#taking a moment to step back from your life is great because it gives perspective as to WHY you're doing/thinking something

[tecchous-thicc-buttocks]

tips for self confidence? 💓

random af ask but WOO!!! I LOVE ANONS

i've got one main philosophy when it comes to self confidence and that is that insecurity isn't real.

im a person. if I see another person, I would think something about them for like a few seconds then move on with my life. that's literally how I treat myself. "oh i'm ugly" cool thought that lasts 2 seconds. "i'm so damn gorgeous" lasts 5-10 seconds max. onto the next.

my advice is to redirect your doubts away from yourself as an entire person and instead see it as parts of you that you can always improve on. today, you may feel that you're not a worthy person because you got a bad grade on an exam or made mistakes at work, but try to isolate that single aspect away from "you" as a whole. if you wouldn't define yourself based on one good day, you shouldn't for a bad one.

remember that you are not one thing. you are not just your looks, and if you find yourself unattractive, you don't need to be intelligent or funny in order to compensate for this. you don't owe anyone anything, and you don't need to earn the right to exist.

that's in terms of self-love ofc. for the confidence part, it's practice tbh. approach people randomly and give them a compliment. don't overthink before you act, and just do it ™. it is never as deep as you think it is. ask yourself if you saw someone else doing this, what would you think? and when I say that it's practice, I mean try to do more and more little things until it becomes second nature.

I'll give a concrete example: I've been on crutches for the past 10 weeks and take public transportation for a few hours almost daily. when I get on, sometimes there aren't available seats, and I was never able to ask someone to get up and give me their seat. "what if they have a disability I can't see? I'm only on crutches it's just temporary, it's not my right to ask someone to stand up for me. I don't want to be rude" writing it out, I sound pretty stupid, but honestly it took someone else (who was also standing) asking a seated person to get up for me to make me realize I'm lacking confidence for absolutely no reason. If the roles were swapped and I was sitting and saw someone in crutches, I would be the one feeling embarrassed if they asked me to take my seat, not the other way around.

all of this to say that it's always worse in your head than it really is. write out your fear or say it out loud or just verbalize it in your mind and you'll realize how silly it is. I believe that self-confidence is exaggerated nowadays because everything is about the self and the way you're perceived by others, but it really isn't. yeah I'm not the most eloquent person out there. I tend to talk too much when I should really keep things to myself. so what? what's so wrong with that? I work on myself and hope to get better at it someday, but I know my worth. on a fundamental level, I know I'll never be satisfied with myself, but I never equate that with what I am or what I deserve, and that's the essential message of all of this. love isn't about cherishing something perfect and neither is self-love. now read that sentence again.

ty for your ask anon, and I hope whoever you're asking this q for, got even a crumb of what I said and it helped them a little. I'd tell you that you're gorgeous and slay and all that jazz but I think it's more pertinent to tell you that someone, somewhere in this world is creating an oc that looks and acts just like you, wanting to BE you. have a GREAT day and remember to commit tax fraud cutely while hydrating your veins.

[cazshmere]

Advice & Support for the Moon Signs 🫂

materialist🔖

DISCLAIMER : Just a little reminder that you're doing great, even when it doesn't feel like it. Life can be tough, but you’re tougher, and the storm will pass. You are so deeply loved, just as you are, and it's perfectly okay to take a step back when you need to. Give yourself permission to rest, to breathe, and to simply be. You’re not alone—there’s a world of support around you, even in the quiet moments. Hold on, because better days are coming, and until then, know that you’re wrapped in warmth, care, and endless encouragement. You've got this!🩵🫂

🩵 Aries Moon

1. You don’t need to prove yourself to anybody. You are absolutely loved just the way you are.

2. Learn to balance your need for independence with the importance of meaningful connections.

3. Don’t let impulsiveness lead you to make decisions that you may regret later. Take time before you react and to think things through.

4. Embrace your natural leadership qualities, but remember to consider the needs of others too.

5. It’s okay to ask for help when you need it. You don’t always have to do everything on your own.

🩵 Taurus Moon

1. It’s okay to stay in your comfort zone at times. Don’t feel ashamed for taking some time for yourself.

2. It's okay to hold back from sharing your viewpoint at times, especially if you're not fully convinced of it yourself. Try to remain open to other perspectives and avoid being too fixed in your opinions.

3. Appreciate the beauty in the small things around you. It’s the little moments that make life rich.

4. Don’t let the fear of change keep you from evolving. Growth often requires stepping into the unknown.

5. Prioritize self-care and surround yourself with things that bring you peace and comfort.

🩵 Gemini Moon

1. Your thoughts are not who you are. Don’t define yourself based on them; you are so much more. Learn to separate yourself from your thoughts.

2. Stay curious and open to learning new things, but don’t overwhelm yourself with too many interests at once.

3. Take time to connect with your inner self, beyond the constant stream of thoughts.

4. Don’t be afraid to speak your mind, but remember that listening is just as important as talking.

5. Cultivate deeper relationships by sharing your thoughts and ideas with those who truly understand you.

🩵 Cancer Moon

1. It’s okay to put your needs ahead of others. You deserve the same amount of love and care that you give to others.

2. Create a safe emotional space for yourself, where you can retreat and recharge.

3. Don’t be afraid to express your emotions. It’s okay to be vulnerable with those you trust.

4. Build a supportive network of loved ones who appreciate your nurturing nature.

5. Trust your instincts when it comes to people. Your intuition is a powerful guide.

🩵 Leo Moon

1. You don’t need anyone’s approval; you are the amazing just the way you are, it might not be easy to accept this but trust me it is GENUINELY true.

2. Shine brightly and embrace your unique talents, but remember that true confidence comes from within.

3. Don’t be afraid to take the spotlight, but also allow others to shine beside you.

4. Surround yourself with people who uplift you and celebrate your successes.

5. Remember that your self-worth is not tied to external validation. You are worthy just as you are.

🩵 Virgo Moon

1. Take a breather. Let’s count down together : 5…4…3...2...1... okay now that you’re back to the present here it goes, you have nothing to worry about and everything around you is already fine or will get better soon, don’t loose hope. When you do feel anxious, try grounding methods and focus on the present.

2. Embrace the beauty in imperfection. You don’t have to be perfect to be loved and appreciated.

3. Practice self-compassion and don’t be too hard on yourself when things don’t go as planned.

4. Find healthy outlets for your analytical mind, like journaling or creative projects.

5. Remember that it’s okay to ask for help. You don’t have to do everything on your own.

🩵 Libra Moon

1. You don’t have to be nice to everyone. It’s okay to stand up to people who treat you poorly.

2. Seek balance in your relationships, but don’t sacrifice your own needs to keep the peace.

3. Surround yourself with people who make you feel calm and balanced as it is better for your mental wellbeing.

4. Don’t be afraid to make decisions, even if it means disappointing others. Your happiness matters too.

5. Cultivate meaningful connections that bring joy and balance into your life.

🩵 Scorpio Moon

1. I know it’s hard to be vulnerable and truly express yourself to others, but you need an outlet for your emotions. Try journaling or recording a voice memo to let yourself fully feel your emotions.

2. Embrace your depth and intensity—yes, you feel emotions more deeply than most, and there's nothing to be afraid of. It’s genuinely beautiful. Experiencing emotions at such a profound level is a gift, but be mindful not to let it overwhelm you.

3. Trust yourself to handle whatever challenges come your way. You are stronger than you think.

4. Don’t be afraid to let others in. True connections are formed when you allow yourself to be seen.

5. Remember that healing takes time. Be patient with yourself as you work through your emotions.

🩵 Sagittarius Moon

1. It’s okay to cry without immediately having to laugh afterward. Crying is just as beautiful as laughing, so please remember to let yourself feel your emotions.

2. Embrace your adventurous spirit, but remember that it’s okay to slow down and rest when needed.

3. Don’t be afraid to explore new perspectives and ideas. Growth comes from expanding your horizons.

4. Cultivate optimism, but also allow yourself to process difficult emotions without brushing them aside.

5. Surround yourself with people who share your enthusiasm for life and support your dreams.

🩵 Capricorn Moon

1. You don’t have to meet anyone’s expectations but your own. In the end, it’s what you want and you feel that matters. If something isn’t bringing you happiness, don’t force yourself to go through with it.

2. Focus on building a solid foundation for your future, but remember to enjoy the present moment.

3. Don’t let the pressure to succeed weigh you down. Take time to relax and recharge.

4. Surround yourself with people who respect your boundaries and support your goals.

5. Trust in your abilities and know that your hard work will pay off in time.

🩵 Aquarius Moon

1. Your feelings shouldn’t be shoved under a rug. It’s okay to feel; emotions are natural and an integral part of being human. Don’t be ashamed to vent to others.

2. Embrace your uniqueness and don’t be afraid to stand out from the crowd.

3. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who appreciate your vision and ideas.

4. Don’t let the fear of vulnerability keep you from forming deep connections. You deserve meaningful relationships.

5. Remember that it’s okay to change your mind and evolve. Growth is a lifelong journey.

🩵 Pisces Moon

1. Sometimes people take advantage of your caring personality. Don’t let your guard down easily, and be very careful with those around you. As a Pisces Moon, you can sense energies, and energy never lies.

2. Embrace your sensitivity as a strength, but also set boundaries to protect your energy.

3. Don’t be afraid to dream big, but stay grounded in reality to make those dreams come true.

4. Cultivate a spiritual practice that helps you connect with your inner self and find peace.

5. Surround yourself with people who understand and appreciate your compassionate nature.

banner/pic credits @/ecojinri

© cazshmere 2024 [All Rights Reserved]

[etherfabric]

Messages for Reassurance + Songs

Choose a pile by which picture you resonate with the most.

If your mind is too busy to clearly decide, take a few deep breaths, and use the finger of your non-dominant hand to hover over the images. One will give off the most subtle yet prominent signals, like tingles, a magnetic pull, or temperature. This is your pile. Multiples are also possible.

You are the ultimate authority over your life. I merely provide my perspective. Sometimes the Universe lines you up with something that doesn't resonate with your truth, so you have contrast to find out what does. Never give away your power.

Pile 1

Knight of Cups, High Priestess

The hope inside of you is not delusion. You are safe to go after the things that seem promising and enriching. The days where you couldn't hear your gut well enough to listen to it are gone. Serendipities of various sizes permeate your day to day life, and it feels almost to good to be true. Did you really make it? Yes, dear. You did. You embraced your shadows enough to bask in the sun again.

Of course this is no utopia, and the frights of the past have sharpened your foresight to real possibilities, but believe yourself when you can't feel any danger closeby. You are stronger, smarter, and in better company than ever before. Now all there is left to do is putting some weight in those timid steps towards your bliss. Don't worry about tripping - you'll land on your foundation and get up again, eyes forward, one foot in front of the other. You will get there as soon as you fully arrive internally, and you are so close to completion already. You will see it once you believe it.

Pile 2

6 of Wands, The Hanged Man

You are exactly where you are supposed to be, in the exact context and circumstances you see at this very moment, inside and out. The conditions are perfect for you thrive in. You might have to get a little unorthodox in your approaches, and the shape of other people's successes sometimes clouds your inspiration, but let good be good enough for now. Think of past you - they prayed to have what you have now.

Okay, yes, they were a little misguided in a few details of their wishes (thankfully rejection is divine protection), and in thinking once you would be here, everything would be perfect - life is still life, you are still human - but the lessons that led you here widened your understanding of how everything had to happen this way. Guess what, future you will look back at this very moment with the exact same wisdom and compassion.

You can work with what you have at your disposal and rightfully expect the glory of tangible progress. Just keep doing what you are doing already, keep it simple and managable, and there will be nothing significant standing in your way. Those bouts of stagnation? That's where the depth of your skills comes from in the first place. Just like muscles, the soul and mind need their periods of liminal passivity to come back with full force to charge you ahead. You are on the right track. You are doing great. You can be proud of yourself.

Pile 3

Page of Swords, 10 of Wands

Oh dear. It's okay to say you are tired. It's okay to break apart. It's okay to hurt and just want to quit it all. Why are you carrying all this by yourself, tasks and thoughts alike? Don't you know the relief once you put them both down? For the thoughts: Speak, write, scream. To somebody, or nobody. The most important part is admitting it. Then at least you are freed of the burden to act like everything is fine. I know you are scared, I know you wouldn't be in this situation in the first place if you knew for sure you could let go. But I trust in the magic of coincidences, and you reading this right now tells me you need to stop swimming against the current and let the flow carry you downstream.

Stop clinging to things that only stay if you wreck yourself. The tide will wash them out of your hands anyway, because soon you will reach your body's limits, and then the decision will be made for you. Let the dam break. Let nature take its course. You are so smart and truly believed the best, I can see that, and it's no lack of character that caused things to go this way. But this wasn't meant for you. I know it hurts. I hurt with you. But once you stop fighting gravity, you will be drawn to what is truly for you. Put the burden down. I know you had the best intentions, but it's over. You can rest now.

Pile 4

9 of Cups, Knight of Pentacles

You already know this, but slow and steady does indeed win the race. Instead of doing a million things exhausting yourself, you are focusing on a handful of daily tasks, knowing they will lead you exactly where you want to be. Time and consistency are on your side. You know you don't have to be perfect and can always pick up where you left off. Appreciation from outside sources resonates with your own satisfaction about how things are playing out for you.

Your longterm goals seem closer than ever. You have your routine down pat, and trust in your ability of finding even better tweaks and spins for it in the future. This calm air of confidence looks so good on you! You have earned it. You can read the signs relative to your success, know which road to take, and which pitfalls to avoid. You feel incredibly rich and know how to pass the time until certain things come to fruition. It used to make you anxious when you were faced with slowpaced processes, and you fell back on less sustainable approaches to selfsoothe. Now you appreciate the journey itself, even welcome the delays, so you have ample time to smell the flowers on the side of the road.

[strangersteddierthings]

Porcelain Steve - Part 4

Part One🦇Part Two🦇Part Three🦇Part Four🦇Part Five🦇Part Six🦇Part Seven🦇Part Eight🦇Part Nine

"I don't think this is a good idea," Nancy says, a week later, as she takes a step back. She doesn't seem aware of the physical distance she's added between herself and Robin, but more importantly, herself and Steve in Robin's outstretched arm.

Robin frowns, pulling Steve back towards her body, eyes flicking to meet with Eddie's where he's been hovering awkwardly off to the side, feeling so very out of place. He was going to stay in the van, but when they arrived Robin had raised an eyebrow and said 'aren't you coming?' So, he'd climbed out and followed her into the Wheeler's living room, where he is now.

"What?" Robin asks.

Nancy crosses her arms and looks off to the side. "We shouldn't pass the doll around like this. The more we move it, the bigger chance of someone breaking it."

"It?" seethes Robin, "Steve is not an it!"

"Shit, no, Robin I know that. I didn't mean to say that out loud," Nancy says, then her face screws up as she immediately regrets saying that. "I don't mean that, either. I just, this is. Difficult. For me."

Eddie can't help the scoff that leaves him at that. As if Nancy is the only one taking this harshly. If she knew how long Dustin had cried into his chest two days ago she'd probably have a bit more perspective. Eddie's come to realize she's a badass with a shotgun, a great strategist in dire situations, but when it comes to being a person with emotions and feelings? He's not sure Nancy learned how to do that.

That might be unfair of him to say because he didn't know Nancy before spring break of '86 and didn't really get to know her before she packed up and went to college. This is the first summer since then, so still not a whole lot of 'hanging out and getting to know Nancy Wheeler time' has happened.

He did get to know Jonathan and Argyle, though. Got to hear about her past with Jonathan and Steve (Eddie feels a bit like an idiot for everything he said about Nancy to Steve during the worst week of his life, but he's used to being embarrassed by things he says and pretending he's not). So, he's heard about her steamrolling over people's emotions with her own logic and wants, though can concede it never seems to be intentional.

He tries to lower his hackles because Robin's already on the defensive and Eddie doesn't know Nancy. Just knows of her from people she's hurt, which is almost always a biased retelling anyway.

"Like it's not difficult for all of us?" Robin asks.

"No, that's not what I meant. Just- give me a moment!" Nancy whips around, so that neither Robin or Eddie can see her face. Her shoulders heave up and down like she's taking several deep breaths.

Eddie moves into Robin's space but hovers just beside her, unsure if she'd welcome a hand on her shoulder or not. She huffs out a sigh, as if able to read his mind, and the next thing he knows she's weaseling her way in between him and his own arm, using him as a leaning post like she might with Steve if he were, y'know, still a human and not a doll. He's not used to how touchy Robin is yet because she's only like this with Steve but he's getting there. He's not Robin's soulmate, and he's not trying to be, but he does want to be there for her while Steve can't.

"I'm surprised you're giving her space to think," Eddie whispers into the top of Robin's head.

"Yeah, well, Steve doesn't need to hear us arguing. It's like, all he hears lately."

He pats her arm with his hand since she's draped his arm across her shoulders.

Nancy finally turns around. "Can. Can we put Steve up in my room? I have to say some things that I'm not ready for him to hear yet."

"Oh." Robin says, before offering Steve out.

Nancy takes him, muttering a soft, "I'm sorry, Steve." before she disappears up the stairs.

"What's on your mind, Wheeler?" Eddie asks, breaking the silence that had settled uncomfortably since Nancy's return to the living room.

"I don't really think of Steve as an it. I don't. It's just- easier for me to think of the solution if I'm not thinking about how that's really Steve. I know that's Steve, that he's been transformed, but if I acknowledge that, think about it too much, I spiral. I've taken to just... thinking about some abstract magic doll instead of Steve. So, that was- it was an accident. I didn't mean to say it."

He feels Robin nodding her head, adjusting her stance as she crosses her arms.

Nancy continues, "I don't think Steve should spend time here. With Mike or I. We aren't- it's not going to be good for Steve. He's not going to feel welcomed or wanted here. Except maybe for with Holly, but she cannot know he's here. She'd try and play with him."

Eddie frowns. He understands that Mike isn't going to part of the Hang Out With Porcelain Steve rotation, because whatever beef they have can't be fixed while Steve's like this, and until it's fixed, that would just be torture for both of them. He's not sure why Nancy thinks she'd be just as bad, though, so he asks, "No Holly, no Mike. Why are you also a no?"

The look on Nancy's face is comical, a mix of indignation, sadness, and a bit of how can you seriously not already know the answer mixed. "Because I won't hang out with him. I can't be walking around my house with a porcelain doll that looks like my ex-boyfriend. He'll be left, probably face down, on my dresser, until someone else's turn comes around."

"You could put in the effort, you know. It's not going to kill you to pretend to care for a day," Robin says.

Nancy sucks in a sharp breath. "I do care! Just because I don't want to cuddle with Doll Steve and tell him all about my day doesn't mean I don't care. Just because I don't express my feelings and emotions the same way you do doesn't mean I don't have them."

"Ok, right, yeah, that was unfair of me," Robin concedes, "but what's the part you aren't saying? None of this sounds like something you had to lock Steve in your room for. It's understandable, and Steve wouldn't hold it against you, you know."

"I know! I do! That's why I can't. There's- Robin, you have to know. Steve and I aren't- we're still more like ex's than friends. It's... complicated. We're working on it, though, the being friends thing. But it's..."

"Complicated," Robin sighs, stepping away from Eddie now, halfway to Nancy before she stops walking, hands on her hips.

"That spring break, it fucked us all up, and the months that followed, but I was so- Steve and I were dancing around each other, and Jonathan and I were good, then not, on and then off and then on. And I-I led Steve on, because I would turn to him when Jonathan and I were fighting, or on a break, or whatever-" Nancy stops to take a breath.

Eddie feels something ugly rising in him, jealousy and anger. He doesn't have any right to be jealous. Steve and he are friends, and Steve's straight so it's not like Eddie ever even had a chance, but he's jealous anyway. That Nancy gets that kind of attention from Steve. That she can just keep pieces of Steve on a string, enjoying him when she wants and discarding him when she doesn't. Anger that she can just treat Steve like a yoyo and get away with it.

A little angry at Steve, too, for letting her do it.

"Did you and Steve have sex while you and Jonathan were together?" Robin seethes.

"No! No! There was one time, Jonathan and I were off-again and I tried- but no!" Nancy is pink in the face, and Eddie's surprised she even answers. It's not his or Robin's business if they did. He thinks she might only be answering honestly because it's Robin asking. "Steve said no. He told me he wasn't going to do that the Jonathan. Because he knew what it felt like to be on that side. And even now that Jonathan and I are done, moved on, Steve and I aren't- so it's complicated."

That's news to Eddie. He thought Nancy and Jonathan were still a couple. He's a little shocked to learn that Nancy is confirmed available and Steve didn't jump on the chance.

"Oh! I get it, now, why this is not a good idea," Robin says. Great that she knows, because Eddie still doesn't. "He said no, didn't he?"

Who said no to what?

Nancy's eyes snap to Robin. "What?"

"When you asked Steve to be your boyfriend again. He said no."

"He told you-?"

"No," Robin interrupts, "Steve would never, and you know that. I just know Steve, and the one thing he would never tell me about if it happened. That's why you don't want him here."

"You're in love with him!" Eddie blurts because he's also just figured it out and like Robin often does, has no brain to mouth filter.

Nancy looks to Eddie now, a small frown on her face. "Possibly. But it doesn't matter because I had my chance and it's over now. So, I can't have him here. Not while he's like this."

"I'll go get him," Robin says, leaving the living room.

"Eddie," Nancy locks eyes with him. The look on her face is pretty intense. "He told me no because he thought he was in love with someone else."

He blinks back at her. "Were you hoping he told me who? 'Cause he didn't. That's a question better left for Robin."

All he gets in response is an eye roll.

[itsclydebitches]

Does everyone know that one found family post going around that's something like, "What do you MEAN they all go their separate ways after the journey??"

That's how I feel about Ted going back to Kansas.

To be clear, I'm not arguing that it's an unlikely ending to the series. I think it's very likely, especially when I consider a lot of the cool meta people have been writing lately, but that likeliness leaves a sour taste in my mouth because what's waiting for Ted in Kansas? "Henry!" the fandom cries and yes, obviously, but that doesn't feel like enough to me (which I realize sounds like a callous statement regarding a father and son, but hear me out). The only other things Kansas has are an ex-wife, a horrifically unprofessional step-dad in the making, and a long line of comforts that Ted has outgrown. I've noticed that this season in particular Ted has been moving away from his American roots: he misses his BBQ sauce but manages to find a perfect replacement in Amsterdam, he's finding solace in paintings for temporary homesickness, he's using "football" and "maths" naturally in conversation, many of his speeches lately have been about how he once WAS this American so-and-so but has changed significantly since then. From a canonical perspective, Henry is the only thing in Kansas that's good for Ted anymore and even if we put that aside for a moment (which I don't think we should) it seems quite significant to me that Ted has spent three successful years parenting from across the pond.

Is that ideal? No, but Ted Lasso hasn't gone out of its way to paint this separation as a failure, or a crippling blow to Ted or Henry, despite them obviously missing each other a great deal at times. I'll admit that this aspect is absolutely colored by my own bias. As someone who doesn't want kids herself, I dislike the implicit message that a parent must give up everything they want/need in order to be 100% available to their child. I'm of the belief that there's a big difference between loving/raising your child and lacking a life outside of them because Every Aspect of Your Existence Must Serve Their Direct Needs Until the Magical Age of 18, so I've never jived with the "Ted is a horrible father who abandoned Henry!" takes. Not just because I think the show has made it clear that Henry doesn't feel abandoned, but because it tells viewers that parents can't have anything for themselves once they've brought a life into this world... which feels pretty shitty to me. Thus, that whole Henry-based argument rings as unpersuasive both from my biased perspective and a canonical perspective: "In order to be labeled a good father Ted MUST go back to Henry in Kansas, leaving behind every bond he's formed here, despite the fact that he's spent a significant amount of time making this long-distance relationship work really, really well."

Putting Henry aside and going back to my original point above, sending Ted to Kansas requires the audience to imagine up a life for him that has never existed on screen. Sure, we can assume that Ted will form new bonds and rekindle old ones there, but that would exist entirely off screen. Like the story that asks you to ignore the family that's been built right in front of you in favor of the headcanoned one that the characters are separating for, a Kansas ending would ask us to toss aside three seasons worth of family, community, and still developing relationships for... whatever it is we'd personally imagine up post-series. Audiences (by and large) don't WANT their protagonist to end up with [insert OCs here], they want them to stay with the developed cast, whether that's a romance, a friendship, or a family. To me, there's nothing satisfying about imagining Ted in a location the series has never explored with people who don't exist yet except for, as said, an ex, a man who justifiably makes him incredibly uncomfortable, and his child whom he already has a fantastic relationship with in the community where Ted is happy.

There are a lot of other reasons why this ending would be a big disappointment to me, most notably the rejection of untraditional forms of parenting + the message that Ted was always destined to "reset," returning to precisely where he started out, like he's just a hope dispenser who isn't allowed to significantly grow himself. Sure, you can divorce and get better about managing your anxiety... but making a permanent, positive life change? Nah, let's act like this is an episodic show and toss you back to the beginning. I've seen a couple of people compare Ted to Mary Poppins and while a part of my does like that connection, another part cringes at the idea of him playing the role of magical benefactor, his own future happiness deemed insignificant compared to the lives he's already changed. Thanks for the help, Ted! Hope you manage to find some more happiness for yourself back among everything you've spent the series leaving behind. Open your umbrella and let the wind take you; wherever you land and how hard the fall is doesn't matter because the show is over.

So there's a lot going on for me, however, the found family bit is where I'm truly stuck. You're really going to build up this community and Ted's place in it for three seasons, moving him from "wanker" all the way to beloved coach, only to pack him back to Kansas after he's finally carved out a place for himself? Kansas, the place the show has consistently argued has nothing to offer Ted except for the child he hasn't actually lost? Yeah no, sorry, I'm not a fan.

Which doesn't mean I think Ted Lasso is going to become a terrible show if they choose this - again, very likely - ending... but I will personally be pulling a Nick Fury about it.

[shai-manahan]

hello!!! how are you? :) i was wondering if maybe you could teach me how to make diverse characters? like fr i try so hard to make characters from diverse background but always end up with the same old american or british character when there are so many nationalities to be covered!! if i could learn even a fraction of your greatness i'd be grateful to you for life 😗👉👈

p.s. the last time i attempted to make a nepali character i was almost stoned to death so im terrified of creating new characters incase i offend someone accidentally... ehe

It’s not really something I can teach. I can only offer my opinions, and I am certain that other writers of color will not feel the same way in some regards, so please understand that while I made a long post about this, you shouldn’t use this as the only guide you’ll use for writing. This is not a list of everything you need to know. I can see you’re being genuine about it, but there’s a whole lot of extensive research you’ll have to do based on what you’ve said in this ask.

First of all, I think it would be a better idea for you to take a moment and assess why your readers hated the way your Nepali character has been portrayed. Because I’m going to be honest with you; even minority authors are terrified of writing characters that have a similar heritage with them -- perhaps on an even larger extent compared to when white authors write characters of color -- and that fear never really goes away. We also make mistakes. We sometimes make writing decisions that are seen as bad by the people belonging to our communities. But we do try to learn from them, and that’s what matters the most.

So your first step should be to look back, trace your logic, figure out what went wrong and what you can do to prevent it from happening again, and only when that happens can you attempt to write characters that come from varying origins. 

I know it’s easier to avoid all that effort and make it so that every character in your story comes from one or two backgrounds only, but using that reason, wherein an author refuses to write characters of color because they can’t be bothered to research other people’s experiences... it’s honestly a lazy decision that will make your readers of color to feel excluded. 

But of course, writing a harmful representation of minorities is just as bad, if not worse. I am by no means an expert, but I do have some general tips you can perhaps start with. 

1. Research

I know this is already a given, but I cannot tell you how many writers tend to skip this stage. Make sure that your sources are reliable, preferably written or made by people who come from that culture themself, and gather every single bit of information you can while keeping in mind that not everything you see in a single google search would be accurate. Look at the associated stereotypes, study their culture, read memoirs, articles, studies, etc., and start building a backstory for your characters.

2. Get sensitivity readers

This is very important. If you know people who would be willing to give their feedback for free, then good for you. But take note that whether or not you paid for their services, there is a possibility that there could be some bias existing, so please, if you can, get multiple sensitivity readers. One person’s opinion should not be your sole source of information. People who belong to minorities are not a monolith, after all. 

Also! Please, please never accuse anyone of racefaking. There is no excuse to this. Just because a person doesn’t agree with you, no one has the right to accuse anyone of that. I have seen some authors do this... and it’s highly disturbing. (and no, it doesn’t matter if you’re getting the rudest anons on your blog. it’s blatantly racist)

Just keep an open mind about everything you might hear, because some of them will be uncomfortable to your ears and might even seem harsh through your perspective. It won’t even be surprising if some of your testers simply walk away after an argument or two, as it can seriously be tiring to have to explain to an author what they have done wrong -- much more if the author never took an effort to listen -- but like with everything else, you can learn from your mistakes.

3. Writing characters of color should not be a mere part of a checklist

Look, this needs to be said. A mere mention of your character’s nationality is never enough for a representation. I’m including this because I am seeing countless stories where the supposedly ethnically diverse characters aren’t really... diverse. Regardless of their viewpoints towards their heritage, people’s ethnicities do affect the way they live in some ways (as well as their gender, education, sexuality, religion, and social status) and some authors seem to forget that. 

I hate seeing writing advice being phrased like -- “it doesn’t matter where they’re from! just write them as you would any other character!” -- because while there are some points to consider there, people coming from vastly different cultures would be shaped by those cultures no matter what, albeit in different ways.

As such, even things like answering asks on your blog and describing their favorite things aren’t enough to say that you're properly representing them. If you as an author can't manage to include how the character's identity affects them within the narrative of the game, then what is it all for?

Be careful about distancing your character from their culture too much as well. Unless you have another character with the same heritage that balances that out, this is almost like you’re erasing the identity they had to live with. You are not being diverse by doing this; you are simply stripping away the very thing that has molded your character’s life; and it is such a huge disrespect to the people who have been wanting so long to finally see their identities be represented properly for once. You’re refusing to do the work that should have come with using that background. You are stealing it.

If you want to show that you respect the ethnicities from which your characters come, then make efforts to represent who they really are, not just the portions of their habits that you find interesting enough to parade around.

And I will be brutally honest here. If you can replace a minority character's ethnicity in your head while reading the story and everything remains the same, then I have to say the author has failed. Of course, this will only be assessed when the story’s over, because character developments happen. But they do have to happen.

4. Keep reading works made by people from those backgrounds (and support them if you can)

I don’t think I need to elaborate too much on that. Most of the time, it’s a great way to see the relevant issues the writer themself faces daily within their community, and reading their works might provide you some understanding. And yes, my work does reflect mine to some extent.

Some more points to consider:

Avoid tokenizing your characters.  

Don’t expect praise for the diversity you’ll be including, no matter how detailed they will be.

There are simply some cultures you absolutely cannot touch -- those wherein research and even getting help from others would not be enough. When that happens, back off respectfully. I have an Agta background (some call it Aeta) and I am seriously scared of seeing our heritage in a white author’s work, because there’s too many misconceptions even in actual published books to the point that it’s improbable to represent it well unless you have someone who directly comes from that ethnicity.

Research more into cultural appropriation and fetishization, then learn how to avoid them.

Consider your character’s interactions with those who are not part of the minority. There are huge stereotypes here that might be difficult for some to avoid.

If you have to, you can use tropes and stereotypes for the sole purpose of deconstructing them. But I do not advise you to do this unless you have a good grasp of the implications behind them. I use this with some of the ROs in Hollowed Minds, and I can attest that you have to be very careful.

Be mindful of the privilege and prejudices you have as you write.

There is no one perfect way of representing minorities, and characters should also be portrayed as individuals.

Things you might want to avoid when writing BIPOC unless you are one:

Racism

Slavery/Human trafficking 

Colonization

Excessive violence towards that particular group

Segregation systems

Tragedy exploitation in general

I hope this helps a little. I can share some insights as to how I prepared creating my characters in Hollowed Minds, especially with Alonzo and Jade, but you would have to ask more specific questions. I’ve spent a lot of time on figuring out their identities, and there’s so much I want to share that I can’t include here (the post is long enough).

For some parting words, let me just say this. Be prepared to do a lot of revisions. There will be inaccuracies in your writing, and there will be mistakes. No one expects you as an author to be 100% accurate on your first attempt, but do your part, learn to accept valid criticism, and your readers will be a lot more forgiving. After all, while you have the right to include what you want to write, it would be wise to remember some of these have responsibilities attached. Good luck on your writing!

[theprayerfulword]

November 12

Proverbs 15:1 NIV A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 11:12 NIV A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his tongue.

2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work

Isaiah 40:26 NIV Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing.

Romans 12:18 NIV If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Galatians 5:25 NIV Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

May you be willing to hear the Lord as He speaks to your heart, desiring to cleanse you of thoughts, habits, reflexes, responses, beliefs, preferences, actions, desires, tastes, that hinder your walk with Him and hold you back from humble obedience and the joy of His presence in your life, for He will speak as softly as you let Him, but He is willing to speak as loudly as you require of Him. Ezekiel 24

May you recall that the Lord has already given what is most dear to Him, His Son, because of His love for you, so be assured that He will not withhold any other actions which you may require Him to take, that your vision would not be blinded to, nor your heart unable to perceive, His call for you to draw near to Him, to love mercy and to do justly and to walk humbly before Him, the Sovereign Lord. Ezekiel 24

May you not rejoice or turn away when sorrow or misfortune befalls others, for God's love is as strong for them as it is for you, and He will strengthen and protect you as you offer comfort and encouragement to them as He directs you. Ezekiel 25

May you respond without judgment or prejudice when God deals with someone by pulling down their strongholds and removing their defenses, leaving them open and vulnerable to all who pass by, for if you have not been disassembled for repair upon God's workbench, your time will come and you will need others to support and encourage you without trying to fix or explain what has happened. Ezekiel 26

My child, think it not strange when I set you in “time out” and take away your toys, isolating you from playing with others in their games. Distractions cause you to forget to be kind and fail to share, but time spent without stimulation, without eye candy, without voices in your ears and your thoughts telling you what to feel and numbing your heart to My whispers will allow you to once again focus on My love for you. My desire is to give you good gifts that will endure in eternity and restore your perspective, enabling you to choose life, rather than merely good or bad. I know the pain you feel, the shame and sorrow that is yours for a moment as your view of yourself is re-adjusted and your understanding of your identity in Me is realigned to My will; it is only your pride you feel – release it, and know My pride in you. Draw close to Me and know My joy over you. Hear My Word, letting it sink into your heart, and know My life in you. Walk with Me and know My will for you.

May you receive God's gift of faith, allowing you to be sure of what you hope for and be certain of what you do not see, for this is how you understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what is visible, and without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. Hebrews 11

May you accept that you are an alien and a stranger on earth, a pilgrim and sojourner passing through, not belonging or fitting in, for you are looking for a country of your own, not the one you are coming out of, but longing for a better country – a heavenly one; therefore, God is not ashamed to be called your God, for He has prepared a city for you. Hebrews 11

May you rejoice in the Lord, Who is seated on His throne, ruling in authority, acting through His people, performing His deeds through the prayers of His people and the obedience of His ministers, both in the earth and in the heavens, though still surrounded by His enemies, yet daily giving you His victory. Psalm 110

[comictarot]

What Special Surprise is Coming this February 2023?

Decks Used: Affirmators!, Rider-Waite & Moonology Oracle

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Check out my Comic Tarot Socials:

Comic Tarot Website

Comic Tarot YouTube

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Group 1

A feminine energy, an older woman to some who is mature and wise with experience, is going to be appearing this month. This woman, energy, brings forth clarity, understanding, a comfort to a situation or truth that you have always known. Financial hardship, a negative circumstance has left you feeling lonely, hopeless, cold. You have been hoping for some mercy, some kindness, a miracle to come in and help you, give you some relief even just a little. And it’s coming. Help is coming. This wise, protective energy will step in when your vulnerable and protect, helping you overcome the situation or problem that you’re in. You won’t have to feel like the world is against you. For some people this might even be yourself. You’ll gain that clarity, that inner strength from the strife and gain empathy for not only yourself but others. Maybe even develop a sharp, blunt tongue as a result too. You’ll be that strong figure you wanted to become. 

You’ve gone through or will go through a period of soul-searching, self-reflecting on the past, the actions that have happened that placed you in this circumstance in the first place. I always encourage a bit of introspection and getting a chance to address your own needs. It’s also an opportunity to step back and think and assess the situation. Look at it from a bigger perspective. Heck, if you need the services of a therapist or psychiatrist or what have you, go for it. ‘Ain’t no shame in that game. In finding yourself, you’ll gain a deeper understanding and just like that, swooping in like a knight in shining armor, your situation will change. Your struggling will lessen until it ceases and a large opportunity that you’ve been waiting for will present itself. This could also be your feminine figure/energy coming in like a knight ready to save you, but mind, it's coming in fast. So definitely seize the moment! Grab that opportunity when it presents itself. Be assertive and take what is yours. You deserve it. Take pride in who you’ve also evolved into because that heartbreak, betrayal, loneliness was inevitable in your growth to be the person you wanted to be. Not gonna lie, that shit sucks. That emotional depression and anguish that you faced is something not everyone can get through. But you did. Or will. And good luck, that lucky break you’ve always wanted, is coming. A change in karma and in circumstances. It’s going to be so good for you! But be mindful, that just because it's great doesn’t mean it's easy. Rest assured that the universe is working in your favor to help you reach your goals, just remember to focus on what it is you truly want specifically. The more specific the better. The universe, God, what have you, has a plan for you even if that plan is not clear to you at this point and guess where that leads you to?

Prosperity, security, a solid foundation, and abundance in ALL areas of your life, most especially that DINERO, aka cash. I can definitely see this delicious financial windfall coming in unexpectedly, or expectedly for some. There’s just this happy domestic harmony in your home and with your family, whether that’s a blood family or a found family. Whoever it is, it’s the type of resting peace from the culmination of everything you’ve worked so hard and struggled for. You’ll be leaving a legacy that you’ll be proud of. Life will be stable and settled.

So breathe easy! A personal issue will definitely reach its resolution. I know emotions are high, but sensitive towards others and also yourself in reaching for your goals or dreams. Definitely feel, vibe, embrace that kind, but confident feminine energy coming in and whatever family issues you're facing, that ridiculousness will be coming to an end so don’t even worry. This is definitely the time for you to step up as a kind leader and overcome your insecurities. Attack the situation from another angle. And don’t sulk!

Cards: Q of Swords, The Hermit, 3 of Swords & 10 of Pentacles

Clarifying: 5oP for Q of Swords, KNoS for Hermit, WoF for 3oS

Moonology Oracle: Full Moon in Cancer

Group 2

Whoo! I love me the energy of this group already. A time of celebration, reunion, parties and surprises is coming forth! You’ll be made to feel welcome and supported. A feeling of coming home and getting together with your loved ones is high here, especially with all the success, stability and prosperity coming along. Have pride in what you’ve accomplished or will accomplish because what you’ve done is WILD. I can definitely feel this conventional, traditional gift of wisdom and guidance coming in. Might some of you even be getting proposed to this month? Oh ho! For others, take it steady, take it slow, strategize whatever you’ve got planned in the works. Some of you might even plan to take a trip, start a new wonderful adventure that will shock your friends and family! If so, again please plan everything carefully. Stay on your toes! You don’t want to be caught unawares because that’s not fun. For others, you know, the lovelies that are getting married or forming a partnership with something or someone binding, legally or otherwise, but might have apprehensions about it because it feels so big and heavy, I tell you, do your research, plan that ‘ish. You don’t want to get caught in any lies or trickery or just unpreparedness. Look before you leap as they say. Wait, are some of you pregnant or planning to be? Congrats to you!! Once you do all that you need to the best of your ability and feel ready, the rest will be a positive new beginning! You're in or about to be on the verge of an exciting new time that will be quite the welcome change. It’s what you’ve been waiting for. 

For anyone facing any legal troubles or some situation that has called forth the consequences to someone’s actions (not you reading this, you know who you are), there’s going to be a crescendo of satisfying karmic justice that will bring harmony and balance to your life. You’ll have or will have an inner calm that allows you to adapt to any situation with a clear head and calm heart. That peace and contentment is the ultimate reward for you after all that you went through. 

So definitely stand firm in your beliefs for those of you who know you’re in the right. Have faith, it’ll all work out. And for those of you who know you should break the deadlock but don’t want to because of stubbornness or pride or what have you, stop digging your heels in! You benefit a lot more if you give in and it’ll help you avoid stagnation this month.

Cards: 4oW, The Hierophant, The Fool & Justice

Clarifying: 5oS for Hierophant & Temperance for Justice

Moonology Oracle: Fixed Moon

Group 3

A new presence, a feminine energy of wit, honesty, and intelligence is coming or has already arrived for some of you. For some it’s an older woman, possibly an air sign who will grant you some advice achieved from her past experience. For those of you who need it, I’d heed this advice, it’s a truth that can only benefit you. For some it’s even a realistic perspective that you yourself have gained from past strife and hardship. You’ve grown into the type of person who’s empathetic, supportive, a protector of others, offering your hard-gained perspective and knowledge. Forthright and ready to defend those who cannot defend themselves. Rest assured that this maturity and growth is a signal for a change in your life. The bad times are behind you or about to be if they aren’t already. February is the time for happiness, joyfulness and fulfillment! Yes babes, you’ll be able to accomplish anything that you’ve put your mind into. Expect triumph and success from all that you’ve achieved. That hard work you put in will not go unrecognized. I promise you! I even want to say you’re going to get everything that you wished thanks to that mental maturity and growth you underwent. See? It wasn’t all in vain. 

Hold your head high because your wishes are coming true and you're going to experience that happiness. I think some of you even figured out that looking at the bigger picture from a different perspective, the glass half full type, will give you what you’ve always wanted. Most especially emotional and spiritual fulfillment and healing. True happiness where you’re gonna be living your best life and enjoy that domestic bliss. You could even be enjoying those happy times with your family and savoring the moment. You should be feeling very happy and secure, total contentment with your family and partner even. Abundance is a given, lovely. As is feeling blessed for all that you’ve got. Reap those rewards and enjoy yourself.

I do feel as if there is this masculine energy coming in for some. There’s this introspection and contemplation going on that definitely feels life changing for some of you. It’s like a BIG DEAL. In attending to your needs and focusing on yourself, getting it on with that inward reflection, you will or have already triggered this change in your life which causes this mature, calm, compassionate masculine energy, an older male figure for others, to enter into your life. You’re definitely going to have a handle on your emotions and find that wisdom that will allow for a deeper emotional maturity. As a result, you’ll be more calm and sympathetic to not only yourself, but others as well. If it is a male figure, then he’s very caring, very on top of his feelings, charming, and just a really sweet and kind person. A water sign I’m feeling, or someone who’s just really secure in his emotions. He’s the type of person who is a good listener and just really easy-going. If you decide to let him into your life, then he’ll always be ready to give you some sound advice and be a calming influence in your life if you’re into guys like that. Good for you! If not, don’t sweat it either! This can easily border on platonic or romantic, however you want to slice it if you don’t have a partner already. However I do have to warn ya’ll that with this man, or this masculine energy coming that could be yourself or a someone else not necessarily a man, will bring about an important decision that you should make. One that will lead you to a new life, new adventure, a place just different from where you are now. It’s up to you to decide where you want to go in this crossroad. Like I can really see you being torn in two and maybe even in denial but I say just trust your gut, trust your instincts and do what feels best for yourself. Whatever you decide, this masculine energy will always be kind and generous towards you. They, or it, has this drive to be stable and dependable, someone or something you can rely on. There’s this giving, protective nature that surrounds them, or it, that will feel grounding and comforting even. I think this will even come in the form of money, like a lot of stable energy coming from that money. Gifts, knowledge, time even. I find that really nice and the intention isn’t malicious. It’s because they simply care and want to.

So definitely the end of a tough cycle approaches. Ya’ll have been through it and now the time has come for you to be done with that ‘ish. If you gotta leave some toxic work environment, DO IT. This is a sign! You don’t have time for that. If you truly want to pursue whatever goal you have in mind, as RuPaul says, you better work. Prepare to put in that effort and pull out all the stops! Without being mean or ruthless about it of course. Prioritize your personal life if you’ve let your work life take over. Face the reality, loves. You’ll feel less burdened about it once it’s over. So stop fearing the worst!

Cards: QoS, 10oC, Hermit, KoC & 6oP

Clarifying: 9oC for QoS, Tower for Hermit, 2oS for KoC & Emperor for 6oP

Moonology Oracle: Full Moon in Capricorn

Group 4

My heart goes out to those feeling trapped and restricted by your circumstances. Being backed into a corner, feeling helpless, hopeless, suffering from anxiety, terror, going through psychological distress, that shit is terrible. The drama you’re going through is not something you should be suffering through, and you know what? You won’t have to for long because this February, you’re going to be moving to calmer shores. You’re finally moving on to a healing phase that will allow you to escape from this anguish that you had found yourself a while ago. For those who remain skeptical, believe it or not, despite the powerlessness of the situation, there is a solution, a way out if you will. It’s not impossible and if you take a moment to gather yourself and look around, really look around, you’ll find that a lot of the fears you had were just negative thinking keeping you down. It doesn’t negate your feelings, mind you, because they are valid, but a solution was always possible if you decide to let it be possible. I think a lot of you realized that. Now is the time for the struggle to wane, and for the hardships that you’ve faced, to fade away. There’s stability in your future if you want it. At this point, problems in your life will be easier to deal with as it settles down. Some of you might even be escaping overseas, traveling, going on a holiday and just finding respite elsewhere. You might feel tired after going through it, but I’d keep faith if I were you. 

A lot of options of what path to take in your life are coming to you. Countless choices, possibilities. You’ll make some hard decisions and some of you might feel overwhelmed with it, but I would advise just trusting your gut and picking what you can stick to consistently. If you let yourself get distracted, that won’t do you any good and you might even end up picking a dead end. No point in agreeing to do many things if you can’t give it your time, attention and energy. So be realistic about what you can commit to, loves. Don’t stretch yourself thin and half-ass whatever you're getting into. Take care to do your research and plan what you have in mind. Being vigilant and patient with what whatever you’re working on, even on yourself, is something that you need to be methodical in because the potential of what you’re working on is MASSIVE. Like, almost pregnant. Are some of you going through pregnancy? Or making a choice relating to it? What a surprise for this month! If you are and this is the path you want, Kudos! I wish you all the best and may your planning be as thorough as it can be so you can breeze through this. If it’s not for you, may the lord, universe, what have you, deliver you so that no weapon formed against thee shall prosper 😂 But seriously, I support you all the way. Just definitely do your due diligence, even if you're not preggos. If it's for a project, get your ducks in a row because I guarantee you the journey will need some routine and structure. By the end of it all, you’ll be  self-disciplined and command authority using your head rather than ruling with your heart. You’ll definitely have mastered those raw emotions and brought calm to not only yourself, but to the situation at hand. You literally have all the skills you need to be successful, your focus should really be, if it isn’t already, on your inner worries and believing in yourself.  

For others, this could be a masculine air sign energy I’m picking up. Someone that you’re involved with maybe. They’re very loyal and proactive, also very intelligent, witty as heck too. They may need some taming but you’ll do so with positive reinforcements, compassion, and  gentle coaxing. If you’re single like a pringle, this could just be referring to your energy that your transforming into. From uncertainty and fear to confident King, here’s your crown babes 👑

So just remember, your dreams need a practical plan. I’m sensing that this is very important for this particular group. There’s a lot of emphasis on planning things. Use the law of attraction to draw in what you want but also take down-to-earth steps to planning your goals. Some of ya’lls fortunes could also change, but it depends on what you’ve done in the past and what you’ve attracted and the actions done that will determine how much shall be coming in. Jealousy and envy create negative energy so you def don’t want to attract that. Chase that dream, not the money. In chasing the dream, the money will naturally follow.

Cards: 8oS, 6oS, 7oC, PoS & KoS

Clarifying: Empress for PoS & Strength for KoS

Moonology Oracle: Full Moon in Taurus

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PAC Video Format TBA...

[my-fancy-hat]

After cooling down a bit (took an entire day to stop crying here and there) I can confidenly say Mob Pyscho 100 is a MUST watch show in your lifespan. No matter where you at right now or how old you are, I believe this story has this life-changing power that will always have something great and heart-warming to offer and bring a new perspective of things for everyone. Not only because it’s one of the most fulfilled adaptations from an original work where the dedication, love and passion of the studio radiates throught the screen to the viewers or how unique the animation is along side an amazing soundtrack and openings; what makes mob psycho this special and meaningful to so many people is the mature approaching and management of its backbone themes: change, empathy, humility, acceptance and connections. A well-puted, charming, sensible and personal coming of age story about a little kid who in fear of his nature and rejection shut himself from his marvels and rights to feel freely, meets a broken and loner adult starving for meaning to his existence, both complementing each other so well in a lasting but hopeful journey of personal grown to become just a good person. As the character progress or regress steps during seasons this finale left in such a positive and recomforting note, manteining all the references and cohesion to all of its characters’ personal themes, remaining true to themselves to the very end: you’re the only one, you’re imperfect but complete on your own, and to live to the fullest and to be a person of well you have to know and accept yourself. Mob and Reigen finally coming to terms with their falsehood exposing their helpless and genuinest selfs to each other, and both giving to the other acceptance of what they saw, them as whole. Reigen lies let Mob enter his life and Mob’s powers made him who he is; without this facades and worst they wouldn’t have meet and fundamentally changed their lifes, so there’s always something good to take of everything and keep on. Thanks to the positive impact they made into the world and all the amazing people they let in in their lifes they’re able to change, because it is the love of their surroundings they’re learning to love themselves.

Mob Psycho left me with a similar taste in my mouth like Everything Everywhere All at Once did. I met the show in a very delicate moment of my life where all paths were uncertain but promising. It’s fondness and softness dropped in my year just in the moment I needed them the most ("I decided to consider my feelings more, and you have to pick up the things that are important" altered my brain chemistry forever may say), as a gentle hand rubbing my back every week, it sure had a positive influence in my own healing process and rehabilitation. I’m grateful to have experienced this work of art in this timeline and it will stick up with me as one of those special and precious stories you hold close to the heart, truly. No words exaggerating in here, I consider Mob Psycho 100 peak fiction and one of my favorites of all time, and Reigen is my babygirl.

[motheatenscarf]

Okay, here's me saying something positive.

I like the reveal of Wuk Lama's birth father not being a world shaking thing. It hammers home the point about chosen families that Tural itself and Wuk Lamat's own family represent.

I like that Bakuul Ja Ja thinks it will devastate her because bloodlines, lineage, birthrights, those are what matter to him and his people from his perspective. He is the product of eugenics, ergo, in his eyes, her birth father MUST be the most important revelation to her and something he can weaponize. That's good characterization for him.

Her birth father choosing not to directly acknowledge it, but speak around it is also good. He knows he gave her up for a good reason and that Galuul Ja Ja is the one who raised her and therefore the only one who has the right to call her father. He doesn't want to throw her life into chaos or threaten her claim to the throne by stepping into her life NOW. As badly as he wanted to raise her himself, as much as he loved her, this is the path he chose and he's resolved to it.

He says none of these things out loud!

And yet Wuk Lamat still understands them through careful phrasing, body language and emotive expressions. She has never expressed curiosity over her origins and states as much in text that as far as she's concerned, she has only the one parent and needs no others. She is comfortable and secure in the knowledge that she is adopted and takes great pride in being part of a chosen family. When confronted with meeting her birth father, she doesn't reject him and also doesn't press. He's kind and says as much as he can without giving away the entire truth to her, and she respects that while leaving the door open.

There's a quiet little exchange after the succession ceremony where she meets back up again with the allies she made along the way. Her birth father says something to the effect of, "Your father must be so proud" to describe how the former Dawnservant feels to see her take up his mantle. Wuk Lamat smiles and says that yes, he is, but it does sometimes make her wonder what her birth parents would say to see her now. He smiles back and says he'd imagine that they'd find their hearts filled with joy to see the strong, compassionate woman she's become.

It's a good moment. I like this moment a lot. It's great characterization for Wuk Lamat too. To me this is the best and most compelling example of her being compassionate, insightful, and supportive of others. It's mature, understated, and dignified.

[weekend-whip]

What's your opinion on the "love at first sight" thing from ninjago? And do you have any headcanon With Pixal an Skylor?

Short Answer: Very 50/50 with it. Love what we did get from it, but by god the executions could have been handled better. 

You sly dog, you got me monologuing. Going slightly off-topic cuz i have THOUGHTS

Long Answer: On one hand, it was already a bold enough move to include even a little romance in a toy commercial aimed a young boys, especially when it was so far from the premise of the show to begin with, so I’m not all that torn up about these things happening “too quick”. From one perspective, it’s just another little facet about the characters that helps drive them in the future, and doesn’t necessarily have to be explored deeper, because that’s not the overall point of the story (unless it’s tied with the plot of the season itself, and at least then it does get well-deserved focus). 

On the other hand, I can absolutely understand why people would find it forced, rushed, or unnecessary (or in Kailor’s case, not doing enough), and that’s valid too. If they really were going to go this route, especially with Zane, then they should’ve at least dedicated an episode of them finding the foundation for a bond rather than swan diving into infatuation. Like I’ve said in my fic, it’s hard to be invested in something that happens offscreen lmao. And there’s also the whole thing of these girls juts being brought into the picture to be love interests, rather than having a full dedicated character of their own. Nya’s obviously somewhat of an exception, and Pixal and Skylor do get their moments (eventually), but generally they’re left very flat if they’re not with the object of their affections. 

Jay, while instantly falling for Nya, gets several seasons worth of ups and down that have impact on their characters until it accumulates which, while that might drive people to believe their relationship is “bad” just because it wasn’t consistently perfect, I found them much more interesting because they had to go through the growing pains to get where they are now. They did get together too quick, especially when Nya wasn’t really giving off any “I have a crush” vibes but liked Jay’s attention. And while they did have several communication bumps and disagreements, they were still able to take a step back, reexamine themselves, and readjust enough to the point that they’re practically married now! And they’re happy! I love it! I really, genuinely do! And I know that Jaya tends to cannibalize Jay’s character as an individual too, but she’s just that big of a part of his life. It’s not that he doesn’t have things he likes to do on his own; he just prefers to do them with her. But, it’s just gotta be in a way that respects Nya’s boundaries and her own preference of doing things on her own. Which is something they come to an agreement about!! And it’s good!! 

But then, you’ve got Zane and Pixal just looking at each other and becoming a thing within like three episodes. Not even a “Zane takes Pixal out in the city and shows her how to be more human” kind of episode, no “Pixal helps him get in better touch with his technological side”, nah! Things you’d think you’d get in a Zane season! She just dies, Zane literally breaks his heart for her, and then suddenly they’re the most adorable thing to happen on the whole show sdfghjkhgf. It’s tragic, honestly! That they have this much great chemistry together but next to nothing to show for it besides life or death circumstances!! I literally wrote a fic on that too! Because as much as I love them and their ship and the strength of their give and take, how they started I just cannot get over! Even if Zane fell immediately, there could have been some interesting tension between him dealing with his new feelings and Pixal realizing that she has feelings to begin with! Just some missed opportunities there, really. 

And then—oooh, and then! Kai and Skylor! If anyone I could believe would fall at first sight, it would be Kai! And it’s hilarious, because he’s flirted with other people in the past and now here he is, suddenly and genuinely interested in this intriguing and probably very attractive individual and his usual flirty tricks aren’t always working!! Which would then make him reexamine himself and also actually talk to Skylor to see if they could even work to begin with!!  Or Kai manages to show Skylor some of what’s she’s missed out on while presumably living her whole life on the island and oop there she goes catching some feelings and then we get to see her QUESTION some of her morally dubious actions!! But that’s not what we got lmfao!!!!! That being said, watching them play off of each other is SO much fun, ESPECIALLY when they’re working together running from Chen in the jungle AND THEY HUG but ummmmm...we still know next to nothing about Skylor. I love Skylor, and I ADORE Kailor, but both of them deserve more than a orange piece of cardboard that’s sassy and clever sometimes *lies down* I’m so sorry sweetie it’s NOT your FAULT

aND ON ONE HAND, I’m insane and actually do kind of like that they’re keeping their relationship out of the light, and it gets to develop on their own terms at their own pace without having to be put on a pedestal for others. That avoids the problems Jaya went through. Maybe they are kinda together, maybe they don’t have a label for it, maybe they’re nervous about making the first move, maybe they’ve been a thing the whole time, but it’s no one else’s business! We get glimpses every now and then that show they still have eyes for one another, or that they’re important to one another, and that’s okay!! It can be enough!!! They’re spicy but they’re also subtle and that’s lovely in it’s own way!!

.....But of course, that only works if it was intentional, and by Crystalized we sure know it wasn’t!!! And the true horrid irony of it all was that how they handled it in Crystalized could’ve been something we’d gotten the whole time, yet the blows would have been cushioned by the fact we would’ve have time to absorb this over the seasons, rather than smacked over the head with it in the clutch. And yet, as much as I wanna be sad that we didn’t get more, or at least sooner, what we did get was just so THEM that i can’t be fully mad!! Kai’s still fumbling but he knows what he wants and can voice it; Skylor’s uncertain but willing to hear him out and wants to hear him out, but they still have silent moments of understanding and can and will take the time to talk things out when they’re able an hnnnnng i love them so muuuuuuuch aaaaaaugh why did i write three paragraphs about kailoooooor kill meeeee

So anyway love at first sight isn’t inherently bad, but it’s how you handle the follow up of it afterward that makes it either something to loathe or something to at least come to appreciate *shrug* 

And I know you also asked for headcanons but aaaaah everything that’s a hc of mine is probably going to wind up in Legacyverse, and I don’t wanna spoil too many small surprises x3 

[voxasks]

🫐 -Hey there, why not get in on this, haha. Let's go, show me what ya got TV man- Jokes aside, I am a young woman in her 20s going to university for a psychology degree. I am very ambitous & goal oriented, even if it is sometimes very intense. To the point of hyperfixation bordering on obsession. I was going for journalism originally, but I changed majors because I didn't like how much I would have to lick the butts & shoes of yellow journalists who aren't worth my respect or time. I wanted to be part of the information side of things & keep people informed on the happenings around them. But all they do from my perspective is waste hours churning out fiction for views. If I wanted to do that, I would have pursued acting as a career, which is a hobby of mine. I like community theater a lot. It is a fun escape from everything. Something just so satisfying about putting on a show, where the moment I step out on that stage & feel those lights & eyes on me, I am no longer concerned with my problems. The mask is on & won't be off until later~! Music is my other passion. I love writing my own music and lyrics. I play the violin, piano, & guitar. I am taking singing lessons for fun too. My few friends describe me as the one they look to for honest opinions, even if it might not be something they want to hear. I am also weirdly regarded as a ball of energy. I am not a recluse, I just have intense trust issues. It is probably due to the pathetic jokes of relationships I have had, among other potential trauma inducing experiences. I love going out, just only with people I would trust my life with or myself. I am still quite introverted, but I do like the atmosphere of people having a great time & me having a good time, even if it is dancing on my own. If I feel like it, I will just make the decision to disappear for a weekend & hop back around come Monday like I didn't just drop off the planet to who knows where & do who knows what. I am used to the not so great side of life. Walking to school, seeing a dead body on the side of the road, later on seeing those infamous white lines, hahaha. What a day that was, or the time I had to hit the deck from a drive-by. You get used to that rough life than wham in a place that is weirdly sanitized and "safe." It feels like whiplash. I cope with my experiences with humor. Rather laugh than cry, you know. Psych became my interest after taking a random elective in it, & I was hooked on being able to make connections about the world & people around me. Giving me a sense of understanding some of the why's I have asked for years. I'm still learning more, too. I have some ideas that are not exactly conventional & push a few boundaries with other fields of science & ethics. Regardless, I hope to use the knowledge I am gaining to help others help themselves. I think that is a key component in life, to be able to help yourself, even if it means getting/seeking help in order to get to a place where you can do that for yourself. If that makes any sense. With all this said, enjoy your hellish morning, abysmal afternoon, explicit evening, or sinful night. Whichever it may be for you, I like to cover the bases~!

“it  feels  like  you  took  psychology  to  make  sense  of  the  things  that  has  happened  in  your  life  subconsciously.  at  least,  that’s  what  people  do  from  experience  anyway.  it  sort  of  feels  like  you  have  adhd  as  well  due  to  your  spontaneity,  being  described  as  a  ‘ball  of  energy’  and  having  many  interests,  but  hey,  i’m  far  from  being  some  lab  coat  shrink  who’s  qualified  enough  to  sit  behind  a  desk  to  rot  with  everyone  else’s  trauma.  you  want  to  stay  true  to  yourself  no  matter  what,  thus  opting  out  of  journalism  to  avoid  kissing  other  people’s  asses,  i  can  respect  that.  you  sound  ambiverted,  someone  who  struggles  to  find  the  comfortable  balance  sometimes  but  everyone  does  too.  and  hey,  a  dead  body.  must  be  a  big  deal  back  in  the  living  world,  huh?  how’ve  you  been?”

based off of the 200 follower event.

[starseedfxofficial]

Unlocking Hidden Opportunities: A Guide to Multi-Timeframe Analysis with EURUSD In the world of Forex, traders are often in pursuit of the elusive "holy grail" strategy—something that guarantees profits without risks. Well, spoiler alert: it doesn’t exist. But there are ways to give yourself a better chance of success, and one of those is multi-timeframe analysis. Especially when dealing with a popular pair like EURUSD, leveraging multiple timeframes can make the difference between a successful trade and a classic "facepalm" moment. Grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s explore the lesser-known secrets of mastering multi-timeframe analysis. And yes, we promise there won’t be any charts that look like kindergarten finger paintings. Step Away from the Microscope: The Big Picture Perspective Most traders make the mistake of staring too long at the 5-minute chart, hoping to catch every tick as if it were some treasure hunt. Let’s be real—when you’re zoomed in on that level, even a small twitch in the market can feel like a major earthquake. Imagine this: you're planning a road trip, but you’re only looking at a map of a single street. Doesn’t make sense, right? The same concept applies to Forex trading. Multi-timeframe analysis begins with stepping back to look at the big picture—analyzing daily, weekly, and even monthly trends before zooming in. So, take a breath and start with the higher timeframes. The daily and weekly charts give you context—sort of like your parents giving you "the talk" about life. Understand the major trends, identify key support and resistance levels, and get a feel for where the market is heading in the grand scheme of things. Only then should you dive into the lower timeframes. The Three-Step Multi-Timeframe Magic Trick Now, let’s break down multi-timeframe analysis into three simple steps—because who doesn’t love a good three-step magic trick? It’s like sawing a lady in half, except the only thing getting sliced is your bad trading habits. - Identify the Trend on a Higher Timeframe: Start with the weekly chart. Determine whether EURUSD is in an uptrend, downtrend, or range-bound. This gives you a clear direction. Think of it as understanding the weather forecast—if you know it’s going to rain, you’ll carry an umbrella (or at least mentally prepare for wet socks). - Refine on the Daily Chart: Zoom into the daily chart. This is where you refine your understanding of the trend. Look for support and resistance levels that align with your weekly analysis. Essentially, you’re looking for confirmation—like making sure that Tinder date actually looks like their profile picture. - Execute on the Lower Timeframe: Finally, move to the 4-hour or 1-hour chart to find an entry. You’ve done the hard work, you know the trend, and now it’s all about precision. Here’s where you look for candlestick patterns, moving averages, or other indicators to find the optimal point to enter the trade. Common Pitfalls—And How to Avoid Them Multi-timeframe analysis can sound great in theory, but let’s be real—there are traps. Here’s a common one: analysis paralysis. It’s when you get so caught up looking at every timeframe that you forget the market doesn’t actually care about your perfect Fibonacci retracement setup. It just moves. The trick is to make a decision, set your stop loss, and let the trade run its course. Trust your analysis and accept that not every trade will work out. Another pitfall is contradictory signals across different timeframes. For instance, the weekly chart might show an uptrend, while the daily is screaming downtrend. It’s like getting into an argument with your GPS—“Turn left!” “No, go straight!” In these scenarios, patience is key. Wait for the signals to align before jumping in, or use smaller positions if you decide to trade against the higher timeframe trend. Elite Tactics for the Pros If you’ve been around the Forex block a few times, you know that everyone talks about "patience" and "discipline." Sure, those are important, but let’s talk about some advanced tricks for multi-timeframe analysis. One such tactic is using moving averages on multiple timeframes to gauge market strength. If the 50-period moving average on the daily chart aligns with the 200-period moving average on the 4-hour chart, you’ve got yourself a solid confluence signal—almost like seeing a double rainbow. You know it’s special. Another advanced move? Pay attention to divergence on higher timeframes, like the daily or weekly, and then use that knowledge to guide your entries on smaller timeframes. Divergence can act as an early warning system, much like the sound of the ice cream truck—you know something good is coming your way (unless it’s the wrong trend, then it’s just an empty promise). Case Study: EURUSD’s 2023 Shake-Up Let’s look at EURUSD during 2023, where it made significant moves post-ECB announcements. Traders using only lower timeframes were caught off guard by sudden reversals, while those practicing multi-timeframe analysis had context—they saw the bigger picture of monetary policy shifts. By combining weekly chart insights with the daily and 4-hour charts, they managed to enter and exit trades with precision, capitalizing on what seemed like unpredictable swings to the untrained eye. The Market Rewards the Patient—And the Prepared Multi-timeframe analysis isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the backbone of making informed decisions. By seeing the forest and the trees, you gain insights that most traders overlook. So, next time you find yourself staring at the 15-minute chart wondering why your stop loss got hit, take a step back. Re-evaluate, plan your trades from a higher perspective, and remember: the market rewards those who are both patient and prepared. Oh, and if you want more exclusive tips like these, check out our Forex Education or consider joining our community for daily analysis, live insights, and a bunch of other cool stuff. You’re just a click away from the inside scoop on mastering the art of Forex trading. —————– Image Credits: Cover image at the top is AI-generated Read the full article

[lanemarvels]

The former athlete

While lying in my bed writing this, my body is completely wrecked.

If I had known that after a little over two years of not playing volleyball, I would wake up the next couple of days feeling like I got run over by a train, I would’ve probably never signed up for this class. Well, what else did you expect supergirl?

As I pop another painkiller, I’ve completely accepted that once this semester is over, I will not step foot on a volleyball court again with the intent to play. Shockingly, I’m okay with that. Sure, I know my body will adapt, and the fact that I can’t turn my neck to my left will eventually subside as the weeks go on, and maybe the pain that I’m feeling is exaggerating my feelings about this. But there is a glaring sign that this chapter of my life is at a close:

It didn’t feel worth it to me.

All of my old teammates and coaches are side-eyeing me right now.

Because how can a woman who dedicated the last fifteen years of her life to being an athlete not want to return to it? Some would kill for the opportunity to play again and here I am complaining. 

I almost feel selfish in admitting that, but I promised to be real. And if I’m being truthful, there was not a moment while I was playing that didn’t feel like it was a chore.

Maybe if I were to play with my old college teammates I would have a different perspective, but I can’t for the life of me imagine being on the court again and feeling emotionally fulfilled by it. I took this class because I wanted to do it with my sister, and I hoped to get into better shape again– clearly, I needed that. But the decision to suit up in my old knee pads and ankle braces never came from the notion that I missed it. That’s what I struggle with.

I’ve thought a lot about my career since I stopped playing during the height of the Covid lockdown. I have waited long for that moment to happen. The moment that all coaches and all former athletes tell you about through your career– the day that you’d do anything to go back in time and play again. To be fair, maybe that moment hasn’t come for me yet. But as the days since being an athlete pass, and that life seems further and further from my identity, I wonder if I ever will experience that moment.

As I slumped into bed after class, already aching, my sister laughed, “I thought you were going to take it easy today?”

We both found humor in the fact that I was practically debilitated. Unlike me, she was still playing in some rec leagues, so she’s not sore like me. And trust me, I really did try to take it easy. In fact, I guarantee if you were to ask my former coaches, I wasn’t doing nearly enough to be considered great. Though given the fact my entire thigh hurts to put pressure on, I probably could’ve afforded to let a ball or two drop. But maybe that was the problem. I realized that no matter how much time has passed, or no matter what the stakes are– when it comes to sports I simply do not know how to take it easy.

Athletic performance is a performance. I have come to a point in my engagement with sport that I do not know how to not perform. Maybe that is why it is exhausting to me not only physically, but mentally. Taking plays off or giving half-assed effort is completely unacceptable. We are not taught as athletes to be average, only our best. And so, my body suffers.

“That’s what you get for going all out!” My mom said light-heartedly after I told her about my bedridden state. 

“Hey, it’s not my fault it’s muscle memory at this point. I wasn’t yelled at by [redacted] for years just to let a ball drop!” I responded. We both found humor in this, and I’m glad that now I can in some aspects.

It made me wonder though. Am I a person who was great at sports but never loved them, or was the love of sports something that was taken from me through time? Would I perhaps have already had my moment if I didn’t have such a bad taste in my mouth after what had occurred in my career? If I had experienced a lifetime of great coaches who didn’t tear me down, would I have missed being an athlete? Would the pain that I am experiencing now feel worth it to me? I hope the more that I delve into it, those answers will become clear to me.

There was some good to come from playing again though. Playing as a former athlete vs. a current athlete is different. It relieved a lot of the pressure that I used to put on myself when I played. I didn’t have the same desire to impress or perform for everyone that I once did. It wasn’t as intense. The eyes that watched me were suddenly quieter and funnily enough, I played along in the smack talk between players. I would’ve never done that as a current athlete. I was always a person who let my playing do the talking for me. But as a former athlete with nothing to lose? Hell, bring it on. It was fun to play into the banter, all good-spirited of course. In the past, if I even considered competitive banter, and couldn’t back it up, I would’ve felt humiliated. Now, if someone talks smack, I see it as a challenge to rise to, not to back away from. If I lose? Bring it on, it won’t happen again.

Have I really become more confident in my abilities as a former athlete than when I was currently playing? Was I compensating for the fact I wasn’t in my prime anymore? Maybe. But then again, as someone who never dared to have confidence out of fear of cockiness; it felt great to finally stand there and say yeah, come and get me, I dare you.

In that way, maybe there is something that can be learned from taking this volleyball course and getting back into it. Even if it’s not exactly the fun time I expected it to be, maybe there is still more to learn about my relationship to athleticism throughout it. I can’t promise that I’m going to always look forward to it, but maybe this is a way for me to have a sense of closure with volleyball that I never truly got to have. Maybe as these weeks continue, and my body finally grows stronger again, my understanding of my athletic side will deepen as well.

And here I thought I was done having growing pains.

[queenpiranhadon]

😭

Grief is when your Alexa plays Change from Steven Universe and then immediately played the full We Are the Crystal Gems intro that Steven writes when he's 14.

spoilers below the cut!

Just think about it. Please.

Now, I know this conversation has been brought up amongst many different fandoms when it comes to leaving it to freaking CHILDREN to save the world, but just think about it from Steven's perspective.

The kid's 13 when the series starts, THIRTEEN. And to so many people including myself that's normal.

But Steven is far from normal, even more than typical coming of age/fantasy protagonists. Most of these characters, whether it be Percy Jackson, or Harry Potter, or even Sophie Foster, have had some mentor and a large group of friends to support them every step of the way.

Now obviously, no one is exactly like these people, at the time, Percy and everyone around him figured him to be the child of the Great Prophecy, and had to come to terms with dying at the tender age of 15. But Percy had the entirety of Camp Halfblood with him.

Harry was the literal Chosen One, having to fight against Voldemort, ACTUALLY DIE, and make decisions that even his predecessors couldn't do. But Harry had all of Hogwarts to back him up.

Sophie's the freaking moonlark, she's got to save the world with her funky genetics and highly powerful abilities even though she's still figuring everything out. But Sophie had all her friends, their families (sans Keefe), the Council on occasion and the entire Black Swan to aid her when she needed it.

But in Steven's universe (haha get it?) he's the only one just like him. Sure Sophie's ultra powerful, but she's not the only elf. Sure Harry's the chosen one, but he's not the only wizard. Percy's not the only demigod either.

But Steven?

He's so uniquely different, so enigmatic that absolutely no one could possibly relate to him whatsoever because his situation is so tragic and yet so intricate that he's really all alone. Sure, he has the Crystal gems, his dad, Connie, Onion, and whoever else you want to say.

But are any of them anything like him?

The gems lack human genetics, therefore he feels more vulnerable around them, not quite these celestial all mighty beings that was really never die if their gem is never shattered.

Greg, Connie, Onion, all his human friends, they experience humanity to the fullest, being able to experience aging, change, just the sheer ability to live, something Steven can do, but yet, it's still different, he's still left out, because of his gem DNA.

The diamonds? All they see is Pink Diamond, and all Steven is, is a little boy who's sick and tired of playing janitor for matters way above his own.

A fourteen year old, playing diplomat for three ultra powerful beings with attachment issues and the ability to warp their own kind??

These days, all fourteen year olds worry about are their finals, and whether or not their crush likes them (though to be fair, Steven has his own fair share of that).

But the real kicker is that everyone else had a chance at a normal life.

Harry lived without the knowledge of magic for eleven years, Percy and Sophie around the same age.

Steven was introduced to this crazy world of gems since he was born, and he loved it.

He didn't feel the stress or the burden of being who he was, he just was happy being who we was.

He never faced the struggle of just fitting in and finding out who he was in a world of chaos, he was really just…Steven

So you can imagine the horror he must’ve went through went his whole world, his space, his bubble, turns into knives the moment the lies start unraveling into one giant conspiracy.

Any other protagonist knew the dangers of their world and knew the risks they would have to face. A world of loneliness turned into one of belonging

Steven?

He had to face a world of belonging finally turning into one of loneliness.

To me, the world form of torture is to give someone happiness and then take it away.

[dumbbitchfrommars]

Okay I had to just post that because the train of thought had completely gone

So

I want to journal but I can’t write right now. I cant do much. I’m exhausted by simply everything. I think I’m nearing a burnout…

The guys from uni have invited me out to town on top of the ball that I opted for because another uni friend invited me. Socialising like this is what I wanted, no? Then why do I feel completely exhausted by the thought of it all?

I know it will be so fun and I’m looking forward to it. But I’m a little worried that I’m more excited tk drink than tk spend time with eveyone. And I’m also more apprehensive about going because I know that I will be drinking a lot. Which means another week of recovery. Why do I keep putting myself through this hell? For the sake of fun? Why can’t I have fun without drinking? It’s too hard to go out and be the sober friend. But the lengths I’ve been going to just so I can drink and save my money/time/energy is actually lowkey defeating the purpose. I’m so exhausted. But I did successfully plan my outfit and my day ahead so everything can go smoothly with no stress. Stress now to avoid stress later. My life’s work.

Anyway. I guess I wanted to invite my work bestie along because I’m paranoid about going with the uni gang. Two of them are lowkey mean and one is the sweetest girl but obviously not much of a town goer. And the other has a boyfriend. And overall I’m not close with any of them so I have no fall back in case they flake or I need to dip cause the vibes are bad. Basically I have no failsafe.

But my heart is open! I am protected! God wants the best for me. There were very small inconveniences today because I didn’t hear my intuition. But I guess I’m just a little scared that they will turn from small to bigger and more painful in inconveniences for me.

I don’t know why I had this thought but… the amount of panic and effort and energy I went to not only to get a little gift for my friend but also to rush over when I was running late for her thesis talk.. well, I don’t know why but I don’t think she would have done the same for me. But I love her anyway and I understand her and I’m willing to compromise for her because I know she does care and appreciates me.

But the others… I guess I’m wary. To learn that they’re all private school kids. Tbh I love them all it’s just Tess and Noah. Something is slightly off there. Like why is there so much anger and hate in your heart? What is missing? That you have to take it all out on innocent people… her story today was such a red flag. And her being close minded about me wanting to buy sage and incense.

But as I said before. I am loved. And I am appreciated. And if I feel like I am not receiving the love and respect that I know I am worthy of and deserve, I can easily step away and give my time and attention to someone else who will meet that need. !!!!!!!!! I AM SO GROWN FOR THAT!!! wow. I really slayed the game. I really do be slaying the game lately. I can’t wait for tomorrow, actually. I just needed to recenter my perspective.

I’m very tired and have a headache and feel a bit overwhelmed. But I have a great day and an even better week ahead of me. I will submit my request for an extension and ease some of the pressure about doing my report. I’m gonna drive to melb with my bestie and see one of my fave singers. And I’ve attracted so many new and wonderful connections and friendships into my life that I am just surrounded by love and beautiful and joy and happiness. Slayed.

My little catchphrase lately is slay. Idc if it’s annoying.

Now to contemplate watching the Taurus’s story… not the Pisces moon one. He’s been BLOCKED. tyvm. Literally felt my heart open up to new opportunities the second it happened. But the other Taurus. The pretty boy. Libra moon. Anyway. I’m gonna look but I’m gonna try stay detached. I’m simply curious, okay god!! Let me have my moments. We’re friends. We’re vaguely connected now, and everytime I think of him I remember him hitting it from behind. It wasn’t even good. Just the feeling of his body weight pressing mine down. And my ass squishing up against him. Like okay she slayed. I swear it’s like I woke up one day and decided I have the fattest fucking ass. I love being a confident baddie. I really do have a fatty tho. It’s like uncomfortably large. I be catching looks left right and centre.

That’s another thing!! All of the sudden… I catch everyone’s attention. Is it because I try so hard to not give anyone my attention? I have anxiety! I don’t want to make eye contact. Also I genuinely think there is some kind of magic or energetic exchange that occurs when I make eye contact with someone. It’s a bit scary. So I’d rather stay in my own world. But I think it does attract a lot of attention. Combined with me having really good and unique style and dark skin and tats and also being such a pretty girl. Anyway. Enough being egotistical. It’s just interesting.