SM encouraged unity and happiness in its employees, and strives to make the workplace a desirable and productive place to work.” “Ahuh?” I slurred. “And every year, SM encourages its employees to attend their yearly team building retreat, this year held on Jeju island.” “Ahuh?” “And this year, your presence is requested.” His words were clipped short. “Ahuh…” “What else do you have to tell her, Laon?” CEO Kim asked, and I knew exactly what kind of face he was making behind Chief Soo’s back. “And…you’re being promoted.” I heard the sound of a whiny child in his voice, and I could have laughed. “Ahuh.” I said instead. “Will you stop your idiotic gawking and speak!” Chief Soo snapped. “Laon…” CEO Kim warned pleasantly. I could get used to having him around if he was able to keep Chief Soo on a leash like this. After the sound of an angry throat being cleared, Chief Soo gave me my second victory. “Harper Hasagawa, you are now assigned to the security detail of EXO. You will attend the retreat with them, and participate with the other officers.” “What happened to me being a stubborn, stupid American?” I chided with a grin. There was another pause, and I could tell he was working up to it, the words nauseating him. But CEO Kim was staring, so there was no way he couldn’t.

“I misspoke. I apologize.”

~

The SMTown retreat was all anyone was talking about once I made it back to Seoul. Tala nearly tackled me in the hallway outside my room. "Did you hear?!" She exclaimed as I pushed my door open. "Hear what?" I pretended, dropping my keys on the bed. She quickly slipped off her shoes while I didn't bother. That was something I was never going to get used to. It was that way in Japan as well, and Kojima never passed up an opportunity to remind me how uncivilized I was. "The retreat!" she squealed and jumped on my bed before I could sit down. She was moving too fast for my stuffed self, so I gave up and opted for the desk chair. "We're all going on the retreat!" "So?" I asked, picking up the closest book to me and staring at the page. It was a Korean-English dictionary, somewhere in the 'S'. When I didn't feed into her excitement, Tala started to pout, and crossed her arms with a huff. "You're going too." She said snobbishly. "Your name was on list with rest of security." "Probably need someone to park the cars." I snickered, and then actually did grin at myself. "Oh come on!" She cried, throwing her hands in the air. "This what you wanted! You get to work with EXO!" She grabbed for the book, but I pulled it from her reach. It was unavoidable now, and she knew she had my attention. "What are you going to do about Chief Soo?"  I would call it a moment of weakness, when I told Tala nearly everything about myself , but you can't really call it a moment when you do it over and over again. She was truly my only companion in the whole country, and I overused the ear she offered. So I mumbled and grumbled, tossing the prop book aside. What was I going to do about Chief Soo? I was up by one, but knowing him, this retreat that was not his idea was going to be the perfect place for him to get back on top. "What even is this trip?" I asked, and Tala smirked, knowing she'd hooked me. She liked being my source of information. "It's a workshop for employees. Trainees work on debut, idols work on comebacks, and security..." She wagged her eyebrows at me, "work on teamwork." "You're kidding me." I deadpanned, not interested in the slightest. "No! There's a competition every year to see who's the best!" Her face lit up suddenly, and she jumped off the bed and grabbed my arm. "You need to win it! Then Chief Soo can't touch you!" The taste of victory brought with it a little melancholy. If I won this competition, my war with Chief Soo would be all but over. He couldn't fire me if I had the backing of the company. Then again...how were the rest of the guards going to feel if I swooped in and destroyed them? Been there, done that. I shook Tala off my arm, but nodded to her. "When do we leave?" The company hadn't given me a whole lot of notice. It was tuesday and we were set to leave next monday. I had less than a week to get back into the kind of shape that would win me the contest. And then there was the fact that I didn't know what kind of contest it was. If it was a kimchi eating contest, I was out of luck. And they didn't use firearms in this country, so I was up a creek there too. My hand to hand was decent, but I feel like the guards at LAX were more surprised than outmanned. Not to sell myself short or anything. This was the land of Taekwondo, after all. Is that racist? I turned the parking lot into a workout center by doing pull ups on the doorframe of the shack, chair dips on the bumper of the vans, and making the managers park in a relay that I could run when no one was looking. It felt good stretching my legs again, oddly satisfying even. The day after the rescue, I felt every single punch and kick in my bones; I was sore for days. But exercising now, I could get back to that dreaded six minute mile Kojima had teased me about. The trainee dorms were buzzing come monday. Boys and girls last minute packing, darting from room to room, borrowing clothes, making promises to bunk together. It felt like I was going off to summer camp with a gaggle of my closest strangers. Over the last month, and no doubt due to Tala's nagging, the rest of the kids had warmed up to me. To my surprise, only one of them had been lying about being able to speak English. The rest truly struggled with the language, and I won them over by helping them with their studies. SM was outdoing itself this year, or so I was told. In addition to the groups like NCT, EXO, SNSD, Red Velvet, and more, CEO Kim also wanted to take actors, models, MCs, and others from his sub-labels SM C&C and Mystic Entertainment. The company would be taking almost 900 employees to this resort on Jeju Island, and I was already feeling cramped as we staged to leave for the airport. The flight to the island was a whopping hour and fifteen minutes, and from there, they would cart us to the resort by bus, another thirty minutes. A small part of my hoped that Tala would just adopt me without asking, and I wouldn't have to awkwardly follow along behind the cliques of girls and glitter... but it didn't happen. She disappeared with some of the girls from a group called Red Velvet and I was left with my stupid ruck, standing by the bus, hoping someone would come save me. 

~

The resort was stunning. Halfway between the beach and nothing, uniquely modern houses sat clustered around long day pools. Each house had many rooms, and their own porches that sported a hot tub for each. A volleyball court could be seen a hundred yards away where the water lapped at the sand, bordered by coconut trees and palm branches. It was the epitome of island life. At the far end of the resort, a large recreational building had been prepped to house a thousand dancing teenagers. "Harper came!" Baekhyun grinned from ear to ear as EXO unloaded from their bus. "Since when are you calling girls by their first names?" Junmyeon chided from behind him. "Since she told me to! I'm gonna go say hi!" And before anyone could stop him, the leader of the beagle line was off and all smiles. Kyungsoo watched forlornly as Harper's face, which had been a mask of boredom, blossomed into relief when Baek romped up to her. Kyungsoo had to admit that his brother had that effect on people, but he thought it would be really great if Baek didn't use it on her. A month had gone by, and she was still here. All the bets that had been made in regard to her stay were past paid. No one put money on the fact that she would stay longer than a month, let alone a week as a glorified valet. Junmyeon, not in so many words, had told everyone else about the war Chief Soo declared on her, and Kyungsoo couldn't fathom the depths of her hardheadedness if the only reason she was staying was to win. So he did his best to ignore her, and tried not to be associated with her. See, at SM there were no secrets. Everyone knew everything. But it was how each person used the information that differed. People knew she and Kyungsoo has history, but up until now, no one had decided to use that against him. It was just how the game was played here. He hated it, but there was nothing he could do but play.

Baekhyun grabbed Harper's hand and pulled her over to EXO. "Guys! Harper is going to eat lunch with us!" He declared, and Kyungsoo wondered how they communicated enough for him to even ask. She seemed to concentrate on the words that were being tossed around as the rest of the boys commented on one thing or another about the resort. It was a test really, to see how much she'd learned. After a moment, all eyes went to her and she visibly gulped. As smug as he wanted to be in that moment, when her eyes met his, he felt like he should throw her a bone. "B-Beautiful." She stumbled over the pronunciation, but the outcome was clear: she passed. At least she knew what they were talking about. Suho seemed much more proud than he should of as he patted her on the shoulder and gestured towards the rec building. A sign of good faith that he wouldn't lead her straight into the ocean. "How long are you gonna act like this?" Kyungsoo turned to Jongin, who was looking at him intently. The other guys started towards the cafeteria with Harper safely at their center. "Act like what?" Kyungsoo said defensively, hanging back from the group. "Like she's the worst thing in the world." Jongin watched as the other members took turns saying something to Harper and giggling when she barely understood. "I'm not." Kyungsoo snapped and readjusted his bag on his shoulder, unhappily defensive. "You refuse to breathe the same air as her most of the time." Jongin pointed out, and started behind the boys. Kyungsoo bit his lip, hating that his position on the matter was pitting him against his brothers. He hurried to Jongin's side and hissed into his ear, "She reckless." Hoping maybe he would sympathize. "And?" Jongin asked instead, and Kyungsoo sighed. He really was alone with the voice of reason. "She should have left when she had the chance." He grunted. But Jongin had the false sense of optimism that most maknae had. "You know...I kind of admire her courage." He commented, not leaving Kyungsoo for his objections. "It's not courage, it's stupidity." D.O. murmured, but Jongin grinned at him. "I don't know...standing up for what you believe in, keeping your word, staying reliable...those seem like pretty respectable traits, don't you think?" Kyungsoo grabbed Jongin's wrist and stopped him. With a little more space between them and those who could overhead, Kyungsoo asked, "What are you getting at?" Jongin wasn't usually one for confrontation, but from the outside, Kyungsoo knew he was being the aggressive one. "I'm just saying," He shrugged, letting Kyungsoo keep his hand, "she's not going anywhere. The least you could do is make peace." Kyungsoo let him go, and Jongin patted his shoulder reassuringly. "Besides hyung, Baekhyun likes her." And with that, he joined the group as they entered the rec center. ~ CEO Kim proudly stood before his empire, the massive crowd of celebrities he'd assembled that all carried his name. They were the biggest company in Korea, the one everyone wanted to be a part of, and he was the head of it all. The cafeteria was as big as a basketball court, with round tables that could seat whole groups (maybe not NCT). Everyone watched as he stood at the head of the room and addressed them. He welcomed them to the SMTown Retreat, and gave them all the basic information they would need. The managers were handling most everything. In fact, CEO Kim wasn't even staying. He'd flown in solely to give this speech, and to make sure his head of security had fallen in line. It may have been an oversight on his part, although he would never admit it, that he didn't realize sooner Harper hadn't been put into the correct rotation. But he wasn't there to cater to the whims of one american, even if he put her there especially. Besides, the situation had been rectified, and he had no doubt that she would be able to withstand whatever backlash Laon had planned for her.

~

Kyungsoo watched Baekhyun lead Harper through the line, pointing out what things were, talking like a motorboat in Korean, there was no way she could keep up. Deep down, he knew Jongin was right, that he should suck it up and keep the peace. She'd saved their lives after all. He shouldn't forget that. But it wasn't enough to make him get up and go translate for them. Baek could make a fool of himself if he wanted. It wasn't too much for Harper to slap him upside the head like she had in LA. When Baek finally lead her back to their table, Kyungsoo caught her shooting glances in his direction, like she was waiting for him to object to her sitting with them. If he was anything, he was competitive, and maybe that would be the best way they could survive this. So when she looked to him, he pulled the chair out for her to sit. Daring her to sit. Everyone else might have missed it, but a small smirk told him she saw his play, and she sat down. No one said anything for a moment. That's not true, Baekhyun never stopped talking, but they were all skilled at tuning him out. Harper kept her eyes locked on Kyungsoo's, playing chicken to see who would look away first. "Ooooh Harper, I know he's pretty but you really shouldn't stare!" Baekhyun cried, and she cracked a smile. Kyungsoo looked away, and she won. Both the staring contest, and his compromise. They'd find a way to live with each other. It wasn't like they had much choice. The rest of the boys joined in the teasing, and pretty soon, it was comfortable. They ate their lunch and talked about the sessions they had planned for the afternoon. There was no time to stop and sight see. It was straight to the grind day one. They could see the beach later.

[coffeeandcalligraphy]

Things to try when doubting my words | Doing the Write Thing #74

Back at it again for a super quick DtWT update y’alls, holla at ya boi. 

(Quite possibly my worst intro??)

Today was a lil bit of an exhausting day, ha. I’ve been strangely tired all week, but I’m super relieved to say hellooo to the weekend. This writing session was rather short (hence this update’s length), but I thought I’d share some Friday night progress!

Daily word count goal: 250

Words written: 360

Total word count: 39 844

(incessantly worrying bout the fact that this book is already 40k words and nothing has happened, OH my)

Total page count: 70

Songs played: No music today, but I did spend a solid 30 mins downloading all of The Nicholas Project’s music (aka Current Joys before the name change to TELE/VISIONS and then to Current Joys, ha) because oh boi did I find a gold MINE:

(if you’re down for some litttt lo-fi [and sometimes beachy] music, Nick kills it with this and I’m v/ shook for not discovering this sooner [also they’re all free downloads except 2008-2010, which is pay what you can]) 

I’ve yet to make a full listen through of all of these, since this is a solid 35 songs, and ya girl discovered this today, lol. Old Shit is blowing me away, my fave from that is Exit Music (For A Short Film), and is a go to rec for my indie friends, along with TV LUV SONG (wavves cover) off The Basement Tapes, and Bride of Frank also off Old Shit. I’ll get back to you with more favourites in the future, ha, but I’m digging these quite a lot, and listening to younger Nick is an experienceeeee. 

Things to know: I was having a bit of trouble getting into writing, but wanted to write, although I knew I was hella tired. I think I was a smidge fearful going into this writing session, just because eh, I’m about to get into writing something really emotional, and ayyyy, not prepared to feel those. So I kinda quit before the emotional part, lol, but still got stuff done!

Speaking of fear! 

I spoke with my psychologist earlier this week about this super demotivating fear in my writing, and we spent some time brainstorming ways to get over that hump! I’m going to share the list of five (she added a sixth) we came up with, in case it could help one of you!

1. Look for an awesome word or sentence I love in my writing.

So we talked a bit about how much of a word junkie I am, so this was my suggestion for what I can do when fear is taking over and being like yooo run away from the computer and hide on tumblrrrrr my dude. I like weird, cool words, so this one is fun for me.

The point of this suggestion (and all of these actually) is for if I’m about to run away from writing, and want to not do that. She made it clear though that these should be methods to guide me back to my writing, so no breaks on YouTube as a suggestion, writing a blog post, etc. Something I can do in the bubble of my words, you feel? I should also elaborate on this one: I suggested that I look for a word I could find an even better/quirkier word for in a passage, for example, so you can also do that!

2. Read the dictionary.

Ya girl is a word junkie, my dudes. I love learning new words, and improving my vocabulary. Something I really enjoy doing is inputting a word I like through a thesaurus, and from there, click on synonyms of synonyms to find new words/be inspired by the definitions of words. Ooooh this is geeky as fuuuuh. I actually do this regularly, lolz. 

3. Look at my printed quotes

So this was also my suggestion! Sometimes when writing got me down, and I need a lil inspo, I’ll go through quotes from Virginia Woolf’s The Waves because the book’s themes/tone is in the vein of where I’m at for this particular book, and ma girl Virginia always brings me the inspiration. I also suggested I print these and keep ‘em near me when working so I don't have to get caught up on the internet! I’ll probs add some quotes from The Girls in the compilation because Emma Cline is top notchhhh and her writing is also inspo for dayz?

4. Face the blank page

So this was a super cool suggestion my doctor suggested! I have yet to try it, but the gist is, to open a blank page, and write exactly how I feel. For example, if I’m nervous about writing, or insecure about writing, the first thing I’d do is open a new Word doc and write ‘I’m afraid and insecure’, and from there, write line-by-line how I feel. Kind of journal style, but I happen to be hella poetic and dramatic when writing about my feelings, so I often do find gems to put in my writing through my journalling process lol. I thought this was super cool, since it’s a bit of a spin on freewriting! Basically, the point is to write a bit of an instructional on my thoughts, like I’m afraid and insecure. I will mess up this scene if I write it. I feel emotionally disconnected from this scene, etc etc, until the words start flowing, and some of that anxiety/emotion expels!

#5 is a super personal one, so I’m going move on to the last one, which was:

Bonus: Process the emotion, identify the feeling, and pay attention to it. 

I didn’t know she wrote this one, and it made me smile when she printed this out and handed it to me, lol. 

So maybe these can potentially help other people who deal with fear/doubt in their work! Being stuck suuucks, but these were a couple solutions I’ll definitely try!

back to ze update

How I felt: ehhh. very ehhh.

Bad haiku to describe writing session: Ehhh is a good word / To describe this one session / Ehhh it was a lot 

Rating of writing session out of 10 and why: It actually wasn’t that bad, I think I was just foreseeing the disaster that could potentially come, so wasn’t very rooted in what I was writing. I’m going to say a 7?

On a scale from 1-10 my level of stoked-ness is: Uh. Maybe also a 7, lol. Mostly because I’m a bit nervous (I’m writing with Foster who I haven’t written with in like three months ahh), but uh, yeah, hopefully I can channel my inner human sadness tomorrow. 

Lyrics to describe writing session: 'Cause in my waking mind / Oh, I feel so far away / 'Cause in my mind these nights / Are more beautiful than your days

--My Nights Are More Beautiful Than Your Days, Current Joys (A Different Age)

#relevant

GIF to describe writing session: 

yikersss

Excerpt: 

short line but mood all week:

Lonan looks ill.

Here’s a short description ft. my expedition in verbifying the entire world:

The bed is hotel ready, set with frilly throw pillows, and a silk sheeted duvet. The accent wall is tethered with gingham wallpaper and tetris’d picture frames.

I actually decided to google images of master bedrooms in case I wanted to describe more things and have a visual aid, and that came in handy for the picture frame thing, of which I used this pic as inspo for:

my inner home reno show lover was coming out with these descriptions, catch me being like look at that fully functioning ensuite tho, the open concept design

This isn’t my favourite thing but it’s about Lonan and his angstiness:

I don’t know what it’s like to be forgotten like this. Still alive and obvious in the real world, but painfully erased from the mind. 

I wrote this bit a couple days ago, sharing because I made up a word (glosh wtf is a glosh) and mentioned salty beaches, and s-curves which is another photography thing, someone take away my camera bag and lenses pls:

At first it was cloudy memories. A house, not a basement. The unfamiliar glosh of water on the drive up. And on his stumble back to my place, remembered the beach five minutes from the residence, salty and buzzing with tourists. Faint sights and smells and sounds, creating the map of his s-curved route.

(by glosh I mean the sound of water hitting water, it’s a very particular sound reminiscent of GLOSH, not gloop, not wash, there’s probs a word that fits this that I’m not remembering, but lol, for now it be glosh).

So that’s it for now! This update was supposed to be short, but, ha. I had fun writing this, and I hope you had fun reading it/found something helpful/enjoyed it!

--Rachel

[gyrlversion]

Phone book, whats a phone book? 20 everyday tasks that nobody does anymore

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With new and efficient technology, these 6 tasks have fallen out of our daily routines. USA TODAY

Daily necessities are vanishing one by one, thanks to new and efficient technology. Stamps, maps and cookbooks still exist, but we hardly ever need them. Why place a personals ad when you can just “swipe left?”

The standard electronics, gear and ways of yesteryear have vanished as if it was never invented at all. As old formats disappear, that leaves us with the task of what to do with our memories.

Even services that seem new are vanishing in the name of progress; Apple is killing off iTunes, for example. and here’s what it means to your music and movies.

Here are some rituals that are no longer required in many households. If you’re 40 years or older, you’ll probably smile with nostalgia. Share this list on social media. Others will enjoy this trip down memory lane too!

1. Memorize a phone number

Pop quiz: How many phone numbers do you know by heart? Some people don’t even know their spouse’s numbers. How times have changed. Now, you tell your smart assistant to call someone in your contacts, or you touch their name on your phone.

The earliest cellphones required you to transfer your entire directory by hand, from the old unit to the new one; now, with cloud technology, your contacts are automatically downloaded.

What happens if you lose your phone, say, at a Disney theme park? This couple got separated and turned to Facebook for help.

2. Use a phone book to find a company to do work around your house

Generation Z may not even know what “Yellow Pages” refers to. They may not have ever seen a phone book.

Online consumer services like Angie’s List and Yelp have made finding service people easy, plus you can read other users’ ratings. One of the newer ways to find ultra-local services is Nextdoor, which has a special section for “recommendations,” along with crime watches and other local info.

3. Sell your car with a cardboard sign stuck on the windshield

Unless you’re selling your vehicle to someone you know and trust, these transactions can get sticky and even a little dangerous, especially with all the trolls. Craigslist started more than 20 years ago, and it’s still going strong, although it, too, still suffers from trolls and weirdos. If you want to sell your car, here are three sites that may be better than Craigslist.

4. Figure out math in your head

Few of us ever carried calculators with us to the grocery store. In contrast, pretty much everyone with a smartphone uses it to do basic calculations, no matter where or when you need it. In fact, you don’t even have to jab numbers anymore, physical or virtual: Tell Siri to solve a math problem, or command Alexa to do that pesky long division for you, along with countless other handy skills.

5. Call and ask a family member, “Where are you?”

Find My Friends changed the family-safety landscape by geographically connecting iPhone users. This app was a life-saver for parents with kids, adults taking care of aging parents, and countless others. Phone Tracker is a free app for iPhone and Android-powered phones that not only tracks location but also messaging and web activity.

Analog clocks may be teetering on extinction. (Photo: robas / Getty Images)

6. Tell time by hands on a clock

Like cursive writing, analog clocks may be teetering on extinction. Few people with smartphones bother with watches anymore, unless they’re fashion statements or fitness trackers. With digital clocks dominating our computers and hardware, those 12-numeral timepieces may become pure novelties.

Even your trusted alarm clock has received a tech makeover. Click or tap for three apps that monitor your sleep cycle, and wake you up when you’ll feel the most rested.

7. Make photo albums

It’s hard to imagine printing an image at a one-hour photo store, taking back your packet of 4×6 snapshots, and then meticulously pasting them into a faux-leather photo album. Given the ease of digital photography, and the innumerable images you could produce on a regular day, you’d fill up entire shelves in no time.

Photo-sharing services like Flickr and Amazon Cloud and have existed for some years, and now some apps will help you organize your photos and keepsakes, some of them from well-known companies like CVS and Walgreens.

8. Have a CD or record collection

Wasn’t it cool back in the day to walk into a shabby-chic apartment and see those shelves of CDs? Wasn’t it a joy to flip through boxes of vinyl records? Napster was the first sign that music could exist as a tiny, virtual MP3 file, and then iPods basically dealt the death blow.

Today, music exists as a digital index on a screen. Purists may love their turntables, but CDs have probably gone the way of the wax cylinder.

9. Make mixtapes

There was something so special about a mixtape. We spent hours finding the right song, then lining up two cassettes to copy a song. So many lovers cemented their relationships using a blank tape and a few dozen favorite albums.

Now, you can drag and drop a digital playlist in seconds.

10. Call a theater to get movie times

Back in the day, you’d dial a theater and listen to its endless-loop recording of movies and times. Sometimes, you’d catch it mid-loop and have to wait for it to start at the beginning to get all the movie.

With Google, type “movie times,” and the search engine will list films based on your location. You can also ask your personal assistant, such as Google Home, what films are playing at the cineplex and what time they’re on, along with tons of other tricks and Easter eggs.

Blockbuster: There’s only one store left in the entire world

Perks: Amazon expands free one-day shipping for Prime members

11. Record your favorite programs on tape

All year, we’d wait for “It’s a Wonderful Life” or “The Wizard of Oz” to pop up on TV. When they did, we’d push a VHS tape into the machine and wait until the proper moment to press “record.”

When TiVo emerged, it streamlined this process by making scheduled recordings even simpler. Now, with streaming services, web archives and easy-to-purchase downloads, the timing of a broadcast barely matters anymore. But as you cut on the cord on traditional cable television, make sure you pick the services that best meet your interests and budget.

12. Watch shows when they are broadcast live

In the same vein, we rarely have to sit in front of the television, eagerly waiting for a “major network event.” Services like Hulu and YouTube convert a huge amount of national television into a digital format, and local news stations log most of their important segments onto their websites.

13. Run to the store for a last-minute gift

Curses! You forgot a Mother’s Day gift! Should you change your whole schedule so you can rush to the store and hurriedly pick something out? If you have Amazon Prime and live in an Amazon hub, there’s no need. You can order same-day delivery and have that gift couriered to your front door.

It’s just one of the many benefits you probably didn’t know Amazon offers. Click here for more than 20 lesser-known perks that come with your Amazon Prime membership.

14. Cut things out of the newspaper

When I was a kid, my dad used to cut out articles from the newspaper and put them in my lunchbox. I miss those days. If Dad were still alive today, he’d do what most of us do: Tap or click a button to share content by text or email. Speaking of sharing information, do you get my newsletters? Dad would like that!

15. Send a handwritten letter

Don’t get me wrong: It’s still wonderful to receive a postcard from faraway places. You might say that email, texting and video conversations have made handwritten letters even more special. But no one is forced to transcribe their thoughts by hand and drop those letters in a mailbox. Heck, nowadays, we use voice dictation to write messages.

16. Looking up the spelling of words in the dictionary

Spellcheck is nearly as old as word processors, and many of us have grown up expecting Microsoft Word to underline our mistakes in red squiggles. But autocorrect takes this concept a step further, guessing what we intended to write and correcting our errors.

This can be handy for clumsy thumbs, but it can be embarrassing when autocorrect guesses wrong.

Rare is the phone booth where you handle a dirty phone and put in a coin to make a call. (Photo: Jefferson Graham)

17. Use a phone booth to make a call

Phone booths are making a comeback in open floorplan offices where there is no privacy. But rare is the phone booth where you handle a dirty phone and put in a coin to make a call. The last holdouts may be an airport or a particular part of town, but even international travelers can usually nab a SIM card the moment they step off the plane. Did you know you can use your cellphone as a walkie-talkie? Here’s how. 

18. Carry cash

I remember my dad telling me, “Always carry a ten dollar bill because you never know when you’ll need it.” In a world of debit cards and P2P apps (person-to-person), we rarely have to carry cash anymore. So what happens when your phone is dead, there’s no one around and all you have is a phone booth? Luckily, most public phones in the U.S. are outfitted with credit card strips.

19. Use a travel agent

Travel agents can be essential for elaborate vacations, but for general flights, services like Kayak and CheapFlights have completely transformed how we book our passage. You can compare hundreds of airlines and agencies in seconds for the best deal. If you’d like to save even more, use Google Flights to find the cheapest airfare. Here are five ways Google Flights can really help you save as long as you’re flexible with your travel schedule.

20. Getting your old checks back from the bank every month

Oh, people still write checks, and physical paychecks are still routine methods of payment, but I doubt this antiquated practice will last much longer. Even depositing checks has become digitized, thanks to ATMs that scan the piece of paper and print a facsimile on your receipt.

That said, online banking does open a whole universe of security risks. If you’re not sure whether your phone’s banking app is secure, there are three critical steps you can take.

Any long lost tech you’d like to add to this list? Drop your ideas to me on Twitter.

What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call Kim’s national radio show and tap or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen to or watch the Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet, television or computer. Or tap or click here for Kim’s free podcasts.

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[bestillandremember]

03-12-19

To be content. A state of peaceful happiness. Our dictionaries simplify a very complex word almost too much. Not only that, but Webster polarizes it, turning it into a concept that our world has cast a shadow over. Adding a negative connotation that allows cynics to deem everything as “less than”. To accept their lives as adequate despite wanting more or better. We go from a cheerfully fulfilled, untroubled, tranquil, serene adjective to settling. Let’s face it. We have lost the value of contentment. Not just the days where we can say “That didn’t suck”. I mean a consistent satisfaction in ourselves, the life we live, and the people in it. Society screams we’re not enough, and we accept it. Mistake opinion for truth. We turn peace into a lack of joy. Equate stability with a void. We chase little highs, short term bursts of bliss, calling it happiness. Hoping that if we commit everything we are to pursuing that euphoria that true happiness will be the result. So why does it all fall short? I’ve only just started thinking about this myself. I realized today that when I’m feeling most unhappy, I’m comparing myself to others. Taking inventory, categorizing wins and losses, and tallying points. Like it’s a game. A game that I’m losing. Youth has this careless energy that encourages those immersed in it to find joy in the things that provide instant pleasure. It’s easy to live in a world of immediate satisfaction as long as you’re benefiting from it. Becoming an adult, “growing up”, forces perspective on it’s victims. Something I’ve learned is that aiming to be content doesn’t mean compromising, it means pursuing balance. It means recognizing what brings you happiness, but more importantly, acknowledging what doesn’t. It requires self awareness and honesty. Harsh, painful truths; because sometimes poison can come in the form of apples. Hurt can be disguised by a pretty face. And choices that feel incredible in the moment, can have lifelong consequences. I certainly don’t have this practice nailed down. It’s an daily commitment. I guess I started asking myself what my definition of joy was. To me, true happiness is something pure and freeing. It’s the feeling that you just can’t put words to. It’s a weightless, liberating emotion that brings light to not just that one moment, but to every one after that. As soon as I started looking through that lens, my “happy” became a long list of short term, instant gratification. Because that’s the world we live in isn’t it? We are inherently impatient. We grew up in the age of technology, with every convenience at our fingertips. Hell, I work for a company that allows you to buy a car at home like you’d order something from Amazon, and see it come down in a giant vending machine like an absurdly expensive Diet Coke. We not only have fast food drive thrus, but we have companies that will deliver the fast food to our homes. Because staying in our cars wasn’t effortless enough. So what’s the trend? The result. What goes up, most come down. A McDouble, fries, and caramel ice cream sundae. The drink that starts to make everything delightfully fuzzy. Throwing a nasty insult out into the world for everyone’s ears but the person you’re speaking about. A tattoo. Returning a smile the insanely cute boy sent you across the bar. Waking up next to someones arms around you. We start high- a full stomach, a grin, strangely exhilarating pain, butterflies, or an evening of not having to think or feel. Then, caught in the most deceivingly tumultuous of waves, we plummet. The burger forms a pit in your stomach. You wake up hungover the next morning, and utter the lie every 20-something will say in their lifetime, “Now I know my limit”. Gossip comes full circle, only this time, it’s about you. People weigh in on the permanence of your decisions and belittle the personal meaning of the art you cherish. That beautiful boy has a one track mind, and has no interest in yours. Then those arms that were once wrapped so tightly around you let go. I pulled these from a long list of examples from my own life, so there is absolutely no judgement if those resonated with anyone else. Please don’t assume that identifying them means I no longer fall victim. To this day, I will never turn down Taco Bell or Freddy’s. I love to have fun with my friends, and while I know limit, I still push it and regret it the next day. While I try my best to justify it or make excuses for myself, I’m human and I speak ill of others. I get tattoos and everyone has an opinion about them. And I give too much of myself to those who don’t intend on deserving it, and as a result- I’m often left alone, with no one but myself to blame. This is not a pity party though- it’s a challenge. I started thinking of things that truly made me happy. Not fleeting joy. Not a second of bliss. Something deep. Something that opens you up to everything good in the world, not just that singular experience. The beautiful thing is that this will look different for everyone. Some examples of mine involve very specific moments. Times in which I felt both separate from and drowning in the world around me in the best way possible.   Climbing up and laying down on my horse and watching the clouds, music blaring in my ears as he grazed. Dozing off in the grass on the most perfect day in April in San Francisco, surrounded by food trucks, dogs, and family. Balsam scented candles, and gardenia perfumes. Watching my older sister marry the love of her life, a man we couldn’t have imagined if we tried. Sunflowers. Not having enough hands to balance the children in Uganda that wanted you to stay so badly that they literally wouldn’t let you go. Wiping away some of the purest tears as you did. Bohemian Rhapsody coming on at a piano bar with my best friends, and knowing every single lyric and screaming them at the top of our lungs. Let’s be honest, music in general is incredibly powerful and magical. The Office, Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Supernatural. Bringing what once were guilty pleasures to the surface, and dressing up for Phoenix Comicon and the Renaissance fair and not caring who sees. Orange blossoms flowering in Phoenix. Traveling and connecting with people and landscapes across the world. Sitting on rooftops at sunset and turning 21 in Italy, dancing around a castle in Germany, and falling asleep to a fire in South Carolina. A funny thing happened even while writing this. My moments of true happiness, that still bring a smile to my face by the way, began to outnumber my disappointments and I felt the hold they have on me lessen. Some might point out the finite, telling me those moments passed too. You’re right. However, what they left me with was permanent and promising. It was a glimpse of what joy is meant to be. It’s not fleeting, and it’s not conditional. It pulls us out of the darkness of settling, and allows us to bask in a light that heals, redeems, and rescues. The truth of it all is that genuine, authentic happiness is not of this world. It’s not something that can be manufactured or perfected on earth. It’s earned through the hope of more. Not sure what this means to anyone else. Today, however, it’s allowed me some peace. (PS- picture is photographed proof of pure happiness for me, share yours!) 

[meepface]

i’ve had a weird day so far and doing this is purely for distraction purposes just ignore me

1) What images do you have set for your desktop/cell phone wallpapers?

home screen

and my lock screen is my gf

2) Have you ever had a crush on a teacher?

oooohhh yeah. one of my first super gay crushes was on my 7th grade english & composition teacher Ms. Lawrence. i just recently unadded her on facebook bc i thought it was weird that i had her added but i’m a lil sad i did it bc that was a big ol phase of my life and i liked her soooo much ya know. i also had a big crush on this dorky geography/tennis/psychology teacher Mr. Whittlesey. he was so cute and goofy i love that man

3) What was your last text message?

i was offering to drive over to visit a friend and bring her comfort food bc her and her fiance just broke up :(

4) What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?

uhh i don’t really think that far ahead but hopefully i am happy and have a stable job and hopefully i’m with the person who i’m planning on spending forever with and i have a nice lil place. maybe i’ve even finally moved out of texas by then

5) If you could be anywhere else right now, where would you be?

honestly the mountains would be really nice. i really miss em and they make me feel really happy n peaceful and idk if my family and i are going to get to go or not this summer

6) What was your coolest Halloween costume?

idk one year i wrote “life” on a shirt and went around handing people lemons all night which was Extra as hell but it was also sort of iconic

7) What was your favorite 90s show?

friends

8) Who was your last kiss?

my gf

9) Have you ever been stood up?

no i don’t believe so

10) Favorite ice cream flavor?

mint chocolate chip

11) Have you been to Las Vegas?

no but my parents have been WITHOUT my brother and i!! i would love to go at least one time though

12) Your favorite pair of shoes?

i like my vans they’re comfy

13) Honestly, have you ever cheated on your significant other?

no, that is one thing i would never do. esp since it was done to me and even though our relationship hadn’t been that serious, it still sucked 

14) What is your favorite fruit?

watermelon and peaches and apricots

15) Have you talked to anyone on tumblr that you could see yourself dating/having sex with? If possible?

honestly? i maybe could’ve seen myself dating a few people here but only if they were here in person with me lol i'm not interested in online relationships at all so

16) Are you into hookups? Short or long term relationships?

long term relationships i ain’t tryna mess around rn

17) Do you smoke? If so, what?

i don’t but i would like to smoke weed at least once in my life just to experience it ya know

18) What do you do to get over your anger?

sing really loudly to music in my car until i am Tired or just vent on my private sideblog

19) Do you believe in God?

i’m sure there’s something out there but who knows what

20) Does the person you’re in love with know it?

yes

21) Favorite position?

laying the fuck down

22) What’s your horoscope sign?

aries

23) Your fears?

settling for less than i deserve or want just bc being happy requires work that seems scary or difficult or would hurt someone, scorpions, the ocean, walking sticks, horses, never being enough for anyone, not finding stability in my life

24) How many pets do you have? What kind?

i have four dogs named Sophie, Millie, Rusty Bob and Joey

25) What never fails to turn you on?

gettin soft kisses on my stomach n hips

26) Your idea of a perfect first date?

we do some sort of fun activity together, we have a nice dinner and maybe chill in our cars after and talk n maybe kiss a bunch depending on how the date went

27) What is something most people don’t know about you?

i can sing kinda well ?? maybe not anymore it’s been a while since i have but i used to be in musical theatre and they wanted me to be a lead role in the musical but i was too much of a pussy and i didn’t

28) What makes you feel the happiest?

having fun bein surrounded by people i love, also when dogs are so happy to see you that their tails wag their whole butt

29) What store do you shop at most often?

probably forever 21 or h&m bc i’m all about affordable clothing that’s semi-cute

30) How do you feel about oral? Giving and/or receiving?

i’m down for both 

31) Do you believe in karma?

sure

32) Are you single?

nope

33) Do you think flowers or candy are a better way to apologize?

“i’m sorry, i understand that this hurt you and i understand why and i will work on not doing this again in the future” followed by actually working on not doing that again in the future is the better way to apologize, actually

34) Are you a good swimmer?

eh i’m okay

35) Coffee or Tea?

coffee

36) Online shopping or shopping in person?

in person 

37) Would you rather be older or younger than your current age?

i kinda like being 20 i think it’s nice to be right in the middle

38) Cats or Dogs?

dogs

39) Are you a competitive person?

in mario kart maybe but generally no

40) Do you believe in aliens?

yes!!!!!!!!!!!!

41) Do you like dancing?

yes but i’m no good at it

42) What kind of music to you listen to?

i like upbeat alternative music generally

43) What is your favorite cartoon character?

eeyore

44) Where are you from?

texas unfortunately

45) Eat at home or eat out?

idk my dad’s home cooked meals have gotten pretttttty good but if i can’t have whatever he’s making then i wanna eat out

46) How much more social are you when you’re drunk?

i’m definitely more talkative and i laugh out loud a lot more

47) What was the last thing you bought for yourself?

i bought myself a meal last night but today i’m gonna go out and buy myself some shorts and a bikini so i’m hyped for that

48) Why do you think your followers follow you?

probably from when i blogged about youtubers back in the day, also i hosted these selfie party things and shared everyone’s selfies to boost their confidence and so many people followed me bc of those

49) How many hours do you sleep at night?

not enough

50) What worries you most about the future?

not finding stability in what i want to do and not doing what i want and what would make me happy just bc it would be challenging

51) If you had a friend that spoke to you the same way you speak to yourself, how long would you be friends?

i’m learnin a whoooole lot of self love so maybe we’d be friends a lil longer than i would’ve been if you’d asked me this in like, february 

52) Are you happy with yourself?

i mean? i’m happy with where i’ve come. definitely could improve but ya know. baby steps

53) What do you wish you didn’t know?

there’s too many things i wish i didn’t know to be honest

54) What big lesson could people learn from your life?

puttin other people first too much only makes you know and love yourself less

55) If you could live in any home on a television series, what would it be?

the loft from New Girl

56) What’s your favorite Website?

runescape 

57) What’s the habit you’re proudest of breaking?

getting rid of this fb account i had and then also this private twitter account i had that i sorta used to vent and also overshare too much lmao

58) What was your most recent trip of more than 50 miles?

i went to NYC before christmas last year!! my family and i are hoping we’ll be able to go to Washington this year 

59) What’s the best bargain you’ve ever found at a garage sale or thrift store?

probably my mug that says “i’m too sexy to be 60″ that i bought for like $2

60) What do you order when you eat Chinese food?

i reaaaaally like kung pao chicken but sometimes i like to get sweet and sour or sesame chicken and then i’ll get wonton soup and eggrolls and white rice and sometimes edamame ooooo my god

61) If you had to be named after one of the 50 states, which would it be?

idaho just so i could call myself a ho all the time

62) If you had to teach a subject to a class, what would it be?

psychology or cinematography

63) Favorite kind of chips?

lays limón chips

64) Favorite kind of sandwich?

i really like the new york italian sandwich from Thundercloud 

65) Which do you use more often, the dictionary or the thesaurus?

dictionary probably??

66) Have you ever been stung by a bee?

nope but one time i was carrying a balloon and a bee came up and stung my balloon and died and i was like oh

67) What’s your favorite form of exercise?

just goin for a walk is nice

68) Are you afraid of heights?

not heights but falling lmao

69) What’s the most memorable class you’ve ever taken?

probably my film class junior year of high school. i was part of the school’s daily announcement team and we made intros for it based off of popular TV shows and we did this whole project about drinking and driving and my teacher was so great and i had a crush on every single boy in that class

70) What’s your favorite breakfast?

i love breakfast tacos

71) Do you like guacamole?

yes

72) Have you ever been in a physical fight?

i punched a girl in kindergarten but she didn’t hit me back and i pushed a kid over in spy camp in like fourth grade but he didn’t fight me back and i shoved a really stoned guy in a pit at a concert two years ago bc he was being a dick but he was too stoned to fight me back so what i’m saying is i sort of have tried to start a fight but nobody has taken one for the team and kicked my ass yet

73) What/who are you thinking about right now?

i’m thinking about how today sorta sucks but i feel like, too sad to go out and hang out with someone and do something about it so i am just going to stay here. maybe i will eat soon if i can get myself out of bed lol

74) Do you like cuddling?

it’s my faaaaavorite

75) Are you holding onto something you need to let go of?

yeah

76) Have you ever experienced one of your biggest fears?

yeah lol 

77) Favorite city you’ve been to?

hmm i really really liked Hood River, Oregon but probably mostly bc of the people i knew there and everything making it special. i loved Columbus, Ohio for that same reason too. i thought Ohio was gorgeous. i also loved Flagstaff, Arizona just because it was beautiful and quaint and i would love to go back

78) Would you break the law to save a family member?

depends on the family member

79) Talk about an embarrassing moment?

just a few weeks ago i was in my summer class and we had about 10 minutes until we got out and it’s like 1 so i was starving and ready for lunch so i was looking at my food options in the area and next thing i knew Siri screams into my quiet classroom “starting route to Raising Cane’s”, and everybody laughed and my teacher was Annoyed. and then when we finally got out i thought everybody had moved on and then the guy who sat next to me, WHO HAD NEVER SPOKEN TO ME ONCE, goes “have fun at Raising Cane’s!”

80) Are there any causes you strongly believe in?

anything to do with women/POC/LGBTQIA+ rights 

81) What’s the worst injury you’ve ever had?

one time i was showin off on my razor scooter while zoomin down a steep hill and i fell off and got scars all over my body and a young girl witnessed it but didn’t say anything or do anything she just left me layin there and crying on the pavement 

82) Favorite day of the week?

thursday is nice

83) Do you consider yourself sexually open minded?

uhh i mean yeah i guess

84) How do you feel about porn?

i feel like it gives you really false expectations about what sex is going to be like when people watch too much of it

85) Which living celebrity would you like to know?

i’d like to be good ol pals with Mamrie Hart still

86) Who was your hottest ex?

my exes were all ugly

87) Do you want/have kids?

i think i would like kids at some point. at least one

88) Has anyone ever told you that they wanted to marry you?

yes

89) Do you get easily distracted?

yes sometimes

90) Ass or titties?

titties

91) What is your favorite word?

serendipity

92) How do you feel about tattoos?

i have three and i love em. go for it pal

93) Do you have any pets?

i have four dogs

94) How tall are you?

5′7

95) How old are you?

20

96) 3 physical features you get complimented on a lot?

my hair, my eyes, my stomach

97) Is there anything you’re really passionate about?

yes i am v passionate about supporting other women!!!! and also about trying to be kind to everyone the most you can be bc i hear so many people spout rude things about people they don’t even know (esp when driving) and it’s like stop and listen to yourself lmao

98) Do you have trust issues?

a little bit but i’m trying to be more open and it hasn’t hurt me yet so

99) Do you believe in love at first sight?

absolutely not. that’s called infatuation

100) What are some words that you live by? Why?

two quotes: “anything that costs your peace is too expensive” and “let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier”.

i think the first one is important because i have a tendency of putting myself through a lot of shit to make other people happy and then i’m really unhappy and it’s just not a good way to live. i am really trying to learn this one. and the second one i think is important because being good to other people is a very important thing and i think you never know when somebody else needs that 

[language-obsession]

In Canto how widespread is this "lazy sounds"/懶音 phenomenon & what's your opinion on it e.g. Letting it just happen or trying to "correct" it? I've heard things like "nobody ever says 我 as ngo or 五 as ng anymore" but idk

AHAAAAAA this is a REALLY REALLY good ask !!!!!! I’ve gotten into some heated discussions with Cantonese speakers about “懶音” but as a (baby) descriptive linguist I just sit back and enjoy the show tbh. Humans have been complaining about the deterioration of human language since the beginning of human history, this is nothing new or special LOL. The change is actually very exciting, because it is a fairly recent shift, with a huge wave of pronunciation differences happening sometime after World War 2. Of course, sound shifts, like any other language shift, happen in layers over time, so the majority of speakers who have merged certain sounds together are still within the younger generation. Also, maybe you’d find it interesting to note that an earlier change occurred sometime in the 1800′s to early 1900′s, where sibilants got depalatalized in words like 張, 昌, 傷, in contrast to its non-palatal counterparts 將, 搶, 相; a distinction that still exists in many Northern Mandarin varieties (the classic zh/z, sh/s, ch/c), but in modern HK Cantonese we would pronounce the sets 張/將, 昌/搶, 傷/相 as zoeng1, coeng1 and soeng1 respectively, with no clear distinction within each set. (although some non-HK varieties have maintained the distinctions - older GZ generations still keep some distinctions I believe, but the younger GZ generation would speak similarly to people in HK)

My speech actually has most of the sound changes, because when I was younger I tried to imitate a HK accent in an attempt to make myself sound more native, so the way my brain interpreted “more HK sounding” was to adapt as many of these sound changes as possible LOL (oddly enough, before I even knew “懶音” was a thing). For example, I do find myself:

deleting ng initials a lot while also adding them where they weren’t originally (愛 oi > ngoi, 眼 ngaan > aan, 銀 ngan > an) 

I have the gwo > go, kwo > ko shift (過 gwo > go, 國 gwok > gok)

sometimes i mix up final k/t (like in 特別 dak bit > dat?k? bit or 突然 dat jin > dak jin - funnily enough, i struggled for a second when i typed out 突然 just now in jyutping lollllll)

and i also have the classic n > l merger (你 nei > lei，奶 naai > laai，男 naam > laam) 

The one change that I don’t find myself doing too much is the final ng > n merger, although I’ve heard this particularly in stereotypical 港女 speech (靚 leng > len, 橙色 caang sik > caan sik/sek, 正 zeng > zen).

One “argument” against sound change in Cantonese that I’ve heard time and time again is that we are going against what the Qieyun or Guangyun rime dictionaries have written down, since we’re losing sound distinctions. and for some highly prescriptivist Cantonese linguists, this is extremely disastrous, because once the change has occurred and a large population of people have adapted to the change, it’s very very difficult to change back the way millions of people speak. But of course, I see absolutely no problem with that, because Sinitic varieties have been changing for THOUSANDS of years. The Qieyun and Guangyun were written in 600 AD AND 1000 AD RESPECTIVELY, why are we prescribing how people should be speaking based off of thousand year old records? That being said, the Qieyun/Guangyun dictionaries are EXTREMELY EXTREMELY important in learning about Chinese phonology and to Sinitic linguistics in general, but I think it’s problematic to assume that somehow we are magically going to maintain all sound distinctions with no losses. That’s why I roll my eyes when I see Youtube videos about 粵語正讀 like “pls spare me from ur overly prescriptivist ways i do nut need u to tell me how to do the spek”

On a relevant note, if Old Chinese had never lost its derivational affixes, the Chinese varieties MIGHT (key word: MIGHT) not even have developed tones, although ofc it would be 100% impossible for a language to remain completely frozen in time for thousands of years, especially if people were actively using it on a daily basis. As well, ever since the rime dictionaries were written down, we have been merging a lot of initial consonants, and we actually lost the entire voiced consonant set in some Sinitic varieties (we have no b, d, g initial consonants in Cantonese OR Mandarin, contrary to popular belief - shocking, I know - although there’s still b, d, and g in Taiwanese Hokkien and Shanghainese for example). Some people act as if the “懶音” of today are some kind of new event started by the Youth of Today™ but it’s been happening since the time of Confucius and even way before that. Humans generally use language creatively and efficiently: we may shorten things, simplify articulation, introduce new sounds, mix things up, etc etc., and that’s all a natural part of language development, which is why old Cantonese linguists who can’t get over these so called “懶音” drain the life out of me LOL ;;; 

I assume you’re a Canto speaker as well, so next time someone tells you to stop speaking with lazy sounds, you can rant about natural language change hahahahhaa 

This is more of an afterthought actually, but some non-HK varieties of Cantonese have already undergone initial ng- dropping and certain vowel changes, even faster than some of the changes in HK and GZ Cantonese !!! On the other hand, some other Guangdong varieties have maintained a lot of sounds (even sounds that we don’t pronounce in HK/GZ Cantonese anymore). Like in 中山 and 珠海 Cantonese, they still pronounce words like 魚，驗，研，語 with an ng- initial (which is actually closer to the reconstructed Middle Chinese pronunciations), even though we’ve reduced it to a y- initial in HK/GZ Cantonese, although no one would even try to argue that /ŋ-/ > /j-/ is a detrimental sound change to Cantonese.

tl;dr - im hella salty about extreme cantonese prescriptivists and i’m excited to be part of a modern sound change !!! speak however you want bc it literally doesn’t matter !!! language is cool and dont be afraid to embrace change !!! 

Edit: I have been informed that TW Hokkien does not have a d-initial I AM A GOOF, I should’ve double checked that oop. Thanks @bessely for pointing that out though!! (Also YES I WAS GONNA MENTION THE HAKKA STUFF TOO but I don’t know enough about it to talk about it confidently hehe)

[jewelwriter]

Beyond Level 1 Presents: Pokémon Part 7 (Sun & Moon)

In this new age of Pokémon, it’s time to say Alola to the world of… a messed up family line.  And a painfully long mess we get to play though in a way.

 Yea… this review isn’t as clean cut as the others and I have had time to play it since Christmas (to evade being on a hype railroad and to try to understand the game where I see it) and I’m glad that I did just that, waited.  My review might not be what everyone wants but then again I’m asking a lot of people to listen to me on this for the count of a few things.  First, sure this is a game of beauty but visuals are objective and I’ll cover this more in flow but when some basics are lost at the expense of others, I worry.  Second, I’m doing another play though to see if having someone different helps but I will say that I’ll never go for the “FIGHTING” type that we got.  AND I WILL DEFEND THIS TO THE END THAT LITTEN’S FINAL EVOLUTION IS A FIGHTING TYPE!  Pardon there. I kind of still don’t see how come people are willing to ignore what the context is on that Pokémon.  And third I will be warning of spoilers where it is due, likely in story and bosses.  Thanks in advance and I’ll let rip my review that goes beyond level 1 of the game Pokémon Sun!

 Control – (Silver)

This is kind of new and yet comfy at the same time. The controls for the over world are ALL linked to the stick to give you a free spot with the D-pad to link up with HM heroes.  That’s what I’m calling them.  Throughout this generation I might as well call them that.  You got running speed fright from the start and can even have a bit of fun. In battle either works which is a bleeping joy and touch helps speed up who needs a change or patch up.  OF course a bigger problem that doesn’t come to mind is how easy it is to miss the bottom screen.  Say high to the thing that ate up all the swift tap buttons to try and save time going to menus and hello to the X button which will house more than 6 but 12 options.  The first is the usual stuff like your Pokedex, your Pokémon, your luggage, your Save, your options, and lastly the Passport which is your trainer ID.  Then the new stuff comes up featuring Pokémon Refresh (the simplified and gutted Pokémon Amie), Pokémon Pelago (your Pokémon Daycare for those who are boxed up with nothing to do.), Festival Plaza (your interaction hub), QR scan (allowing you to SEE all Pokémon in the digital dictionary), Quick Link for local play, and Battle video…which I haven’t gotten anything yet but would go for it if I get some video recordings.  I clearly enjoy how there’s a lot to take in but yet feel it stepped backwards.  So sorry the Silver rating is needed for this section.

Story – (Silver/Gold)

Spoiler Warning take effect here!

A normal game of Pokémon has a story that is stolen by a crazy FAMILY!  Let’s see… the first you met stolen a legendary to be and yet it was also a caring gal that would likely not to be a trainer that we’d see.  And get such a taste of the new challenges of the story where we see a gang wanting to jack things up and an organization that wants to care for those that were hurt...which flipped into a rescue mission and finding out that in the saviors is a really TWISTED b!tc# and she’s the reason her son and daughter ran from the place.  By the GODS what a way to push story into the spotlight!  Also with how she insults the player char in a way kind of hurts for those that are dedicated to a team.  It felt like she was aiming to the competitive players which I would get a laugh about so I feel it’s silly.  And the final battle with the evil President is a bit annoying since her team is “BUFFED” thanks to her ultra-beast infusion though I did use a bit of a smart rear tactic of having a defense jumper up front to make it harder to fight and slow them down with Bulldozer which helps to make a strong combo when it is clear they are unable to get their first move in.  And also a moment about the Gang Leader Gozma (I’ll take him down, take him down and never let up all bout town!) with the stupid wrapping of him and his crew could have did more but gods at least they were more entertaining until I found out that HE was in on the stupid plan of “perfection” and on that I am feeling like the island challenge was a roadblock to try to get to the end of the story and also reach the goal of the Pokémon league.  Though the big surprise to the end is that who is the big battle is a great mix up for the final battle of the story as it can change it up... by going against more than just one obvious char.  The professor, the electric trial captain, Gozma’s Poisonous gal, even a Kahuna and a KID FROM ROUTE 1 WANT YOUR CHAMPION BELT!  That earned this gold barely but I’m also giving silver due to the story to get to that point.

Spoiler Warning ends at this point!

Content – (Bronze)(Metal)

As we know, things might not make it back in a new gen and this is one of them, a favorite of mine: Rotation Battles. Though this in and of itself doesn’t mean it’s at all bad.  It has given us a Pokémon Pelago to allow us grind levels and raise mon how you want (I so far am happy using the egg hatching and be able to Raise happiness for Mon which really require it.  I have only level 2 for the training and spa so I’m trying to earn…. 200+ Beans x2 for the last bits I got all the island updates as of Febuary.) in which is handy for those that play calmly and want to have help while playing the game.  THAT being said, the mini games are entirely… nonexistent here that it makes me sad because there’s mostly NOTHING to really enjoy and Your only means of coinage gain is either by having your Pokémon explore their cave in the Pokémon Pelago or take down trainers and the daily Pukumuku flinging.  It makes for a bad feeling for those that want to play something more to connect to the Pokémon world.  SURE it is stream lined but it will leave someone empty.  This category has BARELY escaped being classified as metal instead of Bronze but it could have EASILY been that for a veteran Pokémon gamer  I’ve rethought this and went with giving this Metal instead for even a veteran trainer would get bored of all the none events in game once you did them all.

Flow – (Silver)

For once I have to talk about the graphics since they kind of bog the game down in a way.  With trainers now kept on screen during battle you are likely slowing the game down and makes one groan at how some battles can take a long time and could even make you feel trouble arriving in the worst of ways: by costing someone more time to play by tournament standings.  For the casual player or someone who is going into doubles/Multi/Battle Royale, it will be a nightmare.  Especially when waiting likely two minutes for the turn to end. Have fun with some of that and how often the story might interrupt your exploration if you need to do an island challenge.  Speaking of, I find them silly in a sense but they do mostly involve battling.  Trial 1: Battle 3 locals and their totem, Trial 2: Take down a fish 3 times with the last one being a Totem fight, Trial 3: Answer and battle 3 answers with the last one being the totem, Trial 4: Find the items and defend yourself be ready for the totem Pokémon, Trial 5:  Audio quizzing and fight 4 Pokémon to turn the lights on when you see the totem Pokémon, Trial 6: Photography with ghost Pokémon and you end up finding how unhealthy the Totem Pokémon is obsessed with Pikachu.  And Trial 7 is actually a remix of the trial you did in the DEMO of the game. The only familiar feel of former gameplay I obtained came from the four Grand Trials, they felt like real gym leaders to me and I got to enjoy those battles.  Especially when it is not an SOS Pokémon come in.  With certain gamers then it’ll be a pain but for others it is a required wait to get though the game in certain manners.

Bosses – (Bronze/Silver)

Spoiler Warning take effect here!

Is it odd that I feel like the totem Pokémon, the very thing Game Freak and the Pokémon Company highlighted in the game’s advertisement were not the real boss characters?  Yea, they aren’t.  IF I added them they would be a brought the game down to a bronze here.  The saving grace were the Grand trials, Team Skull and the large twist before you get to the last island (Poni island and no friendship isn’t magic there) and after you gotten though all the trials of Poni Island. The favorite for this gamer was the final battle of the first Elite Four.  To me it felt like the REAL rival was hidden in the back and trying to be sure you reach the top to see where you stand with you and your Pokémon.  And for once it will not happen often as you’ll have to defend your belt from as mentioned before your true rival who you only would fight here, various chars that you took on like Lille’s Brother, Hau, and even the former Team Skull babysitter and as said before, a current Kahuna.  If one were to add those together and not the totems, you’d earn the rank of Silver solidly at the least.  Well that and spanking the President’s behind while she had her team jacked up.

Spoiler Warning ends at this point!

Overall – (Bronze/Silver)

On the personal side I’d go give this a Bronze since it means that Pokémon has started to slip and in no way can I sugar it to myself.  For a competitive scene I’d keep with Gen six for a while longer though happy times trying to fight in the new gen without having a big issue and I’ll be the stick in the mud to say Pokémon isn’t going onto the Switch as a mainline game but if a new handheld is revealed one can hope but it is for sure isn’t the Switch as I am using the logic that I got from watching for ages to get a good guess.

[-|-|-]

I almost can’t wait for this generation to be corrected.

[unixcommerce]

9 Ways to Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

How do you define your comfort zone? The dictionary says it’s the place where “you feel comfortable and your abilities are not being tested.” In a second definition, the comfort zone is the place where “you don’t have to do anything new or different.”

We’ve all heard the saying to get out of your comfort zone. But what does that mean? It sounds like an easy phrase to throw around, but sometimes advice is easier to give than to take.

Luckily I’ve learned some things about the freedom that comes from trying something new and breaking out of boxes and restrictions — sometimes self-imposed. I’d like to share the things that I’ve learned that may have seemed uncomfortable at first, but brought me joy, excitement and opportunities.

Embracing new experiences can do more that enrich your life and business career. Those new experiences could change your life and the direction of your career.

How to Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

A long time ago, I was the assistant manager of a warehouse. It was a job that paid well and had a 9-to-5 schedule with no weekend work. My boss was a very nice man who treated all employees very well.

The company was sold and we all lost our jobs.

It was one of the best things that ever happened to me.

Since college, I’d worked in jobs that involved warehousing, shipping and receiving. I was good at it. But I can’t say that I ever really liked it. I used the severance pay to buy a backpack and other gear, then spent three months hiking. Can you say, “get out of comfort zone”? And after lots of planning, I almost didn’t go. I got offered another job (another warehouse/shipping job).

What to do? Take the job? Or step off into the woods? As I agonized over the decision, here’s what my best friend said to me, “How are you going to feel if you don’t?”

So, there’s your barometer. Is there something new you’ve always wanted to try, a place you’ve always wanted to visit? How does it feel NOT to do anything about it?

Ready? Here are some ideas for getting out of your comfort zone and achieving new things.

1. Make Changes to Your Daily Routine

This is an easy one because it teems with opportunities to change. Leave early, park a few blocks from work and take a walk.

Walking -for pleasure – is kind of a lost art, rediscovered during the pandemic. Shelter in place, no nonessential travel – ugh. But no one said you couldn’t take a walk, in fact, there are few better ways to practice social distancing. A short walk is a nice way to spend a lunch break.

Do you always watch the morning and evening newscasts, at specified times? Skip it. Use the time to read a book or listen to music. Try a Book on Tape or Language Learning Tape during your commute.

2. Delegate/Mentor

This one may make you uncomfortable. Why you can’t assign some of your work to an employee, right? Wouldn’t it be better to do it yourself? What if the employee doesn’t do it right? What if it causes a problem?

You’ll never know if employees can handle a new task unless you let them try. The reward may be twofold – TWO people getting out of their comfort zone! The employee also steps up and gets to try something new. As a manager or team leader, you may find that delegating work is something that has the “fear factor” attached to it.

So, before you totally let go of the reins, delegate the work as you mentor that employee. In other words, keep a close eye on things that first time, as you are outside of your comfort zone. Start small with easy tasks, and add more challenges to the employees as you begin to feel comfortable with their skills.

3. Learn Something New

I have this very precious Fender folk guitar that came along with me each time I moved. Of course, I hadn’t played it for about 35 years. Then one day I saw that a local art center was offering lessons. Impulsively, I enrolled. It was awesome to reconnect with that side of me.

Learning to play a musical instrument is a great option for a new experience, but there are lots more. Ride a horse, build a model plane or car, take a class at a local college. Try an unfamiliar spot for a weekend getaway or vacation.

4. One Nice Thing/Volunteer

In my neighborhood, I couldn’t help but notice the changes being made to a formerly forlorn looking, plain house. A couple of times I saw a young couple working in the yard, where they’d added flower beds and a new walkway to the door.

I learned their names and got one of those blank greeting cards. I wrote them a little note, just saying that it was nice to see the house being transformed. It was just a couple of lines, and I didn’t sign it. I felt good about doing that and hoped they enjoyed the praise.

Try to do one nice thing for someone every day. This should not be a secret – it feels really good to do something for another person. It’s best if you can do it anonymously. You can also spend some of your free time volunteering, even if it’s only in a small way. You could visit someone at a nursing home or walk dogs at an animal shelter. Help clean up a town park or cemetery.

I’d make a guess that every nonprofit organization wishes it had more volunteers, and everyone has an email address. Don’t think you have any applicable skills? You may be surprised. Forget about being uncomfortable and make contact.

5. Physical Change, Mental Change

To get out of your comfort zone, you may make a physical change such as embarking on a fitness program and diet plan (with the guidance of a physician). Sometimes that leap from the comfort zone is a big one – take the first step by making an appointment with your physician and seeking advice.

Physical exercise can be a boost to your mental health. For another improvement to your mental health, take time out from news, noise and electronics by unplugging. Even if you only take a one hour shut down, the peace you gain is worth the disconnect. You may find you like this so much, you’ll make a point of doing it every day.

6. Face Fear

I always tossed and turned the night before speech class. I dreaded it. The teacher had this favorite exercise that I loathed.

She would write topics on little scraps of paper and put the scraps in a hat. She would stroll the aisles and stop next to a student, who would pick a piece of paper. If you were the victim, I mean, student, you would then walk to the front of the class, look at your topic, and give a three-minute speech.

And then a funny thing started happening as I got out of my comfortable zone three days a week. Well, I got used to it. I found that comfort zones were funny things – the things that you feared became things that were at home in the comfort zone.

Public speaking is something that most of us dread. But every time I got up in front of the class, I got better at it. I still get nervous if I have to speak in front of a large group, but facing the fear of public speaking in that comparatively small (30 students) class laid the groundwork. If the thought of speaking to a group makes your knees knock, start small.

Are there other fears that stop you from getting out of your comfortzone? One way to address these fears is to make lists, The Worst That Could Happen and The Best That Could Happen.

As my wise friend said long ago, “How are you going to feel if you don’t?” Focus on the best things that can happen if you get to face your fear. Accept that the worst things that can happen may not be all that bad.

7. Get Out There

Have you tried an unusual recipe? Crafted your thoughts about the season, or an event from your day? Redecorated your office, home or backyard?

Get it out there for public response! Posting a personal accomplishment or event can be daunting, if you’re afraid of negative response. Take the plunge and get feedback, good and bad. Every “like” will make you smile.

8. Up Your Game

Did you ever hear the advice about how (if you play tennis) you should always play tennis with somehow who is a better player than you are? That’s true in many areas of our lives and careers.

Think about where you want to be in your career. You may already know, or be aware of, people who are in that place. If you want to be successful like them, shouldn’t you hang with successful people?

To get where you want to be, reach out to someone you respect. The easiest way may be through getting the person’s email address. Ask if you can schedule a short meeting, to get feedback and advice on your current path.

9. Single Step

I used to work with a guy who, every day at lunch, talked about how all he wanted was a cabin in the woods. To my knowledge, he never did anything about that wish. For example, he didn’t start saving $10 or $25 a week toward that goal.

It’s said that the longest journey starts with a single step, and this is true. People may have a goal of running a marathon, but since that distance is so daunting, they don’t start.

If you have a goal and break it down into doable segments, that you then start doing, your attitude will change. You’ll be able to think positively about this goal, because you are on the move toward it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

I’ve often been asked simple questions about working outside your comfort zone, and here some answers.

What is the definition of comfort zone?

A comfort zone is a place where you feel comfortable and your abilities are not being tested. In other words, comfort zones are comfortable, safe ways of existing and working, usually in a set routine.

Is it hard to leave your comfort zone?

Yes, it can be hard to leave your comfort zone. Fear keeps us frozen, but like anything, fear becomes a habit. Figure out the worst that can happen, and the best that can happen. Focus on those best things, and it will be easier to escape that zone comfort.

What’s wrong with staying in your comfort zone?

There’s nothing wrong with accepting that you like being comfortable and there’s a time and place for that. But do you also like excitement? If you want to do things in a new way, you’re going to want to step outside your self-imposed box.

Be not afraid. Lean into what life has to offer. Go for it!

Image: Depositphotos.com

This article, “9 Ways to Get Out of Your Comfort Zone” was first published on Small Business Trends

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Expertise: A tale of two meanings

I have recently become confused by how people use the word ‘expertise’. I’ll first tell you a story about the meaning I am used to and then a story about the meaning I am not so used to and conclude by asking what to do about this concept.

‘Expertise’ in ordinary language use

Staff at the School of Sociology and Social Policy where I ‘work’, were recently sent an email asking them to update their ‘areas of expertise’. This happens at a regular basis so that people interested in a doing a PhD know who could supervise them, for journalists to find the right people to speak to and for policy makers to find experts to help them.

Just for fun, let’s imagine a university where academics have a wide range of expertise, from pre-Babylonian musicology, to post-diluvial hydrodynamics, to the iconography of unicorns and the ecology of dragons. The latter type of expertise would allow scientists to distinguish between dragons, wyverns and lindworms for example, which is a surely a fantastic skill to have in these apocalyptic times.

I was dreaming about all this after first reading a twitter conversation initiated by Dorothy Bishop and then reading a 1976 article on the ecology of dragons, published in the journal Nature by Robert May, former President of the Royal Society, who died this year … (followed by an article in 2015 on the effects of climate change on dragons, called ‘Here be dragons’)…. I was also reading an obituary about a female mathematician, Ann Mitchell, who had been involved in Bletchley Park.

As everybody knows, during the second world war, experts in Germany had built the enigma machine, while experts in the UK were needed to decipher the messages it produced. These code-breakers came from mathematics to cryptography, to linguistics/philology, to ancient history, to chess, to philately, to classics, to logic, to engineering… and much more. Experts in all these ‘areas of expertise’ helped decipher the enigma messages.

This is what I always understood the words experts and expertise to mean. People who are really good at something or other in a specific area of knowledge and/or practice, including science in its broadest sense.

When looking at recent discussions about experts and expertise, it became obvious to me that I was not quite au fait with the current meaning of expertise though.

‘Expertise’ in the OED

So, I first looked up ‘expertise’ in the Oxford English Dictionary, which defined it as “(a) Expert opinion or knowledge, often obtained through the action of submitting a matter to, and its consideration by, experts; an expert’s appraisal, valuation, or report.  (b) The quality or state of being expert; skill or expertness in a particular branch of study or sport.” I realised that I had focused on (b) and forgotten about (a). So what about (a)?

‘Expertise’ as a jargon term

I then saw a recent tweet by Massimiliano Simons, a philosopher of science, where he drew quite a strict distinction between science and expertise and said the “latter is about policy: requires clearcut yes/no decisions on short term (vs endless, indecisiveness as acceptable)”. I had, of course, come across this distinction before, but never really thought more deeply about it. Now I began to wonder. I asked Massimiliano where this distinction came from and he gave a very helpful answer. This contained a reference to a book on the crisis of expertise by Gil Eyal and a graph from that book. That graph which is very interesting, as it corresponds to a graph I had seen on Google when looking up the meaning of expertise.

Eyal’s graph is derived from Google Ngram viewer based on Google books and it shows that the word ‘expertise’ lay dormant for a long time and then quite suddenly started to be used with increasing frequency after the 1960s. As Massimiliano has pointed out in his tweet: “Expertise is a very recent term”. He also said that it “came into being to capture the contemporary use of science for policy (and the institutionalisation of that process).” We’ll get back to that.

To reproduce Eyal’s graph (in her book on p. 13), I experimented with NGram viewer and, as you can see, ‘expertise’ rose to prominence after the Second World War, while ‘expert’ chugged along more sedately, as well as ‘scientist’, which I added to the list, while I left out ‘profession’. ‘Expert’ had a little surge in the 1990s, probably because of rising interest in expert systems.

When I looked at some of the books that brought about this sudden uptick in use of the word ‘expertise’, I concluded that we seem to be dealing with a post-war expansion of use in specific domains (administration, regulation, judicial contexts) accompanied by a narrowing of meaning to, perhaps, ‘ability to provide an expert assessment or report’ – related to meaning (a) in the OED. Eyal speculates (and you have to read her book to get the whole story) that expertise rose in use because at that time it became necessary and useful to distinguish between experts and those who are not, while beforehand that seemed to be more self-evident.

Now, forty years after the concept emerged, a new wave started and that was a wave of studies studying expertise. This wave began, I think around the turn of the millennium with a famous 2002 article by Harry Collins and Robert Evans entitled “The Third Wave of Science Studies: Studies of Expertise and Experience”. And again twenty years after that we have Eyal’s Crisis of Expertise, a book on The Philosophy of Expertise, another on The Death of Expertise and, of course, also the work on this topic by my colleague Reiner Grundmann.

To summarise all that work would take us too far. Let us just say with Torbjørn Gundersen (who wrote a very interesting article about the roles of scientist and expert) that many STS scholars would probably say: “Whereas the aim of scientific research is typically to produce new knowledge through the use of scientific method for evaluation and dissemination in internal settings, the aim of the expert is to provide policymakers and the public with relevant and applicable knowledge that can premise political reasoning and deliberation.” In this view (which is only one of many, as stressed by Gundersen), the role of scientists as researchers (contributing to knowledge production) is separated from the role of scientists as experts (contributing to policy making)..

That chimes with what I found in a book symposium about Eyal’s book: “For Eyal, expertise is something that takes place at the intersection of science and action, and is fundamentally a problem of the state.”

‘Expertise’ (and ‘experts’) in the wild: Here be dragons

Having now established that there are two meanings of expertise that don’t really overlap, namely the ordinary language one and the STS language one, I looked back at that famous quote from Michael Gove where he said (in March 2016) that the British people had enough of experts. The distinction between the two meanings of expertise makes it easier to understand what he was saying. I think he was using the jargon term ‘expert’ to refer to all sorts of ‘elitist’ government advisors, including the Lord High Chancellor (see video clip), but not scientists as such.

Then I came across another quote, this time only understandable in the context of Covid-19 not Brexit and against the backdrop of the Gove quote. Gary Lineker had observed that yet again (June 2020) a politician had taken the daily press conference about the pandemic without advisors being present. He tweeted: “Seems the scientists are going the way of experts….to that silent place far away from government.” So, Lineker seems to think that the Chief Scientific Advisor and the Chief Medical Advisor (and other advisors) are ‘scientists’ not experts, although according to the policy jargon definition of experts they should be called experts not scientists, as they are scientific advisors.

To come back to the beginning: Let’s imagine academics who can distinguish expertly between a dragon, a wyvern and a lindworm. In the ordinary language view, they would be experts and work within an ‘area of expertise’, but in the STS jargon view they would not be experts and would not have expertise because their (scientific) knowledge and understanding is not (yet) policy-relevant and cannot contribute to policy making. That would be a bit weird to me – but perhaps I am just confused.

It seems that in the wild the distinctions drawn by experts in expertise between scientists and experts and between science and expertise are difficult to uphold … I wonder what this means for public understanding of science and expertise and for public trust or distrust in scientists and experts?

Image: Pixabay

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