#there are only two options: success or growth

[magicaldragons]

writing.

things i've learned throughout the years

speaking from personal experience, writing, whether it's for a fic or an original work, is a process that comes to everyone very differently. which is also why it took me a WHILE to figure out what worked for me.

you've definitely heard this one before, but: 1. do not worry about making your first draft perfect. it will seem terrible, and that's ok.

it's the most common writing advice i've always heard as well, and i always understood what it meant, logically, but it was a piece of advice that was very hard to follow.

the second i gave myself permission to suck, though – the moment i said "i'm going to write trash," is when everything started flowing so much more easily.

it helps IMMENSELY to just push ahead and write whatever comes to you in the moment. do not start searching up synonyms. (yeah, i see you) and if you hate a word or phrase, put a *** next to it and come back later. chances are, you'll change your mind after seeing it from a new perspective, or be able to come up with something to replace it with.

it's always easier to edit than write from scratch, so give yourself material you can edit.

2. write for yourself. write what you love – what you would read.

it definitely draws people in more than any formula you think works or a piece you deliberately craft for a specific audience.

3. as long as your writing is comprehensible, grammar means little in front of the emotion your work conveys

i've read so many works that have left such a profound effect on me, solely because i could feel the amount of heart the author poured into it, it's always easy to look past minor mistakes, as long as what the writer says makes sense.

4. most importantly, when you're starting on that path of developing your writing skills, don't show your work to anybody. hear me out:

i've written about seven stories (for various fandoms) that will never see the light of day – not because i dislike them, but because i now realize, i had to write them for me.

and these stories (and the evident progress in my storytelling skils across all of them) are what give me the most confidence when i doubt my skills.

you can always share your works in the future, but the first couple of times you venture out with a vision in mind, make yourself your audience, it prevents you from diluting your ideas with expectations of other people's perceptions.

+ and finally, a bonus point:

a lot of the writing process, is just discovering yourself, in various ways

i always used to hear writers say:

"my characters did this on their own" or "the story just wrote itself like this"

and i never understood, because MY characters never did anything of their volition, in fact, they refused to do what i intended for them to and it would be a struggle to write a scene sometimes

and again recently i had that same problem, where i couldn't for the life of me, figure out how to describe a character performing a particular action. i waited for days for any sort of inspiration or logic to strike me, but it wasn't working.

i surprised even myself though, when i highlighted the whole section and deleted it.

but as soon as i let go of writing that one scene the way i'd planned it, a completely new option presented itself, and writing THAT scene was so much easier.

so no. my characters never tell me what to do, but they tell me what they don't want to do, and the realization that common experiences in writing will manifest differently in different people, really made me realize that writing is something you should follow your instincts in.

technicality-wise, you will always keep learning and improving. growth never stops.

so it's important to do what feels true to you, and do it in a way that makes YOU feel comfortable, whether that includes taking risks, being spontaneous, or starting small.

that's when some of the best things are created.

[reasonsforhope]

"A team at Northwestern University has come up with the term “dancing molecules” to describe an invention of synthetic nanofibers which they say have the potential to quicken the regeneration of cartilage damage beyond what our body is capable of.

The moniker was coined back in November 2021, when the same team introduced an injection of these molecules to repair tissues and reverse paralysis after severe spinal cord injuries in mice.

Now they’ve applied the same therapeutic strategy to damaged human cartilage cells. In a new study, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, the treatment activated the gene expression necessary to regenerate cartilage within just four hours.

And, after only three days, the human cells produced protein components needed for cartilage regeneration, something humans can’t do in adulthood.

The conceptual mechanisms of the dancing molecules work through cellular receptors located on the exterior of the cell membrane. These receptors are the gateways for thousands of compounds that run a myriad of processes in biology, but they exist in dense crowds constantly moving about on the cell membrane.

The dancing molecules quickly form synthetic nanofibers that move according to their chemical structure. They mimic the extracellular matrix of the surrounding tissue, and by ‘dancing’ these fibers can keep up with the movement of the cell receptors. By adding biological signaling receptors, the whole assemblage can functionally move and communicate with cells like natural biology.

“Cellular receptors constantly move around,” said Northwestern Professor of Materials Sciences Samuel Stupp, who led the study. “By making our molecules move, ‘dance’ or even leap temporarily out of these structures, known as supramolecular polymers, they are able to connect more effectively with receptors.”

The target of their work is the nearly 530 million people around the globe living with osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease in which tissues in joints break down over time, resulting in one of the most common forms of morbidity and disability.

“Current treatments aim to slow disease progression or postpone inevitable joint replacement,” Stupp said. “There are no regenerative options because humans do not have an inherent capacity to regenerate cartilage in adulthood.”

In the new study, Stupp and his team looked to the receptors for a specific protein critical for cartilage formation and maintenance. To target this receptor, the team developed a new circular peptide that mimics the bioactive signal of the protein, which is called transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFb-1).

Northwestern U. Press then reported that the researchers incorporated this peptide into two different molecules that interact to form supramolecular polymers in water, each with the same ability to mimic TGFb-1...

“With the success of the study in human cartilage cells, we predict that cartilage regeneration will be greatly enhanced when used in highly translational pre-clinical models,” Stupp said. “It should develop into a novel bioactive material for regeneration of cartilage tissue in joints.”

“We are beginning to see the tremendous breadth of conditions that this fundamental discovery on ‘dancing molecules’ could apply to,” Stupp said. “Controlling supramolecular motion through chemical design appears to be a powerful tool to increase efficacy for a range of regenerative therapies.”"

-via Good News Network, August 5, 2024

[tinytarotandtea]

「 ✦ PICK A CARD✦ 」

What type of comfort do you need right now?

Masterlist GET YOUR PERSONAL PAID READING HERE <33 Directions: Take a moment to breathe, calm down and focus as you choose a picture from above. From left to right is pile 1, 2 and 3. Then Scroll down to your pile! Please remember to only take what resonates with you and leave the rest 🫶

Pile One -

Cards Pulled - Nine of Wands • Ace of Cups • Knight of Pentacles.

Hello pile one, my dolls! 🫶

The Nine of Wands here is all about courage, success and recovery. It shows that you've defended your territory and demonstrated great strength. But, now, it is time to allow yourself rest. You're in a space where you've conquered and proven yourself resilient, and that, in itself, is a comfort. You're safe to breathe and let your guard down, don't worry.

The Ace of Cups points to new beginnings in love, creativity, and emotional openness. The comfort you need right now is to let yourself feel the joy that comes with that. Open your heart to new connections, new passions, and gentle emotional renewal.

The Knight of Pentacles reminds you that comfort also comes through consistency and trust in slow, steady growth. You don't need to rush. Building small and reliable habits and taking things one step at a time will offer you the deep and grounding comfort you need.

So, my lovelies, the comfort you need right now is rest, emotional renewal and permission to move steadily forward without pressure. Trust your strength and open your heart, and know that steady progress is enough.

Pile Two -

Cards Pulled - Page of Cups reversed • Two of Cups • Four of Pentacles.

Hello my darling pile two!

When reversed, the Page of Cups suggesting that the comfort you need right now comes from compassion and emotional grounding. Perhaps you've been feeling disconnected from your inner voice, your creativity, or your emotional intuition. Instead of putting pressure on yourself to be imaginative, or open-hearted, allow yourself the comfort of simply feeling what you feel without judgement. It's okay to be in a quieter and more introspective space.

The Two of Wands is pointing you needing comfort through vision and planning. Even if you're not ready to take big actions yet, dreaming about your future and considering your options or making gentle plans can help soothe those feelings of uncertainty. Comfort comes through knowing that you are allowed to have hope and direction, even if you're not ready to move yet.

The Four of Pentacles is here to remind you that comfort right now is also about stability and creating a sense of security. It's okay to hold onto what feels safe and familiar whilst you are finding your footing. Comfort doesn't have to be about taking big leaps, sometimes it's about protecting your energy and setting firm boundaries whilst allowing yourself to feel grounded and secure.

My sweet Pile Two, the comfort you need right now is self-compassion, gentle planning for the future and creating emotional and physical security. It's okay to move slowly, protect your peace and to trust that stability is a form of growth too.

Pile Three -

Cards Pulled - Five of Pentacles reversed • Five of Swords • Eight of Swords.

Hello doves!!

Here, the Five of Pentacles reversed shows that the comfort you need right now comes from healing and renewal after hardship. You might have been through a period of feeling isolated, unsupported, or lacking. But, now, the comfort lies in recognising that recovery is possible. You're being encouraged to seek out support and hope in small signs of progress, even if they feel fragile at first. Better days are opening up to you.

The Five of Swords suggests that there may still be some lingering conflict or mental battles weighing on you. The comfort you need is permission to walk away from unnecessary fights, both with others and yourself. It's okay to choose peace over being right.

The Eight of Swords points to comfort through liberation and empowerment. You are being called to recognise that your are not as trapped as you may feel. Comfort comes through realising you have choices, even if they require courage to see. They key is to free yourself from those limiting beliefs.

Pile Three, my doves, the comfort you need right now is healing, release from draining conflict, and the recognition that you're free to choose a new path.

[thealchemistbae]

NN Persona Chart of a Davison Relationship Chart Notes 💕

Disclaimer: This post is for entertainment purposes only.

thealchemistbae © do not copy, redistribute, or edit my content.

If you enjoyed this post, you can leave me a tip via PayPal at goddessguapa@gmail.com or via Venmo @goddessguapa. Thank you.

HOW TO GENERATE CHART:

Step 1: Go to Astro.com

Head over to astro.com.

Step 2: Create Both Individual Profiles

Click "Free Horoscopes" > "Extended Chart Selection".

If you haven't already, create a profile for each person involved under "Add New Astro Data".

Step 3: Create the Davison Relationship Chart

In the Extended Chart Selection menu:

Under "Chart type", select "Davison Relationship Chart" (not the Composite midpoint method, but the real Davison).

Select the two individuals for the chart.

Generate the Davison Chart and Under where it say "Save Default Settings", there should be another option to "Add to "My Astro". (Make sure you don't already have too many profiles or it won't be there).

Click "Add to "My Astro" and the chart should create it's own profile.

Step 4: Generate the North Node Persona Chart

Go back to the main menu and click "Horoscope For". You should see a profile that says "Dav. Rel. (your name) + (their name).

Click that Profile, go under "Chart type", select "Persona Chart" and Generate.

Once you go to the Chart, Click where it says "Moon" and scroll down and select "asc. Lunar Node". Hit "Go" and there is your North Node Persona Chart for your Davison Relationship Chart.

Now that you have your chart; here are some observations/placements to look for:

🎀: Sun in Aries 7th house -> Purpose together: Learning partnership dynamics through independence and courage. Huge lessons around balancing self and relationship without losing identity.

🎀: Moon in Scorpio 2nd house -> Emotional security is tied to loyalty, deep emotional trust, and shared values about money/resources. Can get possessive or jealous if not careful.

🎀: NN Aquarius 8H -> Soul mission about emotional merging, rebirth, collective evolution, deep trust. Might need to revolutionize how you bond, share money, intimacy, or even deal with death/rebirth themes.

🎀: Mars in Cancer 2nd House -> Fighting for emotional security and material stability together. Sometimes passive-aggressive energy if needs aren't directly communicated.

🎀: Sun trine Jupiter -> Big, beautiful luck supporting the relationship's mission. Feels like blessings flow easily when you're aligned.

🎀: Moon square Mars -> Emotional clashes, passion-fueled fights. Tension that forces emotional honesty (but can also be explosive).

🎀: Mercury 9H -> Communicating about travel, belief systems, religion, philosophy is part of your shared destiny. "We're here to expand each other's minds."

🎀: Venus 10H -> Purpose is tied to creating beauty, love, or values that are seen publicly. Maybe building a public image together, success in art/business/public service.

🎀: Mars 1H -> You're meant to ignite each other's individual growth. Courage, independence, and passion fuel your joint purpose; might have battles but it's soul fire.

🎀: Jupiter 4H -> Expanding emotional roots, creating a safe home/family vibe. Sometimes moving in together or traveling far from original roots.

🎀: Pluto 3H -> Transforming how you communicate is core to the soul mission. Deep talks, mental rebirths, cutting away shallow connections.

🎀: Sun conjunct NN -> This relationship is 100% tied to your shared soul mission. Feels "meant to be" even if it's challenging.

🎀: Sun trine Mars -> Easy, natural action toward the shared soul purpose. You both energize and inspire each other without force. Destiny flows when you take action together.

🎀: Mercury sextile Venus -> Easy, loving communication. Compliments, flirting, emotional honesty help support your path.

🎀: Mercury trine Saturn -> Serious, committed communication. You're capable of making plans together that build a solid future destiny.

🎀: Venus opposite Uranus -> Sudden attractions, sudden detachment. Passionate bursts, but if the relationship feels too restrictive, there's a danger of sudden endings unless freedom is honored.

🎀: Venus square Saturn -> Feeling unappreciated or emotionally blocked. Love is karmic here: you must work through feelings of unworthiness or emotional "tests" to stabilize and fulfill the destiny.

🎀: Moon trine Venus -> Emotional harmony. Love feels safe, nurturing the destiny. You support each other's hearts without even trying.

🎀: Mars conjunct NN -> Physical action is crucial to your shared destiny. Sex, drive, mutual motivation are cosmic keys to reaching the soul mission.

🎀: Jupiter conjunct Saturn -> You came together to master both expansion and discipline. Big rewards come when you balance dreaming big and doing the real work.

🎀: Jupiter square MC -> Destiny (MC=public reputation/success) can get overly inflated. Stay grounded or you'll lose sight of real progress.

🎀: Uranus trine POF -> Sudden breakthroughs, luck through unexpected events. When you embrace freedom and change together, you hit destiny jackpots.

🎀: Pluto conjunct Chiron -> Deep karmic wound healing is essential. The relationship can trigger ancient pains but also heal them completely if you stay committed.

🎀: Vertex trine MC -> Fated meetings support your ultimate public destiny. You were destined to meet at the right time to help each other become who you were meant to be publicly.

🎀: Sun 10H -> Public recognition is part of the destiny. You are meant to be seen together, whether as a power couple, professional team, or public figures.

🎀: Moon 12H -> Emotional connection is psychic and karmic. You feel each other beyond words but also must confront hidden emotional baggage from past lives.

🎀: NN 3H -> Learning how to communicate, teach, share ideas, network. Building community through your bond.

🎀: NN 7H -> You're supposed to MASTER partnership. Marriage themes, contracts, balancing self and other.

🎀: Venus sextile AC -> Magnetic chemistry, physical attraction, grace together. People find your bond beautiful.

🎀: POF 8H -> Deep bonding, financial merging, spiritual sex all bring blessings (if you trust fully).

🎀: Saturn 5H -> Serious lessons around romance, children, creativity. Love isn't all fun; it's commitment work.

🎀: Saturn 7H -> Ultimate karmic relationship. Meant to face serious partnership issues and build real trust.

🎀: NN square Saturn -> Growing feels painfully slow. Lessons are heavy but meant to build unshakeable foundations.

Let me know if you guys want a part 2. I will also be uploading more gems of this on my Patreon.

thealchemistbae © do not copy, redistribute, or edit my content.

If you enjoyed this post, you can leave me a tip via PayPal at goddessguapa@gmail.com or via Venmo @goddessguapa. Thank you.

[brujamala-aka-gigi]

⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁pac reading ｡⋆｡ ﾟ

ೄྀ ⊹ ࣪ ˖ 𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒊𝒄𝒆

ʚ 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒐�� ೄྀ 𓏲༄

some short tarot readings aiming to provide information that could be useful if you're going thru hard times. this is completely random, take what resonates leave what doesn't, hopefully there's something useful in here <3 .

{ pngs by @20sk-smoke }{dividers by @d-oie & @cafekitsune}

pile one pile two pile three

.

.‧͙˚ *༓ scroll down for the readings ⋆ִ ‧͙⁺˚

.

˚˖𓍢ִ໋ ✧ pile number one ˚.⋆

You are facing a moment of imbalance due to a certain sense of harmony getting lost among the overwhelming feelings of chaos and uncertainty. You are almost aware of the new emotionally constructive opportunities on the horizon, but you also fear that you won't make it out of whatever situation is blocking your path towards abundance. Progress might not be happening at the speed you desire, but it's certain that your achievements are not meant to be easily seen by yourself, you need to allow yourself to be grateful now instead of only allowing gratitude when you reach what could be seen as a “fully achieved” goal. Absolute success is not something that's eternal, it's a feeling that lasts too little. This reality shouldn't put you down as the opportunity for constant evolution gives depth to personal experiences. When possible, try to find comfort in the spiritual growth opportunities, don't hyperfixate on what's not available for you to do at the moment as there's help coming your way. There's no shame in letting others care for you when you need assistance to get back on your feet, specially during this moment where you might be drawn to seeking deeper connections with people who are on the same path you are.

˚˖𓍢ִ໋ ✧ pile number two ˚.⋆

You might be feeling overly pressured to react to abrupt changes in your routine or new demands that exceed the limits of your comfort zone. It seems as if you feel that life is asking for too much and you have to options other than to give up on your ideals or your habits and surrender to these new expectations. Your confidence is not meant to be shattered because of such demands and situations, it’s meant to become stronger by creating new ways of asserting yourself as the determined and hard working person you are. It would be completely understandable if you became defensive, but this defensiveness will become a tiring part of yourself if you are not able to pick your battles more wisely. You have the mental strength and the creativity to adapt into different ways of channeling your energy, but it will take you some time and persistence to get a sense of how exactly you are meant to do so. This is a great moment to trust in your resilience. If you are not feeling confident enough, you need to trust yourself and your ability to rebuild your life even in situations where you are overwhelmed by all sorts of demands that might seem unrealistic now, but you are quite capable of finding the right tools to face them.

˚˖𓍢ִ໋ ✧ pile number three ˚.⋆

During this moment of your journey, there’s still a lot of hard work to do in regards to your inner world, your ideals, your values and the hard questions on why you are actually persisting and doing said hard work. You are already quite far in terms of your personal development and in your experiences, but at this point you are facing doubts that do not require knowledge that comes from outside of yourself, you need to have more moments of introspection in your life. So far, you have a lot of good tools and foundations for material success, yet your mindset needs further development in order for these tools to bring material abundance and spiritual fulfillment. Most of the confusion and feelings of disorientation  you could be facing right now, are meant to guide you towards getting the ability to make sure your thoughts, your feelings and your actions are properly aligned with your goals. You are probably amazing at knowing what to do, but you need your actions to also serve your intellectual and emotional needs as much as they serve your goals, by taking this into consideration, your journey towards success and fulfillment will become more satisfactory, as you will reach your goals and actually feel a whole sense of achievement that goes beyond just doing the thing in question.

masterpost ✶ pac readings ✶ ko-fi page

✶ ✶ ✶ personal reading services ✶ ✶ ✶

[ange11icyuri]

HOLIDAY PICK A PILE 🎄🎁👼🏻

(What is going to happen around the holidays for you??)

-

Pile One. ❤️

Around the holidays, you might find yourself feeling a bit impatient about something you’re looking forward to. Is there a gift, a moment, or perhaps someone you’re waiting for? This sense of anticipation could bring some doubt, as if you’re uncertain whether what you’re hoping for will truly happen. I sense that during this time, your strength may be tested. You might experience a mix of emotions, including resentment or confusion, as you navigate a situation that feels complex and unresolved.

This holiday season, it’s important to find balance in your life, especially as you prepare for the new year. Don’t settle for anything that doesn’t bring you happiness or peace. Reflect on how you can create harmony in your relationships—both romantic and platonic—and work on aligning your life with what truly matters to you. It might not be an easy process, but it will be worth it.

You may also feel a strong sense of desire, but trust your intuition during this time. Be cautious of anyone who might stir up feelings or make promises they can’t keep. Stay grounded and listen to yourself first and foremost. As the holidays approach, I see you reflecting on your goals—what you’ve accomplished and what’s still left to achieve. You’ll likely use this time to plan and set intentions for the new year. This reflection will help you focus on what’s truly necessary and meaningful.

Remember, you have the freedom to choose your path and the power to shift your perspective. Don’t limit yourself to one option or outcome. Make the decisions that feel right for you, and establish boundaries where needed. This will be a time of growth and self-discovery.

The number 10 stands out—a symbol of completion. By the end of the year, you’ll feel a greater sense of wholeness, with a renewed sense of security as the new year begins. Although delays might test your patience, they are often necessary to prepare you for better things ahead. In the new year, I see clarity, fairness, and balance entering your life. You’re close to achieving your goals, and everything will fall into place in time. Stay focused, trust yourself, and know that success is within reach.

Pile Two.❄️

Around the holidays, I see you striving to stay grounded and realistic. You may also find yourself surrounded by people who embody steadiness and reliability—someone you can count on. If this resonates with your energy, it’s a reminder from spirit to continue addressing challenges in a practical, mature way. You have the wisdom to resolve issues thoughtfully, and this approach will serve you well not only during the holidays but also as you move into the new year.

However, I sense that you may be holding back a lot of emotions, perhaps feeling overwhelmed or unable to express yourself as fully as you’d like. The holidays often bring a flurry of tasks and responsibilities, and it’s easy to feel stretched thin. For some, this time may even bring feelings of emptiness, as though you’re going through the motions without truly feeling joy. The stress and constant activity could be taking a toll on your mental health, leaving you exhausted and stuck in a routine that feels draining.

There may also be a sense of betrayal or dishonesty around you. Someone in your life might not have the best intentions, and their actions could be manipulative or deceitful. Whether this has already happened or is yet to come, it’s essential to trust your intuition and be cautious about who you place your trust in. Not everyone around you has good morals or honest intentions, and it’s important to protect your energy.

The holidays might bring a shift—a time of deep reflection and ambition. You could feel pressure to accomplish goals that have been on your mind, but the overwhelming pace of life might leave you worried and uncertain. If this resonates, take it as a sign to slow down and approach things with care. Balance is key, and prioritizing your well-being is just as important as achieving your ambitions.

There’s also an energy of envy here—whether it’s you comparing yourself to others or someone else feeling jealous of you. If you find yourself envying others’ happiness during the holidays, remember that everyone faces their own challenges, even if they aren’t visible. Conversely, if someone else seems envious of you, it could be because they don’t see the struggles you’re carrying internally. You might be skilled at hiding your emotions, but bottling them up can lead to repression and frustration.

Delays or setbacks may be contributing to your feelings of doubt and anxiety. You might feel like your life is stuck in a state of chaos, or you could be navigating an unsettling change or conflict. This could leave you feeling closed off, disheartened, or unwilling to take risks. If this resonates, it’s crucial not to let these challenges close you off from others or from new possibilities. Staying open, even during difficult times, will help you find your way forward.

Though your strength may be tested this holiday season, know that you are capable of overcoming anything. Reframe your perspective, seek healthy coping mechanisms, and focus on maintaining a positive mindset. Manifest your goals and desires for the new year, and trust that good things are on the horizon. Even if things feel overwhelming now, you have the resilience to face your challenges head-on. In the end, your strength and perseverance will bring rewards and brighter days.

Pille Three ☃️

You might be finding yourself isolating more lately, especially around the holidays. Socializing or being in big crowds may feel overwhelming or uncomfortable for you, and that’s okay. It’s important to honor your feelings and take the space you need. However, I see a determination within you—perhaps you’re considering stepping out of your comfort zone a bit as the new year approaches. You’re trying to embrace independence, or you may have already reached a strong level of it, which is a wonderful foundation for growth.

There’s a promising new beginning ahead. This could signify the start of a romantic relationship, the deepening of an existing connection, or even a new friendship. Whatever it is, it feels like something that will inspire self-love and reflection, helping you care for yourself in a way you might not have before. Around this time, you may start to feel a sense of peace and balance, finally experiencing the serenity you’ve been craving.

This positive shift may be supported by the presence of someone special—a person whose energy aligns with yours and encourages you to move forward into a brighter chapter. However, don’t let comfort make you complacent. Even when things are going well, it’s important to stay motivated and keep putting in the effort. Remember, success and joy are maintained by consistent energy and dedication.

That said, there’s also a message here about letting go of something—or someone—that no longer serves you. You might be holding onto a connection or situation out of fear or habit, but it’s only weighing you down. Spirit urges you to release what isn’t meant for you to make room for the blessings ahead. Be mindful of manipulative or unreliable people in your life. No matter how good things might seem on the surface, trust your intuition and protect your energy. You deserve authentic, supportive connections.

Change can be intimidating, but embracing it will lead you to fulfillment and happiness. Even if the journey feels challenging, know that every step forward is bringing you closer to a better version of your life. Trust in yourself, focus on what truly matters, and don’t let intrusive or negative thoughts hold you back. Once you overcome these obstacles, you’ll step into a place of optimism, achievement, and inner peace.

Your journey is one of resilience, and as you push through the difficulties, you’ll find that everything you’ve worked toward will finally come together. Keep going—beautiful things are waiting for you.

Pile Four 🎁

I see someone here who is deeply thankful—not just because it’s the holiday season, but because gratitude is a part of who you are. You appreciate every blessing that comes your way. You’re also someone who embodies forgiveness. Perhaps you’ve recently forgiven someone and are ready to start fresh, clearing the air as you move into the new year. This decision might mark a new beginning, whether it’s with yourself or others. You may also be striving to grow as a person, embracing positive changes to build a better future.

However, caution is needed. I sense some envy and irresponsibility lingering in your energy. While forgiveness is powerful, it’s essential to ensure those you forgive are genuinely taking responsibility for their actions. Be mindful not to trust too easily, as some may mask their true intentions behind lies. Trust yourself above all else.

This holiday season, I see a partnership forming—whether for work, a project, or simply sharing experiences with someone. There’s talent involved here, possibly related to something creative or entertaining. It will bring joy and freedom, with no limits holding you back. Remember to stay fair, open-minded, and consider all perspectives. Also, try to manage your spending wisely during this time, as there’s a warning about the potential for overspending and falling into debt.

There may be lingering anxiety, perhaps tied to past conflicts or fears of failure with someone. Despite these worries, know that you’ve earned every bit of your success. Recognition is coming your way—possibly even publicly. People will finally know your name, and you’ll feel the triumph and victory you’ve longed for. Progress is on the horizon, and with it, a newfound confidence.

You’re preparing for something bigger—an exciting opportunity that’s just within reach. Honesty and openness will play a role, and your efforts will lead to stability and success. Still, you might experience moments of doubt or feel like you’re revisiting old challenges, leading to a sense of loss or disappointment. This could make you question your path, but these feelings will pass. You’ll find forgiveness once again, and through distractions, you’ll begin to heal.

As you move into the new year, I see a shift. If you’ve felt trapped or restricted in the past, that energy is fading. Healing will take place, and your situation will improve. In the end, everything you’ve been striving for will come together. You’ll reach a place of completion, where you feel whole, content, and deeply grateful for all that you’ve achieved.

You’ve come such a long way, and your hard work is paying off. The new year holds so much promise—success, happiness, and fulfillment. Trust in your journey, and enjoy the rewards you’ve earned.



[aventurineswife]

❤ The Language of Flowers | 008.5

❤ | Your option shall be: Mydei

❤ | Flower & it's definition: Carnations | symbolize love, devotion, and distinction, and their meaning can vary depending on the color.

❤ | Backstory: One legend as to the origin of Carnations is that the reader, now a herbalist in training, once found a warrior of Okhema 'Mydei' who was far too handsome. In order not to be seduced, she tore her eyes away and found herself enamored by the flowers at her feet, making it her career to tend to these flowers in his memory and distract herself from the image of he who is known throughout Amphoreus. Unable to approach him herself due to the difference in position, she becomes a distant cheerleader for his success on the battlefield. However, what's to come when she is contacted for his aid and he recognizes her years later? Becoming his preferred source of support when he's bitten more than he can chew. Whether he admits it or not, he finds comfort in her company. Allowing him solace in his downtime.

❤ | Inspiration: While some men do receive flowers during their lifetime, many men don't receive flowers until their funeral.

The Language of Flowers

Summary: You are a herbalist-in-training who becomes enamored with carnations after a chance encounter with Mydei, a warrior of Okhema. Unable to approach him due to your difference in social status, you channel your feelings into a career tending to these flowers, which symbolize love, devotion, and distinction. Years later, when Mydei calls upon you for aid, you reunite. Though Mydei remains a stoic warrior, the connection between you two grows, and you become his source of comfort during difficult times. The carnations come to represent not only the past but the bond you share.

Tags: Mydei x Reader, Mydei x Reader, Fluff, Angst, Healing, Comfort, Symbolism, Slow Burn, Reunions, Emotional Growth.

Warnings: Mild violence (mention of battle), Mentions of past trauma (war, burdens of leadership), Implied emotional struggles, might be ooc.

The city of Castrum Kremnos, once proud and resolute, now lay in the shadow of its former self. War had bled it dry, and the echoes of the past lingered in every cracked stone, every forgotten corner. Yet, amidst the chaos and the ruins, there was one thing you had clung to: the delicate beauty of carnations.

As a herbalist-in-training, you had discovered the joy of these flowers after an encounter years ago—one that still lingered in your memory, despite the years that had passed.

The day you first saw Mydei was as vivid as any dream. He stood there, a warrior of Okhema, surrounded by the turmoil of battle. His striking features, sharp and noble, reflected both his lineage and the storm of emotions raging within him. His claymore cleaved through the air, a blur of power, but his eyes, fierce and untamed, pierced through you. You couldn’t look away, and you feared, if you did, you’d be swept into the storm that was Mydei.

To protect yourself from that dangerous allure, you tore your gaze away. And that was when your eyes fell upon the earth beneath your feet, where a cluster of carnations swayed in the wind, a patch of color in the harsh world of war. From that day forward, you found solace in these flowers, planting them, nurturing them, until they became your obsession—an obsession that shielded you from the memory of the man who stood at the center of the battlefield.

You never approached him. Never dared to. His position as a Chrysos Heir, the leader of warriors, was far beyond your reach. Instead, you quietly cheered him on from the sidelines, hoping for his success, admiring him from afar as your flowers bloomed in his memory.

Years passed, and though Mydei remained a distant figure, his name continued to echo through the lands of Amphoreus. You continued your studies in herbs and healing, finding peace in the quiet tending of your garden of carnations.

But then, it happened.

A summons arrived, urgent and sharp. Your skills were needed in the field—your expertise with healing and herbs was required to aid one of the warriors of Okhema. You weren’t sure at first who the request had come from, but you recognized the familiar presence behind the message: Mydei.

You arrived at the encampment, heart beating faster than you cared to admit, your breath shaky with uncertainty. As you approached the tent where your services were requested, you saw him. Mydei. The man from the battlefield, now standing before you, a figure both familiar and foreign. The years had changed him, but his presence—still that commanding, unrelenting force—had not wavered.

His eyes met yours, and for a moment, time seemed to freeze. He didn’t speak immediately, instead watching you as if trying to place the connection between you both. Recognition sparked in his gaze. A flicker of understanding. Then, he stepped forward, his voice low and steady.

“It’s been years,” Mydei murmured, his tone like the calm before a storm. “You… you were always the one with the carnations, weren’t you?”

The years of distance, of careful detachment, suddenly felt so far away. You nodded, swallowing the lump in your throat. “I… I am still a humble herbalist. And yes, carnations are my… my calling.”

Mydei’s gaze softened, though it was brief and guarded. He had never been one for vulnerability, especially not in front of others. “They’ve been a source of peace for me,” he admitted quietly, surprising you with the raw honesty of his words. “And they’ve helped me remember something I needed to forget.”

Your heart skipped. Was he talking about the memories of the battlefield, or something deeper? Something personal? You weren’t sure, but you didn’t need to ask. You merely nodded, acknowledging his words without forcing him to elaborate further.

As the days passed, you became a quiet but steady presence by his side. Mydei, ever the stoic warrior, never openly admitted his need for you. But in the way he sought your counsel, your quiet advice, there was an unspoken understanding between you. He would come to you after a particularly grueling battle, when the weight of leadership threatened to crush him under its burden. You tended to his wounds, both physical and emotional, with the same care and devotion you gave to your beloved flowers.

At night, when the camp was still and the sounds of battle faded into the distance, Mydei would sit by the fire, his usually brash demeanor softened, as he gazed into the flames. It was during these moments that he allowed himself to drop the heavy armor of command, seeking solace in your company, though he never truly admitted it.

“Sometimes,” Mydei spoke quietly one evening, “I wonder if I would’ve been different had I never left Kremnos.”

You sat beside him, your fingers lightly touching the edge of a fresh bouquet of carnations that you had placed beside his seat. “Perhaps, but your path was chosen long before you ever stepped foot on it.”

A brief silence passed between you. The weight of his past, of the burden he carried as both a prince and a warrior, was evident, but he didn’t speak of it often.

Your heart ached for him, but you knew that his journey was his alone to walk. Still, you found yourself growing closer to him, finding in his quiet moments the comfort that had eluded you for so long.

“You’ve grown,” you said softly, breaking the silence, your fingers gently brushing the petals of the carnations. “But you’re still the same man I saw years ago—full of strength, of fire.”

Mydei’s lips twitched upward slightly, his eyes softening. “And you’re still as devoted as ever… to the flowers.”

His words were simple, but there was meaning behind them. For once, it wasn’t just about the carnations—it was about you, about the devotion that had persisted despite the years of separation.

His gaze lingered on you for a long moment before he stood, offering you a hand. “Come,” he said, his voice firm but gentle. “There’s much to be done, but for now, let’s leave it all behind.”

And so, you followed him, side by side, with the flowers of your past and his struggles blending into a moment of quiet companionship. In his presence, there was a subtle peace—one that didn’t need words, one that didn’t need to be explained.

In that moment, carnations symbolized more than love, devotion, or distinction. They were a bridge between two souls, one marked by war and the other by the silent beauty of a flower.

And despite the distance, despite the years, Mydei had found solace in you—just as you had once found him, far too handsome, amidst the carnations.

[Navigation]

[kajaono]

A+ Writing: Character growth done right

AKA: How the Netflix show "The Law According to Lidia Poët" wrote one of the best character growth-arcs I ever witnessed on screen

AKA: The long promised: Enrico Poët character meta

I think many shows centering around feminism - and especially period pieces - struggle to write feminism and the situation women lived - and still live in - a realisitic and relatable way. You either have male character saying stuff like: "Women belong in the kitchen" or male character being absolutly pro-women. Nothing in between. And even when sexism is addressed... a real character arc where a male person grows into realizing what women suffer from... often in silence... is hardly anywhere to be found. In a way thats not staged, but just human. Flawed and raw and relatable

And then Enrico Poet walzed in and just delievered. Its insane.

Short summary: The Law according to Lidia Poet is a show about the first female italian lawyer who had to fight against alot of prejudice, as well as a occupational ban. Enrico is her brother.

When we meet Enrico he is a mirror of the society surrounding him.

Whats really interesting about the way he is written is: He is more nuanced then your typical period piece sexist: "Go and bear babies." Instead he respects her intelligence and her intellect. He respects her wish to work... but not as a lawyer. If his sister really wants to work and earn her own money why not in a traditional female job?

Interestingly, and very telling for his character, is what he says next

He hesitates before he says that. And he doesn't look at Lidia. He looks at his daughter. So yes... he considers marrying a valid option for a woman. But not for Lidia, because Lidia is not "normal". Nowhere in the whole show he tells Lidia to marry. He maybe not agrees with her, but he always shows a certian kind of respect for her wishes.

Later he says:

So does he says all those things because he truely believes them... or because his father - a higher male authority - used to say the same things and he just repeats them?

But Lidia insists on being a lawyer so Enrico eventually agrees that she can be his assistent (he is a lawyer himself) and help with cases, but only if:

So already here the show overcomes the boring cliché trope of: "Women belong in the kitchen"-sexist. No, Enrico is much more nuanced then this. Already in the short conversation we see that there two sides: What Enrico was taught to say and what he really believes.

When we enter episode 2 Lidia starts working for Enrico. The power dynamic is clear. He is in the leading position. Nevertheless Lidia is taking every opportunity she gets to keep on working as a lawyer, independet from her brother. When Enrico finds out about her "side business" he is angry. But interestingly he doesn't try to stop her.

After Lidia solved the ep1 case really sucessfully a certain kind of trust grew between these two. Enrico doesn't want to get involved in trouble, but he trust his sisters abilitiy to solve the case.

But then - from one moment to the next - the really real danger occurrs that the public might find out that he is working with his sister, his sister who is not allowed to work in law anymore. And he snaps:

Here he only thinks about himself. Every trust between them is lost. In this moment Enrico only thinks about his career. This moment Lidias professional success is not to him... because she will not have any anyway.

But you don't think the show lets him get away with that, right? Oh our boy will learn his lesson.

He and Lidia meet a lesbian who had to hide her relationship with another woman. The following conversation takes place.

THIS! This is the first time he has to look into a mirror and realize he is part of the problem. Until this point he probably thought that he is a good guy. He lets his sister work with him, he lets her solve her own cases. But now he is forced to realize that he also judged his sister, every day. He has to realize that his sister suffers and he is one of many reasons. He is not one of the good guys. We see him being ashamed and he starts to think.

The show ends with Lidia not being allowed to ever work as a lawyer or lawyer assistent ever again.

When Enrico and Lidia are called to court, Enrico says this to Lidia:

But his tone has changed. He doesn't try to muzzle her anymore. He tries to protect her. Because he knows that whatever she will say, it will become worse... for him, but also for her.

And when the judge announce the sentence, Enrico shortly looks to her sister. Checking how this sentence will effect her. He starts caring. Because the conversation with the lesbian character - him being forced to look in the mirror - slowly starts changing him.

Episode 3 marks a turning point in Enricos character development

In epsiode 3 Lidia is solving a murder. The victim is the father of a guy she was supposed to marry when she was younger. The engagement was arranged and Lidia ran away because she didn't wanted to marry him. While she is solving the murder Lidia finds a letter from her own father to the father of her arranged-ex-fiancé.

It turns out that Lidia was only supposed to marry so that her father gets his debts canceled. Lidia shows Enrico the letter. He is horrified.

While he is reading the letter he is so ashamed he can not even look into Lidias eyes.

His voice breaks while he keeps on reading, he panics and is still not able to lock eyes with Lidia.

And now comes the quote that - imo - shows his character growth: "Thats a cattle market".

In this moment he realizes that the life of his sister, a woman, is worth nothing. That she can be easily auctioned off like a cow. That she is at the mercy of her own family... men... who can drop her any moment and cause harm to her. Because legally she has no protection and can not speak for herself. A cattle market indeed.

When Enrico hears how calm Lidia is... sad, broken... but super calm like she isn't surprised, Enrico is horrified. Because he realizes that this is what Lidia is confronted with every day. For him thats shocking, for her? thats the reality of her every day life. And being confronted with that, changes Enrico. He realizes that he can not longer close his eyes and pretend that his sister is some kind of "freak" for wanting to make her own voice heard

Its time for him to step up, to do something. To fix all the injustice that happened to Lidia, just because she is woman. Not standing in her way, but standing alongside her.

And Lidia smiles, with hope in her eyes, because it is the first time a man stood up for her and fights for her rights alongside her.

Because Enrico now knows what it means to be a woman. He saw the injustice and he can not be quiet anymore.

He grew so much. We came from Enrico telling Lidia that she shouldn't work in law to him seeing them as equal.

To him eventually waiting outside her house, neither saying goodbye to her nor trying to stop her from leaving to America. Just respecting whatever choice she will make.

This is character growth doen right!

TL:DR

This show takes a really raw and human approach to Enrico character growth: want to work along side a woman? Then you have to face the reality women are suffering from. And eventually this reality will change also your perception of the reality surrounding you. Is this character growth idealized? Sure but that’s not the point.

The point is too show how the reality of women can effect and change a male character, in a positive way, that’s also human and relatable. And they just nailed it

[unsaidace]

Sorry to drop into your ask box but I have been blown away by the reaction to the last couple of episodes. I’m fairly new but I am gobsmacked alleged actual mental health professionals are coming out to defend Eddie’s actions in the kitchen. That is straight up terrifying to think about.

Also seeing tiktok edits about how good it was and how they just need to hug each other, and how the shoulder grasp was their thing to help Eddie connect them emotionally. I have been in some toxic fandoms and I feel like I am being gaslit. That scene should have buried the nonexistent romantic relationship there and then. I find myself frustrated by the ‘oh Buck is sad, throw a kid at him’ aspect as well because it invalidates his whole feelings.

I have gone on a blocking spree with how bad the takes have been, like saying it’s racist to criticise Eddie or even ship BuckTommy. Having seen the hatred to Lou and Tommy but comparing it to the scenes, i am baffled by the levels of hate and vitriol. Lou is doing his job and they’re pleased to be harassing him and other actors. I like Buck Tommy, I like their scenes and I hope they bring them back! I loved how Tommy treats him like an adult and allows his feelings to be voiced.

Also I wish Ravi would replace Eddie full time because he has so much to add and it feels like certain people only like Buck when they can make him Eddie’s punching bag or doormat.

Welcome to the world of the 9-1-1 fanbase. I’m sorry that you’re seeing it like this as a newcomer, because before Buddie basically took over the fandom? It was actually quite a chill place.

The first thing you need to know about the Buddies is a simple fact; they truly believe that this is The Eddie Diaz Show™️. They think he’s the “main of all mains” or something, that the show wouldn’t exist, wouldn’t be as successful as it is, without him. Of course, that argument gets destroyed the second you look back to season one and realise that the show was successful enough to get renewed for a second season without him, but you’ll never convince them of that. You’re correct in saying that this scene should’ve buried any idea of romance between the two of them but they’ll twist anything into ship material. They did it with couches and lasagne, so naturally they’ll do it with emotional abuse too.

The second thing to note; they don’t actually like Buck. Not one of them truly gives a fuck about him. They treat him like a child, or a naughty puppy who’s just pissed on the carpet. You’ll get used to that, unfortunately. It never gets less annoying, you just learn to tune it out for the sake of your sanity. You’ll also see several bad faith takes about Buck’s “selfishness”, and about how Eddie “simply tells Buck what he needs to hear”. The “filtered tags” option in your settings and the block button are going to become your best friends; use them liberally. The rest of us do, you might as well join the ranks.

As for Ravi replacing Eddie, I think a lot of us are on the Ravi Main Train™️ at this point. We’re all tired of Eddie being stuck in the same cycle as he was in season 3, with no real growth anywhere to be found. Adding Ravi to the team permanently would be a great way to refresh the show, while keeping us familiar with the characters. We know Ravi, we like him, there’s no need to work in a new face with a new backstory and hope they connect with the audience. Ravi has all of that already. He’s the perfect “new” addition to the main cast, the perfect way to give the show that “fresh” feeling without making us adjust to yet another new character that might not land in the way Tim hoped (see Lena Bosko and Lucy Donato for examples).

[a-d-nox]

tarot cards and their key phrases: pentacles

this is just a beginners guide to the pentacles suit - i won't go into imagery, color use, etc. these are key phrases that come to mind when i think of the cards - NOT how they should be directly applied. they needs to be thought about situationally and the cards / when they are in combos they can change or alter their meanings of any reading.

paid reading options: astrology menu & cartomancy menu

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ace of pentacles (1)

astrological equivalent: taurus venus

upright: opportunity, gifts, new job, unexpected money gains, beginnings, increased prosperity, abundance, unlimited potential, new love, moving in together, and stability

reversed: not seeing the opportunities you have around you, trying too hard to make something work, working too hard, going in the wrong direction, controlling energy, and something is different than what you imagined

two of pentacles (2)

astrological equivalent: virgo mars

upright: work-life balance, flow with emotions, a level up, momentary disruption, only take on what you can handle, and feeling overwhelmed

reversed: tension in life, destabilization, irresponsibility with your finances, spending unnecessarily, needing moderation, and off track

three of pentacles (3)

astrological equivalent: capricorn mercury

upright: share your ideas, work you are passionate about, passion project, new opportunities, being well received by others, prosperity, and paving the way to your future

reversed: lack of confidence, overwhelming fears, needing to take your work to the next level, needing to step out of your comfort zone, feeling burnt out, needing to taking a break, and needing to be more generous with yourself

four of pentacles (4)

astrological equivalent: virgo moon

upright: financial stability, a new level of comfort, losing sight of potential growth, safe and stable, having what you need, clinging to what you have, being closed off to new things, in the process of establishing stability, and needing to give yourself some credit

reversed: focusing too much on materialism, seeing intangible results, work on insecurities, focus inwardly rather than outwardly, being too controlling, needing to relax, and needing to listen to intuition

five of pentacles (5)

astrological equivalent: capricorn moon

upright: lack or loss, scarcity, job loss, lack of resources, focused on what you lack, not seeing helping hands, and feeling unworthy

reversed: moving away from financial struggle, lingering fears, spiritual practices, needing faith, and needing to release feelings of lack/loss

six of pentacles (6)

astrological equivalent: taurus mercury

upright: giving and receiving, being generous, feeling unworthy/undeserving, and needing to realize that you have to give without expecting to receive something in return

reversed: generosity with strings attached, warning about intentions behind actions, and being disappointed by what you receive

seven of pentacles (7)

astrological equivalent: capricorn mars

upright: close to your goal, needing to take a closer look at all the progress you've made, gratitude, and adventure towards achievement

reversed: not working towards goals with enough conviction, frustrated, impatience, procrastination, not seeing results, and internal resistance

eight of pentacles (8)

astrological equivalent: taurus mars

upright: do what love / love what you do, financial success, financial security, hard work, dedication, success, learning something new, advancing in you field, and rewarded for your efforts

reversed: feeling burnt out, leaving your job, feeling uncertain about your chosen field, and worrying that you aren't achieving anything

nine of pentacles (9)

astrological equivalent: capricorn venus

upright: enjoyment, feeling safe, working hard, wise investment, charity, shared abundance, enjoying life, having everything you need, vacationing, and buying something meaningful

reversed: overspending, materialism, unsustainable financial behavior, being overworked, not enjoying life, and not taking time for oneself

ten of pentacles (10)

astrological equivalent: taurus moon

upright: love within the family, support, spending time with the people you love, giving to those in need, prosperity, giving generously, what you inherit, setting aside funds, and planning for the future

reversed: challenging time for the family, feeling controlled by the expectations of others, home related conflict, and fear of moving on

page of pentacles

astrological equivalent: earth

upright: novice, establishing yourself in a new place/profession, working in beginning stages of a project, lasting abundance, steady focus, and learning more

reversed: procrastinating on goals, refocus/readjust your approach, frustration around results or lack of results, and it might be time to move on

knight of pentacles

astrological equivalent: earth and air

upright: starting from ground zero, wanting lasting results, showing up fully, enthusiasm for life, s.m.a.r.t. goal setting, and transforming your routine

reversed: hesitation, complacency, feeling stagnant, positive change, and needing to change your energy

queen of pentacles

astrological equivalent: earth and water

upright: nurturing, dependable, connection with nature, supportiveness, relationship with your body, and connecting with abundance

reversed: materialism, needing to reconnect with spirituality, unreliability, needing to have a conversation about expectations, someone influencing your decisions, people pleasing, and picking other people's happiness over your own

king of pentacles

astrological equivalent: earth and fire

upright: financial stability, generosity, leadership role, financial decisions, take action when striving to meet goals, financially supporting others, and using resources to benefit others

reversed: greediness, focusing solely on material wealth, father figure, being hard on yourself, butting heads with others, superficial people, selfish people, and struggling with generosity

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© a-d-nox 2024 all rights reserved

[tomorrowusa]

Those cheap clothes at Shein have a big price tag which few consumers are able to see.

This is the sound of Panyu, the neighbourhood known as the "Shein village", a warren of factories that power the world's largest fast fashion retailer. "If there are 31 days in a month, I will work 31 days," one worker told the BBC. Most said they only have one day off a month. The BBC spent several days here: we visited 10 factories, spoke to four owners and more than 20 workers. We also spent time at labour markets and textile suppliers. We found that the beating heart of this empire is a workforce sitting behind sewing machines for around 75 hours a week in contravention of Chinese labour laws. [ ... ] But even past 22:00, the sewing machines - and the people hunched over them - don't stop as more fabric arrives, in trucks so full that bolts of colour sometimes tumble onto the factory floor. "We usually work, 10, 11 or 12 hours a day," says a 49-year-old woman from Jiangxi unwilling to give her name. "On Sundays we work around three hours less." She is in an alleyway, where a dozen people are huddled around a row of bulletin boards. They are reading the job ads on the board, while examining the stitching on a pair of chinos draped over it. [ ... ] The migrant worker from Jiangxi is looking for a short-term contract - and the chinos are an option. "We earn so little. The cost of living is now so high," she says, adding that she hopes to make enough to send back to her two children who are living with their grandparents. "We get paid per piece," she explains. "It depends how difficult the item is. Something simple like a t-shirt is one-two yuan [less than a dollar] per piece and I can make around a dozen in an hour."

Let's do a little math. One Chinese Yuan = 13.81 US cents (or $0.1381) as of Monday. So if the migrant worker from Jiangxi earns CN¥ 2.00 per t-shirt (US$0.2762) and does a dozen in one hour, she is effectively earning US$3.31 per hour. For comparison, the US minimum wage was US$3.35 per hour in between 01 January 1981 and 01 April 1990.

The working hours at Shein factories are as miserable as the pay. A "standard" working day is 14 hours.

Standard working hours appear to be from 08:00 to well past 22:00, the BBC found. This is consistent with a report from the Swiss advocacy group Public Eye, which was based on interviews with 13 textile workers at factories producing clothes for Shein. They found that a number of staff were working excessive overtime. It noted the basic wage without overtime was 2,400 yuan (£265; $327) - below the 6,512 yuan the Asia Floor Wage Alliance says is needed for a "living wage". But the workers we spoke to managed to earn anywhere between 4,000 and 10,000 yuan a month. "These hours are not unusual, but it's clear that it's illegal and it violates basic human rights," said David Hachfield from the group. "It's an extreme form of exploitation and this needs to be visible." The average working week should not exceed 44 hours, according to Chinese labour laws, which also state that employers should ensure workers have at least one rest day a week.

There are other issues mentioned in the article such as the sourcing of cotton from Xinjiang where the Chinese Communist Party is committing genocide against the Uighur people.

Don't buy clothing made in sweatshops from ANY country. In the US it was sweatshop conditions at clothing manufacturers which were one of the spurs for the growth of labor unions in the early 20th century.

I would add that "fast fashion" is generally wasteful and bad for the environment. Buy clothes which are not likely to quickly become unfashionable and those which are sturdy enough to last for a while.

[whencyclopedia]

Aedile

The aedile was an official of the Roman Republic who maintained Roman roads, supervised the grain and water supply, and provided the city's citizens with games among other duties. Initially, they were plebeian and elected annually by the Concilium Plebis or Council of Plebs, but from 367 BCE, two aedile curules of the patrician class joined their plebeian colleagues. The role evolved and expanded during the Roman Republic, and the office of aedile was often seen as an integral part of the cursus honorum, one step on the path to become a consul. With Augustus assuming many duties of the aedile himself and the rise of the Roman Empire, the office disappeared.

Evolution of the Role

The Roman people emerged from the rule of the Etruscan kings with an innovative form of government: a republic. The aristocratic families - the patricians - created a three-branch system that contained a centuriate assembly, a Senate, and two co-executives called consuls. These consuls were elected by the assembly, and, while only serving a one-year term, had the power of a king. However, the growth of the city and the burden of administering the newly acquired provinces along the Mediterranean Sea called for additional magistrates to assume some of the powers of the consul. Among these new officials were the praetor who dispensed justice, the quaestor who handled financial affairs, and the aedile who (among other duties) maintained Roman roads, supervised the grain and water supply, and provided the city's citizens with games.

While some evidence indicates the office existed under the Etruscans as a caretaker of records and public monies, the aediles - initially two were chosen from the plebeian class - surfaced during the Republic as subordinate officers to the tribunes of the plebeians, supervising the temples and plebeian cults, Ceres and Diana in particular. They were elected annually by the Concilium Plebis or Council of Plebs. In 367 BCE two aedile curules were created and, unlike their fellow plebeian aediles, they came from the patrician class and were elected annually by the centuriate assembly. These latter aediles eventually became magistrates and part of the cursus honorum. The role of the aedile was expanded to include maintaining the cura urbis or fabric of the city (the roads, public buildings and police force) and the cura annonae or city's grain supply. And, if the need arose, he would assume some of the duties of the censor. But most importantly, they were placed in charge of the many annual festivals and public games. Later, the office of aedile curules became available to plebeians, and after the admission of plebeians to the rank, it was held alternately by both patricians and plebeians.

Although not essential, the office of aedile was often seen as an integral part of the “Path of Honors”, one step on the path to become a consul. An individual might begin his climb as a military tribune, eventually rising to the office of quaestor. If he were a plebeian, he had the option of becoming either a tribune of the plebs or an aedile. However, if he were a patrician, his only option was to become an aedile. From there, if he was successful and impressed the appropriate people as an aedile, he could become a praetor, the only other officer beside the consul with imperium powers. Lastly, if he had been successful and, like some, bribed the right individuals, he would become a consul, the pinnacle of a politician's career.

While an ambitious aedile received the usual government allowance to perform his duties, it was not always sufficient, especially if he planned on becoming a consul. Often, he would have to use personal money or borrow heavily to curry favor with those in the assembly and Roman Senate, staging elaborate gladiatorial contests and public games. If successful, he would advance; if not, he was politically ruined.

Continue reading...

[pythagoras180]

How "Pretension" fakes Marinette's "character growth"

I used to believe that "Pretension" had a nice moment that established that Marinette had grown as a character since "Cat Blanc". In both episodes, Gabriel talks to Marinette after finding out she's dating Adrien, and he tries to get her to break up with him. In "Cat Blanc", Marinette concedes. In "Pretension", she refuses. This seems like character growth.

The problem is that these two situations aren't comparable at all. In "Cat Blanc", Gabriel holds nothing back, and immediately threatens to take Adrien out of school and isolate him from everyone else if Marinette doesn't break up with him. But in "Pretension", for some reason, Gabriel doesn't go nearly that far. He only gives minor warnings that he'll find a way to separate them even if Marinette doesn't comply, and his main tactic is actually to try to bribe Marinette with a promise of success in the fashion industry. So of course Marinette would respond differently to these situations, this doesn't provide evidence of any kind of growth at all.

If Gabriel had tried to bribe Marinette in "Cat Blanc", would she have accepted? Of course not. And if Gabriel had threatened Adrien in "Pretension", would Marinette have conceded? Honestly, I think so.

In "Cat Blanc", Marinette was doing what she thought was her only option to protect Adrien. Her flaw was probably that she didn't attempt to talk to Adrien and figure something else out, she instead did exactly what Gabriel told her. But that's not weakness of will, that's her being unwilling to put any kind of burden on Adrien. And "Pretension" does not test this flaw, because again, Gabriel doesn't threaten Adrien's happiness in this episode. So it looks like even the minor character growth I thought Marinette had was never real.

[pazziwbb535]

Interesting how prevoius anon is harder on a rookie, playing in her second regular season game, for making "rookie mistakes" than a vet that should know better. Paige made mistakes but she was the best starter on the floor.

The team took the lead at the end of the first quarter while Arike over-reacted to getting her shot blocked, then committed a foul soon after along with getting a tech within the first few minutes of the first quarter. Arike is used to playing hero ball and she has to adapt to not playing that way since she has help. Arike is great when she's shooting well, but when her shots aren't falling and she don't get any calls she hurts her team by not doing anything else to make an impact. She had the opportunity to be a vet and leader and she chose to be selfish when her team needed her the most. Makes no sense that a rookie is more mature, plays with poise, control and discipline more than her vets.

I knew this would happened which why I didn't want Paige in Dallas. I can totally see Arike's ego being hurt and her holding this team back whether than allowing the team to have success without her being the first option. We saw this happened with Satou Sabally. In 2023, Satou was arguable the best player on the wings and McCowan was playing her best basketball but Arike would cost them games. That 2023 season was the wings best season since moving to Dallas. They made it to the semis. 2 seasons later Satou wanted out when she saw Arike would rather play hero ball over team ball which would cost them games. I'm seeing history repeat itself with Paige. For the sake of the Wings and Arike, they better not fumble Paige or else Wings will be forever known for not keeping stars while Arike will forever be known for being unable to along side other stars

i really appreciate everything you brought up — so many important points here.

Paige absolutely looked like the most composed, steady presence on the floor last night. she brought a calm energy, kept her head, made smart reads, and showed maturity. her court vision is unreal, but beyond that, she just plays with a sense of control that this team desperately needed in a game that was slipping away.

what’s been frustrating to watch is the disconnect between that composure and the emotional intensity we saw from Arike. i have so much respect for her talent — she’s been the face of this franchise and has carried the load for years — but with the way this roster has evolved, it’s clear the team dynamic has to shift. her shot wasn’t falling early, and instead of resetting, she responded with a quick foul, then a tech, and spent the rest of the night forcing tough shots. the team needed leadership in that moment, and instead, it felt like frustration took over.

this is where it becomes less about individual talent and more about fit, growth, and leadership. Arike is great when she’s on — no one’s denying that — but when the shot isn’t falling or she’s not getting calls, there needs to be a willingness to adapt and find other ways to impact the game. last night, that didn’t happen. and it was even more noticeable because a rookie was out there showing what it looks like to play with poise.

i also hear you on the Satou comparison — it’s something that’s quietly lingered in the background for a while now. that 2023 Wings team was the best we’d seen in a long time. Satou was thriving, McCowan was dominant, and there was a real sense of momentum. but even in that run, you could see moments where hero ball disrupted the rhythm. and now, two seasons later, Satou’s gone. it’s hard not to look at that and wonder what could’ve been if the team had been more committed to playing together instead of relying on one person to do it all.

that’s why Paige’s arrival feels so important. she’s the kind of player who elevates everyone around her — but that only works if the team lets her. if egos get in the way, if there’s resistance to letting the offense run through her, or hesitation to adjust roles, it’s going to stall the team’s progress. and honestly, it would be heartbreaking to watch another potential star get pushed out because the system couldn’t evolve.

the Wings have a real opportunity here. they have young talent, experienced vets, and a fanbase that wants to see it all come together. but they can’t keep fumbling pieces and blaming chemistry. at some point, leadership — on and off the court — has to step up and create a culture where stars can actually shine TOGETHER.

because if they don’t, then yeah, the narrative becomes: Dallas can’t hold onto talent, and Arike can’t coexist with other stars. and i don’t want that to be the story. i want to root for her. i want to see her evolve and be part of this team’s growth. but that takes accountability and a willingness to change.

i’m still hopeful. it’s early. there’s time to adjust. but the patterns are starting to repeat — and i think everyone sees it. so i hope we see some changes.

[brujamala-aka-gigi]

sea bunny plushies and random tarot messages

( ( i had to take some time off because life was being too exhausting but now i'm back with my pac readings, missed tumblr so much tbh. ) )

so: pick a sea bunny plushie and let's see what random pieces of advice you can get from the tarot.

number 1 number 2 number 3

number 4 number 5 number 6

꒰ঌ ✦ scroll down for the results ໒꒱ ༘*.ﾟ

-ˋˏ ༻ ❁ Masterpost and Tarot Menu ❁༺ ˎˊ-

images are from pinterest and dividers are by @nicodefresas

reblog if you enjoyed this reading or if you enjoy sea bunny plushies <3

༘⋆♡⸝⸝💌⊹。°˖➴

꒰ BUNNY NUMBER ONE ꒱ؘ ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ

Being overly confident and reliant on thoughts that don’t come from healthy spaces is understandable if you’re in a desperate rush to find stability in your life. But sometimes these ideas will make you unable to move further, especially if moving on involves the questioning of such toxic beliefs. It is quite normal to find comfort in what we already know, but just because something is normalized (on the outside world or on your inner world) it doesn’t mean it’s healthy, or that it’s actually genuine to you. Even if your ambitions are coherent, take time to reflect on how you understand and conceptualize your own struggle and your path to success.

꒰ BUNNY NUMBER TWO ꒱ؘ ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ

Neglecting healthy conversations about your emotions for the sake of other’s comfort is definitely stunting the development of many unrelated matters, not recognizing the importance of preserving your mental and emotional stability, is taking a toll on other aspects of your life. You’re giving away too much of your energy to people and places that won’t make an effort to comprehend the real complexity and validity of your purest emotions. Even if you feel like you’ve recently been too emotional, that won’t be solved by dissociating yourself from something so human and natural as feelings are.

꒰ BUNNY NUMBER THREE ꒱ؘ ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ

This is a great moment to understand that it’s okay if you are not entirely sure on what to do next with your life. Taking the time to rest or taking an entirely new direction is also part of your own life path. Don’t expect answers that will come from outside yourself, you will find more clarity if you focus on building your own spaces of comfort and growth with the resources and people you already have in your life. Don’t look for things that are not meant to find you yet, find the time to take care and nurture what’s already there for you to help you grow.

꒰ BUNNY NUMBER FOUR ꒱ؘ ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ

Even if it is quite undesirable to be in situations where you have to embrace chaos and accept uncertainty, it is helpful to understand that uninterrupted stability eventually begins to feel like stagnation. Situations of conflict are necessary on time to time in order to test the value and strength of anything. It’s key to understand that what’s needed in moment’s of instability is not a toxic sense of optimism and hope, but more so an objective analysis of  what can be done since the problem is giving an opportunity to fix what’s broken and check what could break next.

꒰ BUNNY NUMBER FIVE ꒱ؘ ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ

Your decision taking abilities might be affected by a false sense of urgency on time to time. If your mind is moving too quickly and it seems like there’s only few options where you have to go all in, just know that it’s likely that you are not thinking completely straight. Being paralyzed and stuck on unhealthy thought patterns is keeping you away from seeing the full picture. The overly rationalized insecurities and negative self talk might be unperceivable due to it being incorporated as normal and healthy “self criticism”. Is not, and it’ll affect your life negatively.

꒰ BUNNY NUMBER SIX ꒱ؘ ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ

It’s okay to embrace the simple pleasures in life and feel confident in material success, yet being overly fixated on this will take away many opportunities to develop a deeper perspective on many issues you might be wilfully ignoring. Don’t allow yourself to change your core beliefs in order to appease hedonistic needs, as this will bring you to periods of stagnation. Take the time to establish your priorities and keep them in mind whenever anything feels too good to be true, if you don’t care for your success, nobody else will.

Hey hiii, it's me, Gigi. I hope you enjoyed this reading and you found something helpful or entertaining on it. In all honesty, im so so soo obsessed with those plushies like, i couldn't resist the urge to use them as visuals for this post i dont care how unserious it seems.

anyways, i'm back to being cronically online, my bookings are open so check my tarot menu if you're interested. and my masterpost has all my pac readings so far if you're into them.

if you feel like reblogging and liking this post, i appreciate the shit out of that and i love you.

i think i don't have much else to say, other than hi im back, missed this place so much.

so,,, bye <3 much love, gigi.

[f1rewalk3r]

I want to listen to some "car seat headrest" to better understand you and henghost. What do you recommend

well first and foremost i would recommend not doing that. if you’re dead set then i must give you the caveat that much of the CSH discography is about 1) going through a homoerotic breakup 2) being a desperate drunk degenerate college student 3) leaving town or 4) all over the above. if none of these apply to you then you may find that CSH doesn’t quite “click.”

Car Seat Headrest is the internet’s indie darling, started in 2010 by Will Toldeo. It was not his first project, but was his most successful. He released 12 projects on bandcamp (including the now delisted “numbered albums” and their outtakes) before being signed to Matador Records in 2015, releasing 4 albums under their label.

Stylistically, CSH can be a bit all over the place. Although they will always fall under the indie umbrella, they’ve gone from experimental lofi “shitgaze” (shitty shoegaze) to experimental electronic tracks, to 90s inspired garage rock to full on electronica pop. They have a little something for everything!

With that said, there are two available routes for you. the first is to start with one of the most popular albums, then work your way backwards in the discography. Alternatively, you can start at the very beginning, experiencing the growth of the lyricism and production quality.

Of the two, I’d recommend the former option, meaning you should start with Teens of Denial (2016), an album about growing up, being a sad addict, and not knowing your place in the world. your other option is to start with the ultra famous Twin Fantasy (Face to Face) (2018). Often considered Will Toledo’s magnum opus, this album is about being gay, falling in love, being a little too fond of drugs, and ultimately ruining things in your relationship due to your inability to see yourself as human/stop idolizing your partner. I am not responsible for any damage listening to this album may do to your relationship. (this warning comes from anecdotal experience)

Whichever album of these two you pick first, your next step on the listening journey should be the other option. My immediate next pick would be to jump all the way back to Twin Fantasy (Mirror to Mirror ) (2011), the original, shittier(?), lofi version of TF. Do not let its production quality deceive you- this album is just as good as its modern remaster.

You could then go to the Living While Starving EP (2013), as MtM has introduced you to the more lofi sound that is iconic to much of the CSH discography. This EP features some classics like “It’s Only Sex” and “Reuse the Cels.”

From there, you should go to the fandom’s favorite album, How to Leave Town (2014). I don’t think words can describe this album properly. It’s like listening to the audio version of a panic attack. It’s indescribably good.

And if you get that far into the discography, well. I’m afraid it’s too late for you then.

I hope this serves as an insightful entry guide into Car Seat Headrest! Show henghost and maybe he can back up my claims/recommendations. Oh, and if you smoke weed at all, I’d highly recommend choosing to smoke while listening to Twin Fantasy. It truly makes the experience, especially if you smoke too much and spiral out of existence during the track “High to Death.”