#including and especially when it's through less than honorable means

[bittersweetblasphemy]

i would not last in some fantasy big bad scenario where they have a harem thing going on. my ass will straight up see the obviously scared and battered concubines and go "not me tho id be their favorite."

like

Bitch.

[psychic-refugee]

Got a question for you. About these rumors of Jenna removing her name from executive producer of WSSF. Thoughts on that?

From my research it’s mixed results. Wiki still has her listed as an EP but IMDB does not list her as EP for WSSF, but does for Wednesday. In all honesty, I don’t ever recall if it was ever on IMDB. So, I can’t say for sure if it not being on IMDB means anything.

I do not see any news outlets reporting that she has been removed as EP.

So overall I don’t think much because I don’t know much. lol

My first questions are where do the rumors originate? Are they from a credible source and/or are we corroborating it with IMDB? Are we simply inferring it because of IMDB? Or is this just speculation from her fans who seem to be obsessed with this narrative that she hates certain people and loves certain others?

Entertainment law is not my subject matter expertise, but I can speculate as a fan.

I think some context to the history of WSSF is needed for context/basis of my speculation.

WSSF is a small indie movie that has gone through delays because of Jenna and Percy’s commitments to Wednesday promo, COVID, and a very lengthy strike.

Jenna is also a much bigger star than when she first signed onto the movie and became EP.

My understanding (which admittedly is very little) of an EP, besides investing money, the title can come with certain responsibilities/commitments beyond being the star. This can include post-production responsibilities such as sales, marketing, and distribution. (Last visited 29/9/24 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Film_producer)

To try to cut off some less than flattering accusations towards Jenna or her costar:

She can’t divorce herself from the movie entirely. Even with removing herself as EP, she’s still the star. Her name is all over it. Her face is all over it. There is no getting around the fact she was part of it. If she is removing herself as EP, I do not believe distancing herself from the film itself is the reason. It would be a waste of money to break a contract if that was the reason because it’d be pointless.

Her invested money in it is already spent. The movie has been made and it’s premiered. There is no recouping it if she takes her name off it via EP. I do not believe it’s a money issue.

It really depends on what her actual contract says, but two things that are left as an EP are residuals and responsibilities. She still has the possibility to make money from streaming residuals. More so as an EP and a star than just the star.

My gut instinct says she would break the EP agreement because she doesn’t have the bandwidth to honor her responsibilities as EP and doesn’t believe any possible residuals is worth her time any longer.

Besides Wednesday and BJBJ taking obvious precedent over WSSF, I wouldn’t be surprised if she had other things in the works. I would totally believe that she has other big-ticket projects in the works that could easily pay to break her EP contract to get her out of it as part of her compensation package. If not, then she has certainly made several pretty pennies in the last two years that I think she could afford to break the contract herself. Again, WSSF is an indie movie and I'd be surprised if it had severe harsh monetary penalties.

Besides COVID and the strike, her co-star had unfortunate, baseless rumours spread about him. While I don’t think it’s the sole reason Jenna considered while de-prioritizing WSSF, it would be naive of me to think it wasn’t considered at all. This is another thing that works against potential residual numbers.

All of it together has really worked against the success of the film, and I think Jenna just doesn’t think it’s a worthwhile endeavor any longer. At least not to spend time and effort promoting a movie that basically missed its chance due to issues outside of its control.

It sucks, but from a completely business view, I totally get it and support it.

Lets also be honest, her fans, especially the Wenclairs, aren’t exactly tethered to reality. They do not support her projects where she is heterosexual. They constantly criticize her acting and her male leads when she has to portray a heterosexual.

Her fans are so bad that she feels she can’t debut ANY relationship in real life. (Vanity Fair, 6 August 2024).

I don’t think her “fans” understand when they keep harping on her “girl kisser energy” or “she has no chemistry with men” is a criticism of her acting and does not make it seem they think she’s a good actress. From their rancid behaviour, its clear they are more attracted to her physically than they admire her acting skills.

It’s really insulting, but they’re too narcissistic to ever actual think on their behaviour.

At bottom, I think Jenna sees the writing on the wall that WSSF for many reasons not her or anyone who worked on the film’s fault, missed its chance.

If she does remove herself as EP, then I think she will do it with the utmost respect and professionalism that she can. I don’t think she will ever speak poorly of the film or anyone who worked on the film.

All we will be able to do is speculate, but only Jenna and those she’s working with, will ever know the truth.

[yousaydisco]

we've all heard of Kim as an android but what if HARRY was the android?

What if the four months before Martinaise was him defecting/deviating and coming to realize that he wants more than to be the robot cop that he was made to be and him dressing in Disco clothes is his first attempt in expressing an interest in something, especially because it's completely antithetical to what everyone else at the Precinct likes? What if his lashing out and increasingly aggressive behavior is him battling with his code while also trying to suppress that anything has changed at all?

And then the fateful day comes when they arrive to solve The Hanged Man case and Harry pushes everyone away because they're talking about sending him in to get a reboot because they've noticed that he's different and he's like. I'm not going to be replaced by another version of me, I'll die as I am currently before I let that happen. But just like in the canon of the game he doesn't successfully go through with it and he wakes up with a damaged memory chip and having to relearn everything.

When he meets Kim downstairs on that first day Harry is told that Kim was expecting other officers and one support android and Harry is like. well. I'm all you have, I guess, I don't know what you're talking about. What's an android?

There's two directions to go here: Harry wakes up and forgets EVERYTHING, including that he is an android, and so he ends up doing and saying weird things in front of Kim because he just thinks that everyone more or less operates how he does. He doesn't eat because he doesn't need to and he licks more things than just the rum countertops so he can run an analyze of it (though nothing ever comes up useful as he is in desperate need for repairs so he ends up just seeming like he licks things for his own enjoyment). Kim would eventually figure out that he's an android with this route but he would never bring it up, either because he has a secret soft spot for androids in general or he sincerely just likes Harry that much that he doesn't want to remind him of his inhumanity.

OR: Harry forgets everything he's ever processed but still knows that he is an android, a busted one at that, and he has to keep it a secret so he doesn't get decommissioned. But he doesn't have access to any memory banks or any servers with information like other cop androids do, probably because he would alert someone watching out for his specific model to come back online, so he's really flying blind out there. There's an extra layer of tragedy since this means he's outright lying to Kim the entire game and at first he thinks he needs to since Kim, dedicated to following the rules of the RCM and being professional, would be honor-bound to report Harry as a defective android that is operating without his human partner and is besmirching the RCM. Except as they get closer Harry starts to feel more and more guilty about lying to Kim and then the tribunal comes and Harry is injured and he's bleeding inhuman blood and Kim is still trying to save him and Harry is like

"you don't have to work so hard to keep me alive, they will just replace me."

and before Kim can really process that Harry saves him and then passes out and Kim still stays awake with his concussion keeping Harry alive, but instead of an infection the challenge is getting Harry's components fixed when he doesn't have access to ANY android parts and he can't get any without alerting SOMEONE so he's trying to make do with like. GASP what if he uses pieces of the Kineema to fix Harry? Nothing major that would make it undriveable (idk enough about cars to justify this honestly) but it would be this huge emotional thing.

And then Harry comes back online and hes's like. Oh my god I'm still? Me? I haven't been wiped clean? and Kim is like "of course you're still you. It was only a gunshot wound, after all." and that's the last that they mention it.

(they can't keep it up forever since Kim cannot directly contradict anyone from the 41st when they know that Harry is an android, but he can defend him against accusations of being defective by citing all the moments where he showed that he's within perfect working order. It's the closest he can get to preventing Harry from being sent for a reboot).

[celticcrossanon]

Both of them (C&C) seem to be driven in part or in whole by negative emotions towards the idea of Prince William in power - envy and/or jealousy on the part of the King, and fear on the part of the Queen (I can feel her fear as I write this. I can not stress this strongly enough - she is terrified of Prince William having any Kingly powers).

Wow, Celta, interesting reading! Camilla’s fear of William? Some thoughts on this:

- William won’t be cruel or unkind to Camilla “IF” KC dies before her. She will be comfortably ensconced somewhere in the country,.

- William WILL, most probably, exclude Camilla from any “working royal” events once he accedes (as W will “retire” Camilla from working royal duties). That means a peripheral role for her, if any at all, at his coronation, no TTC, no balcony appearances, etc. As a Dowager Queen with no children in the LoS, she’ll be out of the royal loop. She will virtually disappear.

- Catherine will have exclusive access to the Royal Vault, not Camilla any longer. So Cam better wear alllllllll the tiaras and jewels now (as she’s been doing lol), because she isn’t getting much after KC’s death. She can consider this karma for her/KC’s petty attention-mongering vis a vis tiaras at their coronation….maybe she’ll even have to order a bespoke beaded “headpiece” for W’s coronation, instead of a tiara ;)

- William will posthumously re-bestow his mother, Diana’s, HRH. Diana will be publicly referred to/included in W’s reign…both as his mother, the mother of the current King, and as the grandmother of the future King George. 

- William will do Diana, the UK, and us all a favor and commission a befittingly beautiful statue of Diana, while storing that current hideous one of her in KP’s basement.

- William will honor the Middletons during his reign, elevating their role while drastically reducing Camilla’s. Perhaps W will bestow a much-deserved title on the self-effacing Michael Middleton (and thus on Carole as well). 

If any, much less all, of this comes to pass, Camilla does indeed have much to “fear” from William. Her historical legacy will be miniscule, barely more than a footnote. Her garden will look great, though, with all the attention she’ll be able to devote to it!

*

Hi Nonny,

Some of your comments made me laugh, especially about the statue. :)

I am not sure what, exactly, Camilla was afraid of happening. The energy was like a bolt of ice that speared through me and I just froze in fear and was unable to do anything for a moment. It is that sort of intense fear that I felt. Whether that fear is rational is another question. Queen Camilla may be worrying about nothing. What she is so scared about may never some to pass. I don’t know. I just felt this overwhelming and crippling fear and I couldn’t tell much more about it. It could be related to Camilla losing something/s that she thinks she had earnt, but I am really not sure at all as it was hard to get any details except for the fear, and that came through very clearly. :)

I think that Prince William will do right by Queen Camilla when William becomes king. The issue facing her as Dowager Queen that I can see is the one you have picked up on above - Camilla is not the mother of the next king, so she doesn’t really have a role in the monarchy after her husband dies. 

[mbti-notes]

Anon wrote: Hello ! I have a couple issues I wish to improve and want your advice:

Firstly I have this out of sync behaviour. Especially with my mom where I become immature like a teenage brat and say things which I dont necessarily feel are aligned with how I truely feel, like "that person did me wrong blabla they are this and that " although I dont feel the grudges . Its almost as if I am possesed. Could it be that its because I didnt get enough mirroring for her growing up and we were not talking when I was in my preteen? Is this a Fe issue?

Another issue I have is my indecessiveness in life, no matter how brave I try to be I get stuck in dilemmas and they suck my soul out. There would have been less consequences in choosing than all the rabit holes I have to go down to. I feel like all my ambitions have come to dust with my adhd and other issues that are a blockage and I am just feeling lost and say and do stupid things so I can ignore my failures.

Ps. Could you please tag this INFJblackpearl so I can come back and see your answer.Thank you :)

----------------------

(1) I have already written in detail about the complexities of parent-child relationships, so I suggest you search through the site index and relevant tags for previous articles.

(2) There are many possible factors that can contribute to indecisiveness. You must have some understanding of what's causing a problem before you can find the right solution, and it doesn't sound like you have much insight into it, so deeper reflection is required. This means all I can do is merely speculate about what the underlying factors might be based on what is generally common for the personality type.

For INFJs, one common factor is an irrational fear of failure that often goes along with unhealthy perfectionism. This might manifest as having unrealistic expectations (Ni) and/or holding oneself to unreasonable standards that stem from social pressures (Fe). Thus, the remedy would be to nurture a more realistic and/or a more compassionate and forgiving mindset.

Another common factor is being out of touch with one's own needs, preferences, and values. It's hard to make firm decisions when you don't know what you need, don't know what you want, don't know what you like, and/or don't know what you value most. Denigration or denial of oneself is a common sign of unhealthy Fe. The remedy would be to improve your self-esteem and self-worth and take steps to know and honor yourself better.

Another common factor is lack of critical thinking skills. Good critical thinking includes being able to explore, analyze, and evaluate your options in a more thorough, systematic, and objective manner. Feeling inundated with or being too easily swayed by too much information and not knowing how to draw sound conclusions is a symptom of having poorly developed judging functions. There are lots of online and book resources for improving critical thinking.

[helly-watermelonsmellinfellon]

I need y'all to understand that this quest and the following event sucked ass, and the best parts were Boothill and the hot but shady director.

I don't know what it is but the dry patches of HSR that don't really push the main story of the game are way worse than the dry patches of Genshin. Penacony was so good for the first 2 updates of it but anything afterward(including the finale of the main quest) has just been draining, repetitive, and annoying. I'd rather go back to Belabog and I can't stand that place.

As for the new character... It's so interesting how lame she is but how the 'hold them accountable' crowd is nowhere to be seen. They've helped make her so unlikable on top of how HSR refuses to give anyone who is playable melanin. How many more characters with designs or lore that mirror those of ethnic groups irl, are going to be pasty white?

I saw someone complaining about lacking representation in Genshin, and were especially mad cuz Mavuika isn't brown, but then salivating over Rappa. They got mad because I asked why they weren't offended that the pale character is a bad rapper and how, once again, HSR has added no brown characters to the cast since release and won't be adding any anytime soon based on leaks.

Something about a pale-skinned woman rapping badly and using Japanese terms somewhat incorrectly depending on localization, but also having an 'urban' style and interest in a type of graffiti that originated in the Bronx doesn't sit well with me. All the opportunity to make her not white and they dropped the ball on it quite hard.

Her character was obnoxious, and I couldn't stand her talking. Voice actress was great, but the writing was God awful.

I picked every mean option I could. I did not want to be there. I did not like the environment or the music this time. The characters were really grating on my nerves. The only people I listened to all the way through were Boothill and the sussy director guy. And March, oddly enough. Her VA has grown on me, especially since she's entered Genshin, and I like her portrayal of Citlali as a character.

Something I've been thinking about recently, that I think I finally have come to understand, is that being tricked into helping people in Star Rail is far more annoying than it is in Genshin. In Genshin, it's mostly just like NPCs who actually can't really do anything without elemental powers or martial arts training, but in Star Rail, it's literally Pathstriders and people in high positions of power who seem incapable of doing anything on their own(or are just lazy).

And the bigger problem is that the MC doesn't really feel appreciated. Genshin's Traveler gets credit for everything even when they set the record straight about who was involved, but in Star Rail, it feels like the Trailblazer is given another useless title and then people are less grateful for them doing all the work, and more interested in trying to use a connection to them for their own benefit.

"It's the Shareholder!" followed by something greedy. "It's the honored guest!" followed by something greedy. "It's the hero!" followed by something greedy. "It's the Nameless!" followed by something greedy.

The one person who feels like they genuinely appreciate the MC is Jing Yuan. He's still thanking them like a year later and including them in events and stuff. And comes to help if there's a problem even when he'd rather be sleeping.

Sumeru is so special in Genshin because almost the entire cast of characters from there, are connected. They all know each other to some extent, and even when the Traveler isn't there, they have regular interactions with each other. Their stories and their lives continue on even when the Traveler isn't present, and they have new things to share whenever the Traveler comes back. The Sumeru crew-meru feel like friends/family. They feel like people with real relationships and lives. I get a similar feeling from Mondstadt's crew as well.

HSR just doesn't have that feeling yet. It's been a year and a half, and we're 4 unique 'worlds' in, and it is still missing something.

[thedragonagelesbian]

Sosiel frowned as he worked, hands and pages smudged with charcoal from a whole hour of trying--and failing--to sketch the Knight Commander. Kyrith'enderax was... mystifying. If the dhampir had any fangs to speak of, he hid them well behind the perfect line of his mouth, drawn as straight and tight as the rest of him, rigid from the base of his skull to the tips of his toes. Whether it was a kind of rigor mortis or simply his disposition, Sosiel didn't know, but he struggled to capture it in his sketches. Occasionally, he could glimpse the beauty of it. The lines of Kyrith'enderax's body like the shadow of an aspen cast in winter, harsh but elegant.

But this morning, his sketches looked more like rows of soldiers in formation, strict and sad.

There were other drawings at the margins. A paladin of the Sunrise Order with hollow eyes. A gargoyle's bloodied wing. The cruel silhouette of a hellknight's helm.

He was studying Kyrith'enderax's shoulders-- one perpetually covered in some kind of frostbitten magic, both bared to the world despite the cold as he disassembled the camp. Tying up his bedroll, he caught sight of Sosiel. They made eye contact for a moment--Sosiel couldn't imagine trying to paint his eyes, amber and lacquered like rosin--before Kyrith'enderax glanced down at the book.

"You keep drawing. Even in the field."

"I would be rather limited if I only sketched what I saw in the Crusade camp," Sosiel replied. "The world around us is so unstable. Especially now, during this war. A friend's smile, the curve of a tree, the glow of a fire-- if we do not preserve them, the rare moments of beauty we still have will be lost in the flow of time." Kyrith'enderax kept staring at the sketchbook, as if he could see the drawings through the cover, and with a small, defensive cough, Sosiel added, "And I promise, Commander, it does not distract from my duties."

"Why would I care if it did?"

The question was matter-of-fact, so Sosiel answered honestly: "A Hellknight would think it frivolous."

"I am not a Hellknight."

"You've inquired twice now about becoming one."

Kyrith'enderax paused, eyes flickering every which way before landing at some point decidedly next to but not on Sosiel's face. "Your creativity is..." he ran his tongue over his bottom lip before shaking his head. "Admirable. I cannot see this world as you do, it is still too new to me, but your ability to find beauty in it and document it is beautiful in its own right. I am honored to be included in that project."

And there it was, the reason why Sosiel had been scribbling nonstop since he woke up, and a few hours the night before too, trying to square two different versions of Kyrith'enderax in his head: the man of stilted but undeniable kindness who had comforted him as he had buried his friends twice over, and the cold commander who had professed interest in an organization as wretched as the Hellknights.

"Permission to speak freely?"

"You do not need to ask for it."

"I do not wish to overstep my bounds, but..." Sosiel flipped through his sketchbook to a drawing from last night: the curve of Kyrith'enderax's mouth, caught in a rare moment of downturn. "I saw something pass over you when the paralictor ordered Yaker to be punished for abandoning his post. You seemed upset."

And again now, a tightening around the corners as Kyrith'enderax ducked his head. "How observant."

"It is as much a part of being a cleric as it of being an artist." Sosiel offered him a smile, though he didn't know if Kyrith'enderax could see it. "We need not talk about it if you do not want to; I only mean to say... that you do not strike me as cruel."

"You have not known me for long."

"Am I wrong?"

Kyrith'enderax reached up to touch his shoulder, digging his nails into the magic frozen there. "I hope that you are not. And I hope that you understand that there is nothing more odious to me than the abuse of authority... but hope counts for less than discipline. I am a dhampir. If I am not cruel, it is only because I have mastered myself."

As he spoke, Sosiel found his charcoal pencil in his hand again, and Kyrith'enderax's shoulder came to life underneath it-- not as a mere straight line but as tension, tautness, breaking before bending.

"Is that what you seek among the Hellknights? Discipline? Mastery?"

"Yes." For as cold as the rest of him was, Kyrith'enderax's eyes burned, flashing to Sosiel's and darting away again, sparks dancing in the cave. "Though... perhaps not with them. I have inured myself to much; that should not include the suffering of others."

Sosiel let out a breath he hadn't known he had been holding. "Oh, I must admit I am relieved to hear that. I believe that you have more hope than you give yourself credit for-- it would be a shame to watch the Hellknights snuff it out."

"Thank you." Kyrith'enderax's cheeks darkened, a flush of life underneath the ice. "That means more to me than you could know."

"Of course, friend."

"...May I see them? The, ah, drawings you've done of me?"

"Oh..." Now it was Sosiel's turn to glance away. "There's nothing to look at yet. This isn't even a draft, more a series of random sketches. The slope of your neck, the curve of your lip, your gestures..." Kyrith'enderax's blush deepened, and Sosiel felt a bit warm in the face too. "It's not much to look at."

"Do not be ashamed. There are some artists whose sketches I prefer to their finished works. The tactility of rough, unrefined, instinctive artistry is enticing." The last word curled up from the usual rasping of his voice into something almost like a purr. Quickly, Kyrith'enderax coughed and continued, "But if you do not wish to share, I will not push the matter. In fact, I have distracted you enough from your work. I will not bother you anymore."

Before Sosiel could assure him that it wasn't a bother, Kyrith'enderax had stood and darted off. With a soft sigh, Sosiel turned to a clean page and began sketching what the Knight Commander might look like smiling.

[heyfriendalissa]

Spiritual Health: A Bridge Between Science, Medicine, and the Cosmos

In the age of artificial intelligence, data-driven solutions, and groundbreaking advancements in medicine, it is easy to view human health as a purely mechanical phenomenon—a system of inputs and outputs governed by biology and chemistry. However, this approach risks reducing the complexity of human existence to equations and algorithms, ignoring the profound spiritual dimensions that shape our lives. Spiritual health is not a relic of the past but an integral part of understanding who we are, why we suffer, and how we heal. To separate God and the cosmos from health, science, and medicine is to fragment the unity of existence. In a world moving ever faster toward technological dominance, we must call for a reawakening—a unity that brings together science and spirituality to honor the whole human being.

What is Spiritual Health?

Spiritual health is the recognition of our deeper connection to life, meaning, and purpose. It is the invisible thread that ties us to something greater than ourselves—whether one calls it God, the universe, or a divine energy. This connection is not limited to religious practice; it is reflected in the moments of awe we experience when staring at a star-filled sky, in the peace found in meditation, and in the comfort derived from acts of love and compassion.

Unlike physical or mental health, spiritual health is less tangible but no less vital. It encompasses a sense of belonging, the pursuit of purpose, and the alignment of one’s actions with higher values. Studies have shown that individuals with a sense of spiritual well-being tend to be more resilient, recover more quickly from illness, and cope better with life’s challenges. It is as though the soul’s health reverberates through the mind and body, amplifying healing and fostering harmony.

The Interconnectedness of God, the Cosmos, and Health

The cosmos, a vast and intricate expanse that includes galaxies, stars, and the very atoms that make up our bodies, speaks to an unfathomable intelligence. Whether viewed through the lens of science or faith, the universe reflects patterns of connection and interdependence. From the synchronized orbits of planets to the symbiotic relationships in nature, every aspect of existence appears to be woven into a cohesive whole. How can we, as humans—beings of consciousness and spirit—be anything less than part of this grand design?

Science explores the mechanics of the universe, uncovering its laws and unveiling its mysteries. Religion and spirituality, meanwhile, provide the language to ask deeper questions: Why are we here? What is the purpose of suffering? How do we find meaning in the face of mortality? These are questions that health, science, and medicine inevitably encounter, especially in moments of crisis. A patient facing a life-altering diagnosis does not simply seek a cure; they yearn for understanding, hope, and connection. This is where science and spirituality must meet, for one cannot address the entirety of the human experience without the other.

The Role of Spirituality in Modern Medicine

Modern medicine has made astounding progress in curing disease, extending life, and alleviating suffering. Technologies such as artificial intelligence and precision medicine have enabled us to treat individuals based on their unique genetic makeup and biomarkers. Yet, as the tools of medicine become more sophisticated, there is a growing risk of dehumanization. Patients can become data points, diagnoses can feel impersonal, and healing can seem transactional.

This is where spirituality reenters the picture, grounding medicine in compassion and humanity. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and prayer have already shown measurable benefits in reducing stress, improving mental health, and even accelerating physical recovery. Chaplaincy programs in hospitals provide comfort and guidance to patients wrestling with existential concerns. By integrating spirituality into clinical care, healthcare providers can address not only the physical but also the emotional and existential dimensions of healing.

Science and Spirituality: Two Sides of the Same Coin

Far from being at odds, science and spirituality are complementary. Science, at its best, is a quest for understanding—unveiling the mechanics of life and the cosmos. Spirituality, on the other hand, seeks to make sense of existence by exploring its meaning. Together, they provide a fuller picture of the human experience.

Consider this: the same technology that maps neural activity in the brain can also confirm the transformative effects of meditation and prayer. Quantum physics, which delves into the fundamental nature of reality, echoes themes found in ancient spiritual traditions—the interconnectedness of all things and the mysterious interplay of energy and matter. Science and spirituality, though different in methodology, share a profound goal: to uncover truth and illuminate the human condition.

The Call for Unity

The need for unity between science and spirituality is more urgent than ever. We are entering a new era, defined by artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and biohacking. These advancements promise to reshape humanity, but they also bring ethical, existential, and spiritual questions to the forefront. How do we ensure that technological progress serves humanity’s highest good? How do we preserve the sanctity of the human spirit in an age of automation? The answers lie not in abandoning science or spirituality but in integrating them.

Healing must be reimagined as a multidimensional process. Just as a doctor uses diagnostic tools to uncover physical ailments, so must they recognize the spiritual wounds that often accompany illness. Patients are not simply biological systems to be repaired; they are whole beings, with stories, dreams, fears, and faiths. By embracing this truth, medicine can transcend its limitations and become a true art of healing.

A Vision for the Future

Imagine a healthcare system where data and AI are not cold instruments but compassionate allies, guided by the wisdom of spirituality. Imagine a world where scientists and theologians collaborate, seeking answers that honor both the seen and unseen dimensions of life. Imagine patients feeling not only treated but also deeply understood and valued as human beings.

In this vision, the artificial and the divine coexist, not as adversaries but as partners. AI provides the precision, while spirituality offers the purpose. Together, they create a symphony of care that touches not only the body but also the mind and soul.

The Poignant Call to Action

As we stand on the threshold of this new era, let us remember that the ultimate purpose of progress is not to divide but to unite. Science and spirituality are not separate roads but intertwined paths leading toward the same horizon—a deeper understanding of life and our place within it.

The cosmos calls us to wonder; the human spirit calls us to love. Let us answer both calls with humility and courage. Let us build a world where healing means more than curing, where technology serves humanity, and where every soul is seen in its fullness. In this merging of science and the sacred, we will discover the true essence of what it means to be whole. And in this wholeness, perhaps, we will finally glimpse the divine.

[magicaguajiro]

Caribbean Folk Saints and Mighty Dead: José Martí

Known as The Apostle of Cuban Independence, José Martí was a poet as well as one of Cuba’s most well known Mambises (revolutionaries) and martyrs. He was born January 28th, 1853 and died in battle May 19th, 1895. His influence on Cuban identity and nationalism are still seen today.

A wall devoted to Martí and Cuban Independence, located at El Meson de Pepe restaurant in Cayo Hueso (Key West).

Any child who grew up in Cuba or with roots reaching back to Cuban Independence will recognize the face of José Martí. His iconic writings have been turned into songs like “Guantanamera”, serving as patriotic anthems of the Cuban consciousness. I know as a child my grandfather told us many times about war heroes like Martí and Hatuey. Both figures are important to Cuba, but also especially important to the Indigenous peoples who have elevated them.

Born a criollo man in the Havana province, Martí was a lifelong activist and writer. His writing on liberation and abolition were vital to these movements in Cuba but also globally. He spent much of his life traveling around before returning to Cuba. He started several newspapers and publications, most famously one simply known as “Patria” where he would share useful information and news that favored the revolutionary cause. Martí was also prolific in his writings on Indigenous Peoples of the whole world, being quoted saying “Until all Indigenous People are liberated, none of us are free”. It was also Martí’s efforts in the East of Cuba that convinced the Indigenous Cubans contracted by the Spanish to instead fight for the revolution alongside their families with the promise of sovereignty and respect.

He founded the Cuban Revolutionary Party in Key West on January 5th, 1892. Thats right, here in Florida. He also worked for the independence cause in Ybor City, planning with former 10 Years War veterans. It’s important to remember at the time of his birth, Florida had not even been a state for a decade. This land was instrumental in the Cuban Revolution from Spain.

His death in the Battle of Dos Rios was the final blow to the Spaniards social hold over the island. It united both revolutionary and loyalist Cubans under a common threat, because Martí along with his lifelong Afro-Cuban Revolutionary partner Juan Gualberto Gómez represented every Cuban who had been beaten by the Spanish system. Though the war did not end for several more years with the intervention of the U.S., this moment is when many consider the war decided. He was buried in Santiago de Cuba.

Martí’s exhibit at the same location

VENERATION

For this post, I wanted to take my time and really allow my relationship with El Apóstol to develop and lead me where it led. I can confidently say, after more than six months under his direct tutelage and veneration that I have learned so many new skills and made new connections all which correspond to his more liberating aspects.

He is a spirit of Love at his core. Love for his Land and People but also for the world as a whole. Don’t mistake this for meaning he is a gentle spirit though. He is tough, firm and forceful. He is strong and revolution is essential to his being, whether that be politically or simply intellectually.

I have been honoring him through pilgrimages to sites sacred to him, including Cayo Hueso (Key West) and Ybor in Tampa. I also light white candles in his name, often when writing or creating content especially. I find he enjoys the things I share, so devoting it to him in his honor is one of my favorite offerings. He does also enjoy Tabaco. Be mindful though, working with him may inspire boldness in your choices and language. I know personally I have become less tolerant of colonizer BS on my page since connecting deeper with Martí.

When I am needing inspiration, or seeking guidance or a new avenue of connection as it relates to anything regarding the Land or my ancestry in Cuba, which is a majority of my practice. I also find reading his works aloud and in silence both help to call him in as well as inspire me in moments of blockage. I will include some of his writings so you can get an idea of the words that shaped the Revolution.

Bendicones 🕯️

I Cultivate A White Rose

I have a white rose to tend

In July as in January;

I give it to the true friend

Who offers his frank hand to me.

And for the cruel one whose blows

Break the heart by which I live,

Thistle nor thorn do I give:

For him, too, I have a white rose.

Cultivo Una Rosa Blanca...

Cultivo una rosa blanca,

En julio como en enero,

Para el amigo sincero

Que me da su mano franca.

Y para el cruel que me arranca

El corazón con que vivo,

Cardo ni oruga cultivo:

Cultivo la rosa blanca.

[the-lunar-library]

TO THE RAVENS

To many who live on the Moon, the matriarchal dog-worshipping Dog Heads are barbarians, but Lykedon thrives in the cosmopolitan luxury of the lunar capital – and in the palace of the mysterious King Endymion no less. His exact job isn't on official record, but superficially he's known as the royal librarian, and his knowledge of both lunar and Earthborn literature is second to none. A careful and canny man, Lykedon isn't easily surprised. But when a famous prophet rolls into his city on a strange mission, even Lykedon finds himself surprised – and more than a little amused.

I've talked a lot about how my research ended up shaping the book's setting and placing realistic limitations on the characters. But the Dog Heads? They were a chance to let loose and have fun, so that made Lykedon a fun character to write. I think he's intriguing, a character I've only scratched the surface of. He's very confident and secure, but not at all loud about it. He'll let people insult him, but he almost always retains the upper hand. That can't have always been true. Where did he start in life? Why did he leave his homeland behind? What about his voracious passion for literature? Even as the author, I don't know the answers to all these questions. I think any crucial information about Lykedon would only come drip by drip, and largely by his own choice.

His name is pretty straightforward – Lykedon, “wolf-like”; Dog Heads love incorporating dogs and wolves and foxes and their different attributes into their names. In my write-up about Dog Heads, I talked about how the Greeks and Romans of the time would have had stories of dog-headed men. Though Dog Heads aren't werewolves by any means, they believe they're descended from Artemis' hunting pack, who were honored and turned into humans. The Greeks and Romans had werewolves in their myths, at least humans who were changed into wolves. As far as I know, the myths themselves don't link werewolves to the Moon, but the Greek language does link wolves and nighttime – an ancient Greek word for “twilight” is lykophos, literally “wolf light”. Also, Lucian situates his own “dog-faced men” on the Moon.

As for Lykedon's design, I wanted to incorporate the flame-haired men Lucian writes of. Probably not all Dog Head men dye their hair in fire colors, especially once they leave their homeland. I never give a reason for it, but it probably relates to something in their mythology. One of my sources discussed a (quite cruel) Roman religious ceremony involving tying firebrands to foxes' tails and releasing them to run around. No one really knows why this custom came about. (It reminds me of things like foxfire and kitsune, so I wonder if there's some deeper, very basic symbol at play.) The point is, I think it's fair, when world-building, to include things that exist without explanation. Similarly, Lykedon's silver facial tattoos are mysterious, as the designs are used all across the Moon in Artemis worship, but they're so old no one's entirely sure what they originally meant. Their design is made up, but one of my sources talked about how some Thracians in ancient Greece had silver facial tattoos. (Sadly, no word on what they depicted.)

I like having these things unexplained. If I ever write more about the Dog Heads, it gives me room to experiment and develop their customs more – or leave them open and mysterious.

Through his smarts and excellent people skills, Lykedon has very successfully made his way into Kynthian-Roman culture, but he's proud of his heritage and still does the whole Dog Head thing: fiery hair and a dog-shaped headdress. More often he wears his casual headdress, which includes a small dog skull with false inset eyes. His fancy one is painted wood with dog's teeth and tassels along the back. Its design was inspired by two ancient Greek drinking cups.

Despite his startling hair and headdress, there's something pleasant, optimistic, solid, even a little warm about Lykedon. I would say don't trust it. Lykedon is certainly capable of forming close relationships, caring about others, even loving others. But he's an intelligent, well-connected, and highly maneuvering man, so... don't always trust it.

[cryopathiic-a]

POWER, SAFELY DEFIED, TOUCHES ITS DOWNFALL

It was a calamity, a brewing storm that wished to be unleashed. Nakime place was secure, a heavy sigh leaving them to be spared the wrath of their lord and master. Their creator was not pleased, with lack of results, diminishing returns upon the investment of their blood. The chosen had stalled, staggering and fallen, the system, for centuries has been struck at by their enemies, a thousand times it had remained standing tall within the land, but the lower levels have at last crumbled under the weight of expectations, simple and easy to be obtained for those who had been chosen –

“Lord Doma –”

Their appearance, was out of nowhere, they were just standing right behind him. Head lowered down, to bow to him. The laws clear, demons could slaughter and kill all that they wish, they can turn upon their brethren at a moments notice and devour them and steal their power, but this one, was a well guarded secret, only shared with the upper moons. Not to be touched, not to be bothered, not a single word to be passed to them, that would be an insult. The great eye of there lord, the voice of there master, the one who protects them more, than all the others combined, without rank, station, titles, yet she stands higher than them all combined –

“Your presence has been requested my lord –”

Did he know, did he feel it, the end and downfall of the lower moons. There cries and attempts to bargain with their creator, or rather foolishly, to merely try and flee from the wrath of the one who had brought them into the world and gifted them every single advantage they needed to fulfill their roles. Yet nothing, for centuries the lower moons, offered nothing to there master, but everything to the enemy, a means to test slayers, experience gathered, the measuring stick and final selection to who will become a pillar and who will not - that was not the purpose of them, to be used for the enemy, to become stronger.

“Immediately, it would be unwise, to stall my lord –” As they offered the mighty lord this at least, for his station and titles, she did not pluck him out of thin air, less he had been in the middle of a sermon. “They are at the entertainment district to clear there head –” With a small bow of there head, they stepped back to allow them to finish what they were in the middle of, time was limited, there master would not wait, especially now considering —

“My lord –” A small hesitation, should they tell them, offer this to them, they where to be seen and not heard, only speaking when necessary, only doing what they were told, and speaking to their lord to offer advice. “I advise caution, a warning to you –” That it would be unwise to test the patience of their master, it would be suidice, if lower moons have been killed, what was stopping.

An upper moon being killed to ease the pain and suffering.

Knees sunk in plush pink; sinking deeper with the hunch of broad shoulders. The pointy tips of lavender claws threatened his chin with a scratch every so often, held before his chest, pressed together firmly. Dim light shone through the imposing mural of the Sun God, casting a half-glare, half-smile to the faithful beneath; primarily, the Lord Founder himself as his cadence murmured the lead of their joined condolence.

❝ Reverently, I prostrate with my body, speech, and mind; I present clouds of every type of offering, actual and imagined; I declare all my negative actions accumulated since the beginning of time—❞

Lord Dōma.

❝ ... And rejoice in the merit of all holy and ordinary beings. ❞

Mundane voices joined to accompany the hymn. It was as melodic as it was imposing; music and prayer combined. Some whimpered, without knowing why. The frozen lotus' palms lowered ever so slightly, prismatic hues moving to meet the depicted cat-like slits that had cast punishment and gifted pleasure to so many; himself included.

Nakime-chan? What honor do I possibly owe this intermission to?

His voice is bubbly through the connection, nothing like the tranquil mutter that passes through the humans like the caress of a relieving summer breeze. One minute, he was in that room, surrounded by his followers' warm breaths and joined heartbeats, the other, he was on the floorboards of the Infinity Castle, prostrated before his master's favored guard dog. Upper Two straightened up, sitting on his knees with a bewildered expression, hands dropping to rest idly on his lap as he listened; prudently.

Of course he had felt it. When one powerful demon dies, it can be felt, to those who open their minds to the collective and reach out through the blood bond shared amongst their kin; so, when several died at once... It would be safe to say there was a reason for the pensive atmosphere in tonight's evening sermon. All but one; that he could still feel, pulsating with fresh blood — the Dreamweaver had been chosen, as the last lower moon alive.

Even he had the sense to know what that meant.

She was furious.

My lord, I advise caution, a warning to you...

❝ Awh, you worry about me, Nakime? That's so sweet of you~ ❞ A boyish smile would not give away his true thoughts on the matter. This would require a practiced silver tongue to untangle; and soothe the mess that was their master's hearts at that rate. Only a demon that was truly pure and enlightened could carry through with such a task; a demon that held no animosity, that reached out to the poor and suffering to offer solace; and to those who have yet to achieve nirvana, he would deliver it.

❝ Don't fret, I'll be fine! I'm sure Master just needs a compassionate ear, right now, more than ever; and as you know, I'm a great listener... so if anything's bothering you at some point— ❞ A playful swat of his hand, waving her worries away with a chuckle - yet, measured, as he was soon returned to the very same space from which she contacted him, a parallel dimension that was not even perceptible to puny human eyes. The sudden strum of her biwa had him facing that unyielding glare of the mural once more, and all effervescence was killed on the spot, his expression turning to a cold deadpan.

Please, remain until the end of cyclic existence...

❝ Tenzin. ❞ The name was uttered softly. One of the acolytes clad in ceremonial pulu with a yellow cloth apron lifted his bald head. It was an older man, elder than most. The Lord Founder wore a pensive furrowed brow and pout when addressing him. ❝ Finish the sermon for me, will you? I don't feel so good. ❞ They were already on their feet, towering to full height.

" My Lord- "

❝ Do as I ask, please. No questions. ❞ Their clawed hand left a gentle caress over the human's chest as they brushed past him; and almost seemed to walk through him, with a prismatic gaze seeming lost as it swam in the nothingness in the distance — heading for a direction only they could know.

... and turn the wheel of Dharma for living beings...

The aura of colors; a nauseating, hypnotizing sight — a portal, through which to step into the other; the unknown that awaited him in that disheveled room of some prestigious entertainment house. A long time ago, Upper Two would roam these streets for spoils, wearing a different mark in his eye. And he had lavished the various houses and known them all by name, once, but that was some time back. Now, he could only hope whatever awaited him at the other side of that door would not be heralding his own demise; because the Goddess' whims are mercurial, and even he would know better than to challenge her wrath.

A slender palm placed on the door to offer one, no two knocks, just in case, and wait for permission to enter; clad in human clothing so as not to attract suspicion from the oiran whispering at the hallways; a long kimono adorned in golden lotuses and gilded with a silken sash. And upon entering, to take in the sight, looking only a little lost as his mind begun to make that first assessment of just how dire the situation could be, he slid the door shut and dropped to his knees gracefully, the kimono sprawling around his prostrated form.

❝ Konbanwa, Master Muzan. ❞ A honeyed tone. Their palms connected, sprawled between their knees as they sat, and avoided those blazing plum reds for once; knowing better than to challenge her gaze at such a moment. ❝ I extend my condolences. How may I service you, my Lord? ❞

I dedicate my own merits and those of all others to the great enlightenment.

[jeju-tangerine]

my top 10 kpop songs of 2023 :-)

after putting much too much thought and time into it, i have finally sorted out and written a list of my favorite kpop releases of 2023 ^_^ this was such a great year for kpop in my opinion, for full albums especially, and i hope 2024 will live up! in creating this, i decided to only include 1 song per artist, so as not to have the whole list be just one group. the songs often stand as representations of the entire albums, though. now here's my list :-)

a very special honorable mention goes to: "WOULD YOU RUN - Original Version" by TRI.BE, "LEFT RIGHT" by XG, "welcome to MY world" by aespa, and "loving me" by fifty-fifty (released in 2022 but i only got into it in 2023, but it's a masterpiece and deserves a shoutout)

NOW!!

10. super shy - new jeans i'll tell you one simple trick to ensure that you never grow to dislike a song from it being overplayed on tiktok: don't use tiktok. "supershy" is THE song of my summer. it's light, it's breezy, it's fun, and its repetiteveness only lends itself to it being so incredibly catchy. despite their questionable background as a group, newjeans and their team keep delivering music that feels like a breath of fresh air in the k-pop landscape, and i'm glad for it.

9. i want that - g-idle g-idle dominated this year with "queencard", which is not on MY personal list of favorites, but i would never deny its impact. however, though "i want that" was less successful, it hit so much harder for me - probably because of its actually enjoyable and catchy english lyrics (especially the verses), the dark undertones of the song, the dark… well, overtones, of the mv, and the masterful combination of the intense beat and the sweet bridge, nailed by miyeon's lovely vocals.

8. bye my neverland - kiss of life the initial soft, sugary, fairytale atmosphere of the song is soon elevated when a distant sound of a bell leads us through the prechorus right into an explosive chorus - not unlike the clock striking midnight and forcing cinderella to leave the ball. the emotional impact of this entry for me lies not really in its musical qualities, but in them being combined with the lyrics. "bye my neverland" is titled perfectly. it's an ode to making hard choices and to refusing to stay in your comfort zone, even if it seems crazy to throw it away - and at the same time, the song acknowledges that doing this is difficult. there's a sense of deep melancholy in it, but also comfort and hope. i guess that's growing up.

7. bouncy (k-hot chilli peppers) - ateez i am not a noise girlie at all, but i could not escape the siren song of ateez this year. "bouncy" goes so damn hard it's kind of ridiculous. every part is a joy to listen to, the members' deliveries are energetic and full of genuine passion - or sometimes nonchalant, when they should be -, and their live performances impressed me immensely. i might have to look more into their discography after this. "bouncy" doesn't need much description - it speaks for itself.

6. but sometimes - boynextdoor this is FUN music. i mean this more for this song than any other on this list: every single line, every sentence is deeply enjoyable and memorable. you know how some songs are nice and have pretty choruses, but when you try to remember what the verses sound like, you somehow just can't recall much? this is the opposite of that. such an incredibly fun song structure - and it's not even especially unusual. still, it's skillfully written in a way that seems to follow the phases one goes through after a breakup (or at least a teenager would). i also adore the choreography, and i'll be paying a lot of attention to boynextdoor from now on. especially jaehyun and his frankly insane charisma on stage.

5. mine - ive ive was my top artist on spotify this year, and for a good reason. in my humble opinion, they DOMINATED 2023. their first full album was absolutely killer, there is not a song on there that i dislike and "i am" is a masterpiece of a title track. however, because this is a deeply subjective list, i decided to go with "mine" as a representation of ive on here. it's my favorite track on the album, it was my 3rd most listened to song of the year as well and i love it so much. it scratches such a specific itch in my brain with its rhythmical tempo and dreamy soundscape. this song just sounds like what love feels like.

4. menow - fromis9 another perfect album of 2023 was in fact fromis' "unlock my heart". it seems like fromis have a fully realized musical identity now, and it's lovely to experience. there are better songs on the album, namely "attitude" (man that goes crazy), but "#menow" is still the heart of it, in my opinion. it feels genuine, fresh but cozy. there is a deep yearning for living life authentically to the song, and authenticity is one of the very main themes of the full album as well. "attitude" is phenomenal, but it lacks that wonderful casual girl-next-door vibe that fromis' body of work has to it, in my opinion. "#menow" captures it so well - while still being extremely fun! that prechorus? come on. other standouts on the album: "bring it on", "what i want", "eye contact".

3. rising - tripleS now here is my number 1 most listened to song of 2023. tripleS have released some super interesting-sounding stuff. i'm a big fan of "new look", and of "girls' capitalism" too, despite the title, but "rising" dominated. that second verse absolutely kills. i also love the first title-drop in the first verse, for some reason. the song is really catchy and fun, the mv looks kind of silly but gets you in the right mood, and i'm especially enamored with the last 2 lines. some songs have weak or underwhelming endings, but this is the opposite of that - i LOVE the very ending. what more do i need to say about tripleS? they were literally so right when they said la la la la.

2. farewell neverland - txt maybe i'm cheesy for it but i cannot resist a good acoustic guitar, especially when it goes as hard as it does in "farewell neverland". such a beautiful, beautiful song. deeply emotional, deeply mournful, DEEPLY atmospheric. AND it was the culmination of a gorgeous EP, which also featured such bangers as "sugar rush ride", "devil by the window" and "tinnitus". i don't know how to express how much i love this song. it's tragic, it's regretful, it's intense but measured. it sounds stunning and it is aging like a fine wine.

underwater - red velvet it's so difficult to pick just one song off a red velvet album. "chill kill" is perfection, everything i could expect from my favorite group and more. they never disappoint - they just keep surprising me with their music's longevity instead. among flawless bsides, "underwater" managed to slightly stand out. from first listen i felt there was something transcendent about the song, so it is here representing red velvet on my list proudly. there are few tracks that embody the 'velvet' of red velvet as completely as this one does. sensual, ethereal, a tiny bit dangerous. "underwater" gets you simultaneously submerged in the deep end and levitating in the air. i won't stand for ignoring "chill kill" the title track, though - it's perfect as well. the more positive-sounding melodies elevate the uncanny mood and really make it a classic red velvet title. and, okay - let me talk about the mv quickly. killer. literally. so creepy, so disturbing, so hopeful, so artfully made. and the vocals on the entire album are stunning, by the way. one other bside standout for me: "nightmare" - it literally has a musical structure which corresponds to the experience of having a nightmare and freaking out and then waking up and realizing it's all okay and it was just a dream. my GOD!!!! i come back to their music all the time, and the reason is simple: noone else does it like red velvet. they are a one of a kind kpop group and i'm so thankful for them.

thanks to anyone who's read this and have a great rest of 2024 guyz ^___^

[rabbitcruiser]

Soup Swap Day

There's nothing better than a warm bowl of homemade soup on a chilly day! Swap your soup with friends for a fun way to mix up your meals.

Baby, it’s cold outside, but inside it’s nice and warm – especially when you can enjoy a hearty bowl of delicious, hot soup. Fill up a stockpot, tureen or giant crock because it’s time to celebrate Soup Swap Day!

History of Soup Swap Day

Soups have been part of human history for thousands of years, which makes sense because they are such a delicious and easy way to make a meal out of a wide variety of items that can simmer together into something amazingly tasty.

Today’s soup recipes offer a huge range of different styles, from thin bouillons to thick chowders and everything in between. The featured flavors can be anything from vegetables to seafood, or from meat to beans with a base that is creamy, tomato-y or something else entirely.

And, of course, soup recipes can probably be traced back and found in almost any cultural heritage. Whether it’s an egg drop soup from Chinese cuisine or a minestrone that comes through Italian roots, or traditional Jewish Matzo ball soup, the options are almost endless!

Now, Soup Swap Day is here to allow January cooking to be just a bit more fun. Instead of just making soup for the family and then either freezing or eating the leftovers until they are gone, Soup Swap Day allows for sharing with a neighbor or friend. This gives each household two different kinds of soup to enjoy – even though they only had to make one.

The tradition of swapping soup seems to have started with a man from Seattle, named Knox Gardener, back in the 1990s. He originally just invited a few friends to trade soups and then it became an annual tradition. By the mid-2000s Soup Swap Day gained even more traction and became a national favorite in the US and other places in the world.

Soup Swap Day offers a way to enjoy new flavors and tastes, in a much more efficient and less time-consuming manner. It’s a win for everyone involved!

How to Celebrate Soup Swap Day

Enjoy Soup Swap Day by implementing some clever ideas of your own, or getting started with some of these:

Host a Soup Swap

The perfect way to celebrate Soup Swap Day is to plan ahead and arrange for a soup swap. The simplest way to get started on a small scale is to include just one friend in the invitation and agree ahead of time which soups each person will make. But for something on a larger scale, it’s certainly possible to include several friends or family members so that each household gets several different soups to try.

Try a New Soup Recipe

Have fun learning how to make a new and different kind of soup in honor of Soup Swap Day. Perhaps this means finding a copycat recipe online for a favorite restaurant soup, such as Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana, or O’Charley’s famous Loaded Potato Soup. Or maybe this is the time to try an old favorite recipe passed down from grandma, or a new one given recently by a friend. Soup Swap Day is a great time to try new things and have some culinary adventures when it comes to soup.

Source

[starseedfxofficial]

Bitcoin Hits $89k as APAC Markets Ride Mixed Waves Bitcoin Hits $89k and APAC Markets Dance to Mixed Tunes Ever notice how Bitcoin is a bit like that friend who disappears, then comes back with a brand new car, pretending like they never left? Well, BTC's back, folks, cruising above $89k and reminding everyone why we can’t look away. The world of digital currency is feeling pretty good about itself, and that optimism is rippling through more traditional markets too—though not without a few twists and turns. APAC Markets: A Not-So-Boring Day at the Office Over in the APAC region, stocks were trading in a mostly upbeat mood, but gains were kept in check—kind of like that feeling when you’re trying to dance, but the DJ just isn't playing the right music. Most of the positivity came from solid earnings, but let’s not get too carried away. Wall Street’s uninspired handover had its effects, and some sectors were definitely more like ‘meh’ than ‘yeah.’ Utilities and Mega-Banks Shine: Who Needs Healthcare, Right? The ASX 200 was led by utilities. It’s like that surprising moment when your least adventurous friend suddenly decides to bungee jump—utilities decided to take the spotlight for once. Healthcare, meanwhile, lagged behind, especially after the news that US President-elect Trump picked RFK Jr, a vaccine skeptic, as HHS Secretary—imagine the collective eye-roll from the healthcare sector. In Japan, the Nikkei 225 soared, benefiting from a weaker yen. Financial names popped, thanks to Japanese megabanks’ earnings that were either on the money or slightly better than expected. It’s like they were handing out solid ‘B+’ grades at school—not the highest honor, but certainly enough to boost confidence. China: Mixed Data, Tech Earnings, and More Liquidity Than You Can Shake a Stick At Now, China—that’s where things got interesting. The Hang Seng and Shanghai Comp saw mixed action throughout the day. Retail Sales were a star, topping expectations, but Industrial Production? Yeah, not so much. The mixed results are like a plate of appetizers where some are amazing and others taste like cardboard. And then there’s the PBoC, injecting the biggest daily liquidity in four years through reverse repos. Picture a firehose of cash to make sure maturing MLF loans and tax payments don’t leave the economy parched. Oh, and Chinese home prices? Still dropping year-on-year, though the monthly decline moderated. Translation: things are looking grim, but hey, maybe just a little less grim this month. Advanced Insights: What's Really Going On? Here’s where the real magic happens, though. Let’s talk strategy—the kind of stuff that separates casual observers from the real insiders. - Bitcoin's Comeback: With BTC cruising back above $89k, don’t just stare at the price—watch for market sentiment. A rebound like this can push risk sentiment across correlated assets, including stocks. The advanced move here? Look for opportunities where risk appetite spikes but hasn’t yet priced into other assets. Think of it as buying beachwear in January—getting in before the crowds do. - APAC's Mixed Moves: The gains in APAC are signaling optimism, but they’re capped, which means the real opportunity might lie in “value hunting.” Utilities shining means a flight to stability; pairing this with short-term weakness in healthcare stocks could create pair trading opportunities. Essentially, it’s a classic “buy the dip” play, but with a contrarian twist. - China's Liquidity Spree: The PBoC’s massive liquidity injection is a subtle way of saying, “Hey, things might get rocky, but we’re making sure there's a safety net.” The smart move here? Look at Chinese banking stocks or financial instruments that benefit from liquidity bumps, but stay cautious—timing is key because such injections can be short-lived sugar highs. Find the Gems Where Others Miss Them The markets today aren’t just about numbers; they're about emotions, shifts, and anticipating the next move while others are still reacting. As Bitcoin climbs and APAC stocks dance to mixed tunes, remember—hidden opportunities often lie just beyond the obvious. When others see mixed data, look for coherence. When gains cap, ask where new ground might break next. If you’re ready to take your trading to the next level with exclusive insights, we’ve got you covered at StarseedFX. Learn from the pros, join the community, or just grab some tools that’ll put you ahead of the game. Stay informed, stay strategic, and always stay a step ahead. —————– Image Credits: Cover image at the top is AI-generated   Read the full article

[lowreyglobalconsultants]

Nominication for study?

For those unfamiliar with the expression 'nominication,' it is a Japanese portmanteau of the words 'nomu' meaning to drink and 'komyunike-shun' or communication in English. It refers to the phenomenon of enjoying communication over a drink and is a large part of Japanese culture.

Sometimes people I have met have mused over the idea of a lesson held while drinking to enjoy English communication. Overall my instinct has always been that this is an ineffective way to study, as the best way to take away results from an English lesson is through active involvement. This includes speaking and asking questions which we will achieve in a nominication- based lesson, but it also involves writing notes and clarity of mind to put together information and new language usage opportunities. I typically chuckle and say, 'good idea' because I know these spontaneous ideas rarely come to fruition.

That opinion is formed from the core of what I believe and how I plan my language lessons, but the problem is that there actually may be some benefit to such sessions. As a student of Japanese, early on I spent time making word lists, reviewing grammar points and writing out the same kanji (Japanese version of Chinese written characters) but I could barely communicate. Part of that problem was fear, but the other half was a lack of practice. It wasn't until I joined the local festival and a Bon Odori (traditional Japanese dance to honor the recently departed) called Enshu Dainenbutsu that I started to get some practice and grow my speaking skills. On top of this, my son started soccer and I took care of driving him and cheering for him, so I had many chances to interact with other parents. I discovered that after a couple of beers I was able to communicate more and it helped me make bigger steps in my speaking ability. A Time magazine article cites a research done by British and Dutch scientists where they concluded that there is a positive influence on foreign language skills after a few drinks (not too many!)

The reason is simple enough to imagine. When we are under the influence, we worry less and we speak more freely. By eliminating the overthinking factor, I found I could have longer conversations and activate words that I had thought I had forgotten. There is also room to experiment and, if we manage to ensure that we don't drink too much, we can stay aware of people's reactions and grow. I feel a reason why this can help is that language is more than math, more than science, there is an artistic element to it as well. The brain needs to grow on many different plains to increase our aptitude and confidence, which is such an important factor in reaching the next steps in communication.

So does this sway my hardliner opinion? A little. I still think structured lessons and practice are essential, especially in a business context. However students could separately enjoy the occasional session with a private teacher or language group which may help give the students a judgement free environment in which to practice their speaking capabilities. Even some classes I have taught like to have a seasonal party to relax and enjoy English communication, but a class still needs to be centered in a classroom with a pen or pencil in your hand.

[progressivemother]

The True Meaning of Thanksgiving, Our Thanksgiving, and The History of Thanksgiving

In the USA during Thanksgiving, families gather, friendships are renewed, and everyone will exclaim what they are “thankful for” or “giving thanks for the blessings they have received during the year.” Enormous plates of food will be served, including turkey, potatoes, and pumpkin pie. It’s an American eating tradition. Through this blog, I will talk about our simply Thanksgiving and the history of Thanksgiving and where is comes from.

Our Thanksgiving was simple yet fun. I didn't have to cook the meals. We had Thanksgiving at my in laws home. My husband and I hardly ever host Thanksgiving under normal circumstances, especially now that we have kids and the holidays have become a special time for us to visit family.

It's a simple holiday. There are no presents to give, no menu to reimagine (although we don't usually fo turkey ), and the whole day is focused on the one thing we all could use more of: gratitude. Gratitude is one of the greatest practices we can teach our children. But sometimes, moms have a hard time feeling grateful, even if they lead seemingly rewarding lives. In reality, life is stressful. We take care of the bills, the house, the kids, the pets, etc. We have a lot to worry about and that can make us feel a little less grateful for our lives despite being well off and relatively happy. So we can focus on what we lack (time, money, extended family) or, more importantly, on what we have (this moment, our immediate family, our home). I would rather think about what I have compared to what I don't. We are better off than most families and I should be grateful for that.

Now for the history of Thanksgiving.

It has much more meaning than a simple family holiday and no, it isn't anything to do with the natives and pilgrims; although for many this doesn't have anything to do with the holiday either. For most, it is simply a family holiday to get everyone together and be thankful for what we have and our family.

Throughout history people have gathered together for great feasts celebrating the harvest or the first beers being brewed, or any of a number of celebrations tied to the earth. And anyone who is anyone knows that earth-based anything has its roots in paganism.

The great civilizations of the past had their own versions of Thanksgiving. The Romans celebrated a holiday called Cerelia where the festivities included feasting while thanking the Goddess of the Harvest, Ceres. In ancient Greece they honored Demeter, the Goddess of the harvest and agriculture. The Celts and Anglo-Saxon’s had many celebrations connected to thanking the gods for a productive harvest. Lammas, Mabon, and Samhain were the names of the three great harvest festivals of the ancient world. For the Celts, it was called Mabon and it marked the Autumn Equinox, when day and night are equal, making it a time of balance, equality and harmony. In ancient times Mabon was a celebration of the second harvest (Lughnasadh was the first) when farmers gathered hearty foods like gourds, grapes and apples.

As time progressed, these events were adopted and adapted. In England, an autumnal feast called Harvest Home was celebrated and was derived from a variant of the ancient Celtic Pagan feasts. Harvest Home was a three-day feast that began with a special church service followed a communal dinner. Later, the Puritans would shun Harvest Home as well as Christmas and Easter on the grounds that they had pagan origins. Let's face it, the Puritans were never any fun. They were much too strict within their religion. But since many Christians still celebrate this holiday, thanking their god for the things and family in their lives seems just fine.

The holiday was later shared with the Natives of the americas. It can be said that the Natives most likely gave thanks to the spirits and celebrated their creator.

Symbols of Thanksgiving & Their Meaning:

Cornucopia – A Cornucopia is a horn shaped basket, usually filled to the point of overflowing with the bounty of the recent harvest symbolizing "plenty". The cornucopia dates back to ancient Greece.

Corn – One of the easiest symbols of Thanksgiving to recognize is corn. Native Americans would know it as maize or maiz. Native Americans had been growing corn a long time before the pilgrims arrived in the new world, and they taught pilgrims how to grow corn and help them survive the bitter winter. Corn was from that day forward, a part of the Thanksgiving dinner.

Turkey – Long before the pilgrims sat down to eat with the Native American’s who saved them from starving, the turkey was associated with abundance and being thankful. It is native to the americas.

We have to remember and respect where this holiday comes from and what it means to each person. But no matter what religion or non-religion, this day is a time to be thankful for what we have, even if it is only a little, and look to the future while we spend time with those that we love. Our children should also be educated on what this day means and where it came from.

I hope everyone had a great holiday.