#we strive toward our ideals

[shattered-pieces]

Trump wouldn't answer when asked if it was in the USA's best interests for Ukraine to win.

I would like to show people why it is in America's best interests, anyone who isn't clear about it.

For one thing, to not be complicit in atrocities. There are other things, but for me it's on the top of the list. Siding with russia means being ok with war crimes. That's not the kind of America I want to live in.

Idk, maybe I'm in the minority and people are ok with torture and rape and people bombed apart if it is done to Ukrainians, by russians.

[scoupsakakitty]

Unexpected, but Ours | idol!Wooyoung x Reader | angst, fluff

TW: discussions of abortion

Y/N sat on the edge of the bathtub, her fingers trembling as she clutched the small plastic stick in her hands. Two bold lines stared back at her, unwavering, undeniable. Her breath hitched, a wave of nausea rising in her throat—not from the pregnancy, but from the overwhelming storm of emotions crashing through her.

Pregnant.

The word echoed in her mind, heavy and suffocating. Her chest tightened as she blinked rapidly, her vision blurring. This wasn’t supposed to happen—not now, not like this. She and Wooyoung had been together for almost two years, still young, still figuring things out. And he…

Wooyoung was just at the beginning of his career, constantly moving, always striving for the next step. How was she supposed to tell him? How were they supposed to handle this?

The front door clicked open, followed by the familiar sound of Wooyoung’s voice calling out. "Babe? I’m home!"

Y/N quickly shoved the test into the drawer, her heart hammering against her ribs. She took a shaky breath, forcing herself to stand. She needed to tell him—there was no other way.

She found him in the living room, his face lighting up when he saw her. "Hey, beautiful." He leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. "Missed you."

She tried to smile, but it didn’t reach her eyes. "Wooyoung, I… I need to tell you something."

His brows furrowed immediately. "What’s wrong? Did something happen?"

Her fingers clenched the fabric of her hoodie. "I’m… I’m pregnant."

Silence.

Wooyoung stared at her, his face frozen in an unreadable expression. Seconds felt like hours as he processed her words. And then—

"What?" His voice cracked slightly, his hands dropping to his sides. "You’re… pregnant?"

Y/N nodded, her throat too tight to speak.

His chest rose and fell rapidly, his hands running through his hair. "How? I mean—I know how, but—fuck, Y/N." He took a step back, his head shaking. "This… this wasn’t supposed to happen. We’re not ready for this. I’m barely ever here, my schedule is insane, and you… You’d have to do so much alone."

Tears welled in her eyes, her own fears amplified by his reaction. "I know," she whispered. "I know it’s not ideal. I don’t know what to do either."

Wooyoung exhaled sharply, pacing the room. "Shit. Shit. What are we gonna do? I can’t—" He stopped, his hands gripping his head. "This is huge, Y/N. It’s not just about us anymore."

Y/N swallowed hard before whispering, "I don’t even know if I want to keep it."

Wooyoung’s entire body went still. His head snapped toward her, his eyes wide with shock. "What?"

She bit her lip, her voice barely audible. "I don’t know if we should have this baby, Wooyoung. We’re so young. You’re never here. I don’t know if I can do this alone."

His expression twisted, hurt flashing across his face. "You’re thinking about not keeping it?" His voice was barely controlled, his emotions a whirlwind of disbelief and panic. "Y/N, this is our baby. How can you even consider—"

"Because I’m scared!" she suddenly burst out, her voice cracking under the weight of her emotions. "I’m terrified, Wooyoung! This isn’t just some minor decision—we are talking about bringing a whole life into this world! A life that will depend on me when you’re gone for weeks, months! How am I supposed to do this without you?"

Wooyoung clenched his jaw, his hands shaking as he raked them through his hair again. "I wouldn’t leave you alone. I’d find a way—"

"How?" Her voice was filled with raw desperation. "How, Wooyoung? You love what you do. You’ve worked so hard for this career, and I won’t be the reason you throw it all away."

"And what about you?" he shot back, his voice thick with emotion. "Do you really think getting rid of it will make things easier? That it won’t haunt you?" His voice cracked at the last word, his eyes shining. "I know this is terrifying, Y/N. But this is us. We made this. And I can’t just—" He exhaled shakily. "I can’t just let it go."

Y/N felt fresh tears spill down her cheeks, her entire body trembling. "I don’t want to be alone in this. I don’t want to bring a baby into this world and have them feel like an inconvenience."

Wooyoung’s heart clenched at her words. He reached out, gripping her hands tightly. "That will never happen. Our baby will never feel like an inconvenience. And you will never be alone, I swear it."

She shook her head. "You don’t know that."

"Then let me prove it to you." His voice was raw, desperate. "I’ll take a hiatus. A whole year. I don’t care what it takes—I’ll be there every single day. And when I go back on tour, you’re coming with me. No matter where I go, you and our baby will be right there. And if I have to be away for a little while, my mom will be here for you. She’ll love and support you just like she’s always done."

Y/N stared at him, searching for any sign of uncertainty in his words—but there was none. Only unwavering devotion.

"I need you to trust me, baby," he whispered. "I know I messed up at first, but I promise you, we can do this. You don’t have to be afraid anymore."

A sob broke past her lips, and Wooyoung immediately pulled her into his arms. She clung to him, her tears soaking his shirt, and for the first time in hours, she allowed herself to believe in his words.

"Okay," she whispered shakily. "Okay."

Wooyoung pressed a lingering kiss to the top of her head. "We’re in this together. No matter what."

[miraamio]

jjk 271 has convinced me that no famous piece of media can ever have a tolerable fanbase.

To start off, Gojo’s death was actually very beautifully done and not once have i believed that he should’ve come back. One thing that Gojo strived for after Geto’s defection was to create a Jujutsu society that wouldn’t corner their sorcerers as mere weapons and take away their youth. He was a firm believer of the fact that honing strong students would reshape and shake the very foundation of jujutsu society.

We know of Gojo’s inherent weaponisation. But it is not only Gojo who undergoes this objectification and weaponisation, it is actually every sorcerer in the jujutsu society. We don’t see Nanami, Yuki, Gojo or even Yaga get a funeral. It is because of two prominent reasons. One being the fact that the jujutsu society was built upon such shallow beliefs that the death of these sorcerers was simply brushed aside as a common occurrence. They are not offered a “funeral” or a memorial simply because these sorcerers are mere weapons to the jujutsu society and the death of a weapon simply concludes its existence and its period of serving. It is to be discarded, not mourned over, for it is simply a weapon. But another, surprisingly kinder reason, is offered to us by the narrative. As Todo Aoi says, “Grieving over the departed can tarnish their memories. Instead we must carry their will forward.” Through this we are allowed to finally understand the reason for the innumerable Gojo flashbacks during these last few chapters.

Gojo is a character who suffered from loneliness and isolation in his own unique way. It was never something that held him back yet he expresses his want to not be forgotten in the last conversation he had with Yuji. He also expresses his firm belief in his students rather than himself because he is aware that even if HE loses his students won’t. This completely changes the meaning of the infamous “Nah I’d win” panel because he wasn’t talking about his solo victory, but rather his victory as a teacher who raised sorcerers to be stronger than him and of the victory his students would achieve for him.

For a character like Gojo who wants not to be forgotten, Sukuna offers him the much needed solace of remembrance. “I’ll never forget you.” Sukuna ensures that Satoru and the very narrative make note of his choice to remember the sorcerer for the rest of his life. The two strongest sorcerers who exist as complete anti parallels to each other in both ideals and beliefs find a common ground in their shared loneliness that comes with being the strongest.

Satoru’s death was a very deserving and beautiful end for his character. He died while being acknowledged and remembered. He passed on to go south, back to his old self where his happiest memories lay, no other ending would be greater for Satoru Gojo than this.

Secondly, the interpretation of Sukuna and Uraume’s relationship. There was no context given as to who they used to be or where their uncanny companionship stemmed from, throughout the story we only see them as entities of the present, not getting a look into their dynamic during the heian era. The only few panels we get during Yorozu’s part just reestablish Uraume as a dutiful and faithful servant to their lord. So to see Sukuna display such tenderness towards them in the last chapter kind of dismantles our idea of their relationship. Mahito says Sukuna sought revenge for the execution of “that wench.” Then further, Sukuna explains how he had two paths, one with a black haired woman and one with Uraume, he chooses the one with Uraume to begin their lives anew.

In the conclusion of their story, Gege’s choice to keep Sukuna and Uraume’s joint past unexplained was a clever choice to not tarnish the sanctity of their relationship. It allows the reader to interpret their dynamics in whatever way they wish to. Because what is more important than the nature of their relationship, is Sukuna’s openness to understanding and partaking in the act of “love.” You may see it as parental, familial or romantic, it is not the nature that holds significance, it is the act itself.

Personally I like to picture Sukuna as a guardian or authoritative figure who took in Uraume with a guardian like intent to raise them and in this new life, will be able to nurture them with love. But again, the ending is quiet open for everyone’s own interpretation. Its just that i feel for Sukuna, a character who refused to believe in the very concept of love, a guardian-like role would be truly grounding as it wouldn’t impose conditionality on them, like a romantic relationship does. However, as i said, the nature matters less than the act itself.

To argue over the nature of their relationship is simply stupid. People are allowed to have their own interpretations of unspecified relationships, and creating unnecessary arguments over the validity of your own interpretation of their relationship takes away from the very essence of Sukuna and Uraume’s ending.

[journeythroughtarot]

Walking your Path - Are you on the right path?

With so many things that could go wrong, we can often become restless at the thought of where we are going and if we have chosen the right path. It is important to remember that no path is the wrong path, as all parts of our journey are here to teach us something about ourselves and the world around us. But we can often become stuck on our journey or find ourselves going backwards, and sometimes we realise the choice we made is no longer serving us. Our uncertainty can also be our biggest obstacle, so if you are wondering if you are on the right path, this pick a pile is for you.

Pile 1 | Pile 2 | Pile 3

Remember to take what resonates with you and be understanding that the messages from these cards can be applied to all walks of life.

Pile 1

Your search for destiny

Destiny, Air 8, Air 12 - The Scribe

For this pile, there is one thing that is standing out amongst everything else and that is pride. Pride of who you think you are and pride of where you think you are on your current journey. You use your intelligence and vast understanding to further your knowledge of your current path, but you may do so to an extent of always staying on top of where you are instead of enjoying the present moment for what it is. I get this image of always trying to stay ahead, to control, to achieve and fix. These things make you feel better about yourself but they are actually standing in the way of your destiny. Destiny is not manufactured by careful planning and staying ahead of the lessons that are served to you. Destiny is fallen upon, guided towards you, and shown to you through the darkness. Squinting your eyes will not enable you to see it more. This may be a hard lesson for many who pick this pile as letting go and trusting the path that is served to you can be a difficult task. Learn to let go of your pride and acknowledge that you too will be in places of vulnerability and ignorance. Mistakes will be made, but they will not make you any less of a person. You have built these walls around you to stop you from feeling the pain and self-judgement that could await you if you acknowledged your hand in these mistakes. You are careful in your search for knowledge and self-development because you may have felt the fringes of these emotions in the past. Intellectualising your past and your feelings will not enable you to understand the heart of everything you have learned.

Trying to see if you are on the right path may be something you find yourself doing. Learn to let go and to trust all that the universe will show you. Barriers can only be broken if you allow yourself to walk into the unknown with the understanding that you have right now instead of the understanding you wish to have in the future.

Pile 2

Your need for order

Perception, Air 4, Thought

Your perception of where you are in your journey is being obscured by your thoughts and what you are allowing to take your focus. As you walk your path, your awareness and focus of what is playing out around you is being limited by negative thinking. I get this image of being pulled in multiple directions, by routines and timings, deadlines and tasks, making sure you get things done in the right way in the right time in the right order. Your focus on negative thinking - self-doubts, expectations, pressures, self-judgements, just to name a few - is pulling you away from what matters most. You may be always trying to harness productivity to make it work for you, but instead find yourself coming across obstacles. The path doesn't look right enough for you and you may have expectations of what it should look like. Your perception of yourself, your achievements, and your progress is being clouded by these thoughts, taking you away from the reality of your journey. This ideal of what you want your life to be like is only taking you further away from yourself. Striving for perfection in everything ignores the beauty of life and the work that goes into taking one step at a time. The fear of failure will only make you see failure in everything you do.

You may be looking for the right path, something glorious, productive, and easy going, but it ignores everything that is right in front of you. Life is much more than just sailing highs, it is also full of mistakes, grief, and pain. And these do not make the highs any less worthy or precious.

Pile 3

Your desire for safety

Queen of Earth, Water 6, The Maiden

You are aiming high for the life you want, aspiring towards the space you want to create for yourself, the beauty you want to cultivate, and the experiences you wish to manifest. You may have already dreamt about the abundance this life will give you and what it looks like in all its glory. What you may not have seen is that you are at the early stages of this journey, learning one step at a time and slowly taking all this abundant joy from creative vision into reality. You are on the path to independence and maturity, discovering everything that life can show you. What you need to remember is that you are not at the end of this journey. The joy of this is that there is much to learn, so enjoy the journey. You may be guarded over this vision, of this space, wanting to protect it from anything that might tear it down. Know that any intrusion will teach you something about yourself and the world around you, and some may end up changing your journey for the better. Something you need to remember along this path is to show yourself empathy and kindness, and perhaps this will enable you to do the same for others when it is needed. Grow your self-esteem and sense of self-worth like a seed that needs careful attention. Make a home for your vulnerabilities that is abundant in compassion and unconditional love. All the better to help you protect your space.

You are on your chosen path, but remember that there is much to learn and see before you reach your destination. Life will come in small steps with chances to grow, change, and develop your inner self.

[weecherylita]

Thoughts on the Neil Gaiman Allegations

I followed Neil Gaiman on tumblr not because I'm a massive fan of his work (I've read two of his books, and one of those he co-wrote with someone else) but because it was interesting to get behind-the-scenes info about Good Omens.

Because he seemed, for the most part, to be a pretty affable and interesting person.

Because it was nice to see someone so prominent be willing to assert the rights and dignity of lgbt people, and most especially trans people in this era where they are being consistently vilified and used as a political punching bag in my own country and elsewhere.

Because his writing advice was decent, and he seemed to value and support artistic endeavour in all its forms.

Because the stories from readers talking about what his work had meant to them were a consistent reminder of the power of art to connect us all and transform our lives.

Because he consistently advocated kindness.

(I know some people have been saying he couldn't handle criticism and he bad-mouthed other public figures, but I think I must have missed those incidents - my impression was that he was very often complimenting and defending people).

It was a horrible shock to learn that (yet again) a creator I respected fell so far short of embodying the values he spoke up for. When things like that happen it can make you question human decency itself, especially when it just seems to keep happening again and again; public figures who seem so progressive turn out to be abusers. Is human goodness just a story we tell ourselves? Is genuine progress even possible, when those who speak up for it prove themselves to be so incapable of living by those ideals?

I don't know how much of Gaiman's public persona was genuine and how much was just a front for some consciously manipulative and predatory behaviour. To be honest, I'm not sure I care if we ever find out how much of what we saw was real. He's lost our respect - most likely forever, and he shouldn't be put in a position where he can abuse people's trust again.

I'm sorry for the people he hurt, and I hope they get time to heal.

And I think those values that I saw in him are all still true, even if he is false.

Kindness and decency is still something to live by, even and especially in times of darkness.

Art still has the power to move, connect and transform us, whether you want to keep reading Gaiman's works or not (and if you're finding it tough because you've lost that enjoyment and connection to stories that meant a lot to you, know that there WILL be other works out there that can make you feel it again).

Creative endeavour IS still inherently valuable.

Transgender lives and identities still matter. Transgender people are still deserving of dignity and respect. There may be plenty of transphobic people out there who feel emboldened by this, and I'm not gonna pretend to understand exactly how scary and horrible that must feel. All I can say is that there are other people out there who still believe in you, and still want to support you.

Human decency is not a lie. I guess we need to be wary of public figures who come across as too good to be true and remember that everyone has capacity for both good and bad, but not everyone fails as badly as him. Not everyone succumbs to their worst instincts. Not everyone is an abuser. Human goodness is still alive, and something to strive toward and take comfort in.

[sjmattson]

I’ve heard some pastors and Christian influencers degrade the idea of passionately promoting the kindness and love of Jesus. They make the theological claim that the point of Christianity is to glorify God above all else—not promote the idea that Jesus is loving to all.

They say that the ultimate goal isn’t to help people in the world—but rather to glorify God. In a recent popular social media clip, a pastor uses this logic to essentially diminish the importance of helping people in the world, reiterating that it’s not the most important mission of the Church. Instead, the preacher suggests that glorifying God is the highest ideal to strive for.

This all sounds great because glorifying God IS a great goal, and as followers of God that is what we try to do. So what’s the problem?

The issue is that this message isn’t being inspired by the Holy Spirit, but rather by a hatred toward’s “woke” and “progressive” Christianity. It’s a not-so-subtle condemnation towards Christians who embrace inclusivity, social justice, and other characteristics deemed too liberal.

But when we read the gospels, we see that people literally ask God how they can best glorify God! We actually have the question asked and have an exact account of how God answered.

In Matthew 22:37-40 (NIV) Jesus is asked what the greatest commandment is, and he responded : “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

All the Law and Prophets hang on these two commandments: To love God and to love your neighbor. Jesus is saying that all of your religious faith—it’s holy scriptures, prophecies, traditions, and beliefs—are founded on these two things.

There it is. This is what God wants above all else. To glorify God, we must love our neighbor. So to suggest that our ultimate goal is to glorify God instead of being kind and loving to people is a false dichotomy, because God literally commands us to love God by loving people. He puts them together.

Critics may say “but to love God and to love your neighbor are still listed as two separate things.” Instead of interpreting the two being listed together by God as a sign of the importance of loving people, they’ll suggest loving others is secondary.

But to dismiss the importance loving others is to dismiss Jesus. Because in this very same conversation, Jesus talks about who will inherent the Kingdom of God and says in Matt 25: 37-40:

“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

And if we look at the overall context of Jesus’s life and ministry—its primary focus is on loving people.

If your ultimate goal is to glorify God, start by loving your neighbors. Not deporting them, oppressing them, vilifying them, lying to them, hating them, and attacking them—but by loving them.

[you-cant-fuck-megaman]

Here, we all wonder why people can’t, but does anyone even stop to think if Robot Masters even have such capabilities? Because I feel like there are implications to making your industrial robots have the ability to bang in the first place. You don’t design and add a feature on your expensive robot just to not use it in some capacity.

I was wondering your thoughts on the matter. I hope this isn’t a bit too serious since I know this is a lighthearted blog, but stuff like this bothers me because I think too much.

It's definitely not too serious, but it's something I'm going to have to step out of character to do, since Stop Man has a lot of baggage about this subject and there's some things I can't shitpost about in good conscience.

You're correct in that there's a lot of implications in making industrial robots with the ability to have sex in the first place! There are a lot of implications.

Now, keep in mind that this is a franchise for children. Capcom isn't going to go into it, and most fandom participants aren't going to dig into it. And they have every right to not want to! But as any asexual in the last several centuries can tell you, the impact sex has on the way society at large engages with the individual formulates much of our life, whether on a micro level or a macro level.

If we're going to do some serious hypothetical worldbuilding upon the themes of this over-35-year children's franchise, we have to think about the nasty. Logically speaking, with Light striving for a transhumanist future where humans and robots live in harmony, that will have to include sex in some capacity. Sex, including the choice to have sex or to not have sex, is an essential part of the human experience.

And for a good chunk of humans, that's something they have the freedom to explore, learning about what they wish and what makes them feel whole as a person. What is it that you enjoy? What do you not enjoy? Do you want to pursue sexual satisfaction? Do you want to save it for someone that you feel is special? Do you feel your heart beat towards one person but you feel a burning inside towards another? Does it not interest you at all and it's just another part of your body's upkeep? Or etc, etc.

It's not universal, unfortunately, but ideally that's given to them by default. People given this have the freedom to explore how it defines them as a person.

Robots, well...don't have this by default. Your vacuum cleaner doesn't have a dick. It can't explore that. And that's okay, it's not human. It doesn't need to explore that.

But what if it did? What if we wanted it to be more human?

Now we're getting into some potentially very-horrifying territory.

The robots in the Mega Man world are not self-aware, not until the X timeline. The Archie comics struggled with this a bit, but generally speaking that's the big divide--until the X series, robots cannot make their own decisions. If you are building a robot, be it a Master or another kind, and you start installing naughty bits onto it, you are intentionally putting your choices onto another being.

Likewise, Robot Masters personalities have to be programmed. You can't just type install_Personality(); into the command line prompt--machines cannot do things by themselves. Machines must be specifically made to consider if X, then Y. If this, then that. If you make a machine to count from 1 to 10, and then ask it what goes past 10, it will not know what the fuck an 11 is. It has no concept of anything past ten. Maybe a 101? Going up to 1010. Then after that is 10101? The existence of an 11 must be explicitly defined by a creator. If you make a machine to catalogue a list of aquatic animals, you need to have a defined database of animals to sort through as "aquatic" and "not aquatic".

This is supported in canon by the existence of the IC chip, the Integrated Circuit--where everything that makes a Robot Master them, a dedicated storage house for all of their thought processes, considerations, and clauses to run through when making decisions. Even if we consider that the Megaman world runs on fucking wizardtech and it's possible that there's generative AI processes that theoretically allow for the generation of new reactions/thoughts/etc on the fly, there has to be a seed for this data to draw new information from in the first place.

This seed has to come from someone. And that someone is defining their thoughts and feelings on sex beforehand. And if that someone defines it as "you like sex, and you like sex with me specifically", that is...

Well, at best, that's an abuse of a power dynamic. When you're responsible for the well-being of another, you are in a favorable position of power that you really shouldn't use for your own satisfaction. Fucking your boss is kinky, but you really shouldn't.

At worst...well. As I mentioned before, this choice isn't universal even among humans. To this day, we have people being being forced to live lives that they don't want, and to be with and do things with people they don't want to.

There's ethical ways to handle this. It's possible to have a very in-depth exploration of the different roles, kinds, and ideas of sex and start setting up databases of those--attempt to give a neutral presentation. But what is neutral? Even nowadays, people argue about what's good and what's not good, don't they? When I wrote just one paragraph earlier "Fucking your boss is kinky, but you really shouldn't do it", I can guarantee you there are at least two readers--one that was nodding because they think it's morally wrong to do so and another who's thinking "But it doesn't really hurt anyone...and it'd be really hot for me and the boss". And that's one of the most plain vanilla kinks out there--but even on something as plain vanilla as that, the creator's own thoughts would influence the thoughts they inscribe into the machine. And the machine, in turn would use that thought as a basis to expand on their own thoughts.

We know the vacuum cleaner really is into sucking. But does it suck because it likes to suck, or because it was programmed to like sucking, or because it was told to suck and that's an extrapolation of performing its function (which is the natural job of a machine)? Now it's all existential and shit.

The only way to completely bypass this would be through self-aware, free-thinking machines--machines that develop themselves and do things outside of the limitations of their programming. Which we have, in canon! Reploids! From Mega Man X! Surely they would be the fuckable ones, right?

Well, yeah. They are.

I'm sure once I get back in-character and we hit the X series, Stop Man will be sputtering about how you can't fuck them because that's how he is. Or maybe I'll have a Reploid character who does that, I dunno. But if the theme of the Classic world is one of the relation between the robot and the roboticist, the theme of the X world is one of choice. They would not be restrained by the nature of what they've been programmed with--they can choose what they want to do.

But that also comes with its own consequences.

The Mega Man X world is very fascinating to me because it (very lightly) brushes against a narrative theme that I've always found tantalizing in classic literature; accepting the beauty of free will also means accepting the frustrations of free will. If you let people make their own choices, that also means that some people will not agree on what the right thing is--or worse, will intentionally not choose the right thing. If we create a new race of superpowered beings to aid us, and they decide not to aid us but instead to hurt us, how do we handle that? Do we try and suppress what made them different for our own protection? Do we roll over and let them kick us and take it for the sake of societal progress? Do we try to establish a set of guidelines to follow and systems to help maintain order? At which point, how much order is too much order? Etc, etc.

It's all very Asimovian and shit, which is appropriate since the series is founded on the Asimov laws. But the point of the laws in Asimov's stories WAS THAT THEY DIDN'T WORK! The X series is written with all the narrative skill of a ferret let loose across a series of typewriters, and hoooooooly shit does the Zero series handle it even worse.

But it's there. Robot are built, they're put off the assembly line, and they have a choice; they can choose what they like, what they don't like, what they want to do, who they want to do it with, and more. But as a result of their sexual liberation, they end up wrestling with a lot more in society as a result.

X is really struggling with the Dick of Damocles, there.

[cyberclouddream]

Fixed Signs through the Angular Houses

our drive to stabilize

The Fixed Signs

Taurus: our drive to seek stability and comfort; the need to create and maintain a solid and pleasurable environment; to establish security and material satisfaction. Taurus preserves through persistence and practical efforts, focusing on building lasting value and comfort

Leo: our drive to seek recognition and self-expression; to create and maintain a vibrant, fulfilling environment; to establish confidence and personal significance. Leo preserves by staying true to their passions and building a legacy that commands respect and admiration.

Scorpio: our drive to seek depth and transformation; the need to uncover hidden truths and wield powerful influence; to establish profound connections and personal empowerment. Scorpio preserves by harnessing inner strength and building lasting, unshakable bonds.

Aquarius: our drive to seek innovation and rebellion; to create and foster a progressive, open environment; to establish community and shared ideals. Aquarius preserves by embracing individuality and championing unconventional thinking that inspires change.

Core Similarities: fixed signs are driven by persistence and focus. They work to create and keep stability, resisting changes and sticking with their plans

Core Differences: Taurus stabilizes by sticking to what’s familiar and comfortable. Leo stabilizes by seeking recognition and establishing their presence. Scorpio stabilizes by committing to transformation and change. Aquarius stabilizes by innovating and bringing about positive change.

The Angular Houses

These houses are the foundational pillars of our life, representing where our identity, responsibilities, and interactions play out. They indicate how we navigate public and public roles, and how we structure our experiences and ambitions.

1st House: how we present ourselves to the world and how we perceive our identity; our default mode for operating, the inherent traits and qualities that define our approach to life; our general attitude towards new experiences; how we want others to see us; how we initiate and sustain action

4th House: the roots of our upbringing and the foundation of our emotional security; how our family background impacts our sense of stability and security, along with our worldview; how we experience the end of our life; how we create our own home life, how we wish to live our later years and what we wish to leave behind; where we find solace

7th House: our approach to cooperation and conflict; the kind of people we attract in our lives and qualities we seek in others; how we handle interactions with significant others; how we engage with romantic partnerships, business alliances, or close personal relationships; our approach to formal agreements

10th House: our approach to authority and our reputation; how we plan for our future concerning society dynamics; our drive for success and our long-term goals, ambitions, and achievements; challenges we face in our professional life; how we strive to make a mark and achieve recognition; how we handle responsibility and how we’re perceived in the public sphere

Through the Rising Signs

Taurus Ascendants project a calm and steady demeanor, but deep down, they crave intellectual stimulation and variety [ Gemini IC ]. They attract partners who are intense and transformative [ Scorpio Descendant ], challenging them to embrace change and let go of their need for stability. In their careers [ Aquarius MC ], they are less concerned with conventional achievements and more focused on pursuing innovative or unconventional paths that align with their unique vision.

Leo Risings exude charisma and confidence, yet they deeply need emotional depth and security at home [ Scorpio IC ]. They attract partners who challenge conventions and provoke thought [ Aquarius Descendant ], pushing them to explore their own individuality and embrace change. In their careers [ Taurus MC ], they seek stability and material success through practical means, valuing enduring results over fleeting recognition or risky ventures.

Scorpio Ascendants project intensity and depth but need a home that offers intellectual freedom and unconventional thinking [ Aquarius IC ]. They attract partners who are steady and reliable [ Taurus Descendant ], grounding them. In their careers [ Leo MC ], they crave recognition and the chance to make a dramatic impact, channeling their passion into roles where they can shine and lead.

Aquarius Ascendants project a quirky, progressive image but secretly need a solid, reassuring home base that provides stability and comfort [ Taurus IC ] to balance out their eccentric nature. They often attract partners who are dynamic and attention-seeking [ Leo Descendant ], pushing them to be more expressive and confident. In their careers [ Scorpio MC ], they are driven by a desire for deep, transformative impact. They seek out roles that allow them to explore powerful, often hidden aspects of their field, preferring significant, intense work over conventional or superficial success.

[mystic-rubysunflower]

Libra Rising: The Charm of a Celestial Dawn

As a first house libra rising with black moon Lilith forming a conjunction with my ascendant, heres what I know from personal experience...Do you share these astro placements with me?? The first house not only influence but also presents a unique outlook on how the world perceives you. For those with Libra rising, the aura they project is that of charm, diplomacy, and a deep yearning for beauty and harmony.

Libra Rising: The First House and Its Significance

In astrology, the first house is an area of the chart that signifies one’s identity. It is the lens through which we view the world, our self-image, and the impressions we leave on others. With Libra ruling the first house, your approach to life is colored by themes of relationships, aesthetics, and a strong desire for equilibrium.

Imagine waking up every day driven by a need for balance—a delicate dance between your desires and those of the world around you. Libra rising individuals tend to prioritize social harmony, valuing partnerships and communal experiences above all. The key phrase for a Libra rising individual is often, "What’s in it for us?" This perspective extends beyond mere selfishness; rather, it reflects an inherent instinct towards collaboration and shared experiences, emphasizing that life can and should be better when it is lived together.

The Libra Personality Traits

Individuals with Libra rising are often seen as graceful and sociable. Their charisma lights up a room, drawing people in and making them feel comfortable. They possess an innate ability to relate to others, often finding common ground in almost any conversation. Here are a few hallmark traits that characterize those with Libra rising:

Diplomatic Nature

: Libra’s desire for harmony resonates deeply within these individuals. They often act as mediators in conflicts, keen on ensuring that all voices are heard. This diplomatic prowess enables them to navigate complex social situations with grace.

Aesthetic Sensibility

: People with Libra rising are often artistically inclined. They have an eye for beauty, whether in art, fashion, or interpersonal relationships. Their surroundings often reflect their taste and an appreciation for aesthetics.

Affectionate and Romantic

: Libra rising individuals cherish relationships, often forming deep emotional connections with others. Their romantic ideals are high, and they seek partnerships that bring balance and fulfillment to their lives.

Charming and Charismatic

: Naturally engaging, those with Libra rising often come off as charismatic. Their warm demeanor and polished communication skills make them easy to connect with, attracting friends and acquaintances alike.

Indecisive

: On the flip side, the need for balance can lead to indecision. Libra rising individuals may find it challenging to make choices, particularly when those choices can affect others.

Black Moon Lilith in Libra: An Intriguing Aspect

In astrology, Black Moon Lilith represents a unique aspect of feminine energy, often linked to themes of independence, rebellion against patriarchal constraints, and embracing one’s primal energy. When Lilith is placed in Libra and occupies the first house alongside your Ascendant, the dynamics of relationships and the search for balance take on an intriguing intensity.

With Black Moon Lilith in Libra, the interplay between partnerships and independence becomes complex. While Libra rising embodies socialization, harmony, and collaboration, Lilith pulsates with an appeal to assert personal freedom and explore one's darker instincts. Here are some key elements that illustrate their coexistence:

Magnetic Presence

: Individuals with this placement often exude a magnetic quality. While they strive for social harmony, there's an underlying sense of mystery that draws others in. The Lilith energy adds an edge to their charm, making them intriguing figures who keep people guessing.

Struggle for Equality and Independence

: The desire for balance can sometimes clash with the need for independence. Libra rising individuals with a Lilith influence often grapple with the tension of wanting closeness while simultaneously needing to assert their individuality. This dynamic can lead to struggles within partnerships, causing them to oscillate between wanting to connect and seeking freedom.

Exploration of Relationships

: Relationships become a fertile ground for personal exploration as they navigate the realms of unity and independence. Many encounter provocative experiences in their partnerships that push them to confront their own desires and boundaries.

Emphasis on Authenticity

: Lilith in Libra can foster a desire for authenticity in relationships. These individuals are not content with superficial connections; they seek depth and meaning, valuing honesty and transparency as they navigate romantic entanglements.

Challenges with Trust

: The juxtaposition of Libra's idealism and Lilith's chaotic energy may lead to a wariness in trusting others. This placement can result in a precautionary nature, where they may unconsciously push back against vulnerability, fearing that such openness may jeopardize their independence.

Navigating Life as a Libra Rising with Lilith

Living with Libra rising and Black Moon Lilith in the first house translates into a rich, textured life that can be both rewarding and challenging. Here are some ways to navigate through the complexities of this unique combination:

Prioritize Self-Awareness

Understanding your motivations and desires is key. Reflect on your relationship patterns and how they align with your need for both partnership and independence. This insight will guide you in making decisions that honor your inner needs while still appreciating the essence of connection.

Balance Independence with Togetherness

Embrace activities that allow personal space within relationships. Consider deepening your individual interests or hobbies that positively challenge partnerships. Finding time for solitude can recharge your spirit and enhance your ability to engage with others.

Foster Authentic Relationships

Seek connections that nourish your soul. Surround yourself with people who respect and cherish your individuality while encouraging emotional depth. These interactions will fuel your inner desire for authenticity.

Trust Your Instincts

Developing trust—both in yourself and others—is vital. While the push-and-pull of your energies may induce moments of hesitancy, learning to listen to your instincts will promote growth. Embrace vulnerability by opening up to those who have proven themselves trustworthy.

Embrace Your Chaotic Energy

Rather than shying away from Lilith's chaotic influence, lean into it. Explore creative outlets, engage in self-expression, and allow your inner rebel to thrive. This authenticity not only enriches your life but enhances your presence among others.

Libra rising individuals exemplify the art of relationships and diplomacy, weaving a path of charm and beauty in the world. The presence of Black Moon Lilith in Libra adds an exciting dimension to their journey—inviting exploration of the delicate interplay between partnerships and individual identity. Understanding and harnessing these energies allows Libra rising individuals to navigate the world with both grace and authenticity.

♎⚖️🐚🖤

Ultimately, life as a Libra rising with Lilith is a continuous dance—a harmonious interplay between the longing for unity and the passion for independence. By embracing their complexity and navigating it mindfully, they can create profound connections and live a fulfilling life that honors their unique essence.

[vivididreams]

The Tragedy in Literature

Tragedy in literature, as I see it, is not merely about sorrow or loss, it is a lens through which we, as human beings, confront the inevitable flaws within ourselves and the world around us. It is a paradox of beauty and suffering, where pain becomes a means to reach understanding, and through the tragic fall, we rise with greater awareness of the limitations that define our existence.

Tragedy: The Dance of Hope and Despair

Tragedy, in its most raw and unfiltered form, is the clash between human aspirations and the unforgiving nature of the world. The tragic hero is not simply someone who falls, they are the embodiment of human hope, striving toward greatness or virtue, only to be undone by forces beyond their control. What fascinates me about tragedy is how it forces us to acknowledge a deeper truth: that in our pursuit of perfection, we often confront our imperfections, which are part of what makes us human.

The tragic hero, who seeks greatness, wisdom, or love, often falls because they are bound by their desires, their flaws, or their inability to recognize the limits of their control. This isn’t mere misfortune, it is the natural consequence of human striving. We all long for more, yearn for better, and yet, in our imperfections, we inevitably confront forces that challenge us and reshape our path. Tragedy teaches us that growth often comes through pain, and that our own inner contradictions may hold the key to our evolution.

The Hero’s Flaw: A Mirror of Our Own

In every tragic tale, there is a moment of reckoning,a point where the hero’s flaw becomes too large to ignore. Whether it is pride, ambition, or a misjudgment of their own power, this flaw serves as a reminder that the very qualities that drive us toward greatness can also lead us into the abyss. As a writer, I see this flaw not as a defect, but as an essential part of the hero’s humanity. It is through this imperfection that the character is revealed to us,not as a perfect figure to be admired, but as a mirror of our own struggles, fears, and desires.

This is where I feel tragedy goes beyond simple drama. It is a philosophy of existence. It is the quiet acknowledgment that we, too, are flawed creatures, on a constant journey toward understanding, even if that understanding is forever out of reach. The tragic hero becomes our reflection in a world that challenges us, breaks us, and ultimately remakes us. Through their fall, we see ourselves, not in idealized grandeur, but in our humanity’s truest form.

Fate vs. Free Will: The Tragic Dilemma

One of the most profound aspects of tragedy lies in its exploration of fate versus free will. The tragic hero often finds themselves in a situation where their fate is already sealed, despite their best efforts to alter it. Yet, in the midst of this predetermined outcome, they cling to their free will, making choices that push them closer to their inevitable end. This struggle between fate and free will is something I find endlessly fascinating. It speaks to the heart of the human condition, the desire to carve our own path, even when the road ahead seems predetermined.

For me, tragedy isn't just about the hero's downfall; it’s about the constant dance between our will and the forces that shape us. It’s in this tension, this struggle for control, that we find the true meaning of tragedy. It teaches us that we are both the masters and the victims of our own story, navigating a world that offers no clear answers. And in this ambiguity, we are left with nothing but our own choices and the consequences they bring.

Tragedy and the Human Condition

At its core, tragedy speaks to the heart of the human condition. It tells us that life, in all its beauty, is fraught with loss, suffering, and uncertainty. And yet, this very suffering is where we find meaning. Through the fall of the tragic hero, we are confronted with the reality that life’s greatest lessons often emerge from our darkest moments. It is in our pain, our doubts, and our brokenness that we come to know who we truly are.

As a writer, I view tragedy as a way of revealing the deeper truths of existence. It is a tool for peeling back the layers of our inner world, showing us the contradictions and complexities that make us who we are. Tragedy forces us to look beyond the surface, beyond the idealized notions of success and happiness, and to confront the uncomfortable realities of our existence. In doing so, we are offered a chance to grow, to learn, and to understand the fragility of the human experience.

The Beauty of Tragedy: The Search for Meaning

In the end, tragedy is not something to be feared. It is something to be embraced. It teaches us that beauty can be found in suffering, that meaning can emerge from chaos, and that our imperfections are what make us truly human. The tragic experience is not one of mere loss; it is an invitation to explore the depths of our own souls and to come to terms with the fact that life is, at its core, a beautiful struggle.

In my philosophical perspective, tragedy offers us a profound opportunity for reflection. It reminds us that our greatest strength lies in our ability to confront our flaws, to learn from our mistakes, and to continue on our journey toward understanding,knowing that the journey itself is the answer, even if the destination is never fully within reach.

Tragedy, in literature, is not just about the fall of the hero; it is an exploration of the human spirit in all its complexities and contradictions. It teaches us that life’s greatest lessons are often learned through suffering and that meaning is found not in perfection, but in the journey itself. Through tragedy, we come to understand that our flaws, our struggles, and our ultimate fall are what make us truly human. And in this realization, we find beauty,beauty that is not defined by success, but by the courage to face our own limitations.

[etz-ashashiyot]

I admit, I don’t personally think it’s possible to truthfully combine a worldview that the Torah is divinely inspired, or at least any worldview that involved an all powerful g*d as a source of morality, and slavery.

I don’t really see how an all good all powerful g*d would send plagues to free one people from slavery, but could not even order those people not to keep shaves within their own kingdom

I’m sorry if this comes across as me shitting on your beliefs, evidently you have them so I can’t claim to don’t exist and they’re also very important to you. It simply seems logically inconsistent from my point of view. Although I may also be misinterpreting your point as well.

Hi anon,

Is this in response to this post? If so, I'd ask that you read it again, as that drash explains it far better than I could.

In my experience, Judaism is a very practical religion, with an eye towards elevating the physical by imbuing it with the spiritual. It's why we keep kashrut, it's why we observe the holy rest of Shabbat, it's why we sanctify sex and menstruation through taharat mishpachat. We say brachot over food, but also over sights, pleasant scents, and extraordinary natural events. We even have a bracha for after using the bathroom!

It's a very enbodied, earthy religion.

And because of that, it is typically very pragmatic about how people live and in trying to meet people where they're at, in the society they live in, in the time they live in. That does not mean that this is Hashem's ultimate ideal for us, but rather follows the principle that a middling step that will be followed is superior to an idealistic rule that will be ignored.

See the thing is, we weren't freed just because freedom is good. (Obviously freedom is good and slavery is bad.) Bnei Yisrael were freed specifically in order to become the servants of Hashem and entering into the Covenant of Torah. Their freedom is immediately qualified by the brit.

And the other thing is that we are all given free will. Hashem gives us free will to do what we want. We can make good choices, or bad. We can do good things, or bad things. An oftentimes, what is good and what is bad are less than obvious, and we find ourselves trapped into deciding between two or more bad options, trying to find the least harmful.

If Hashem takes away our free will, sure He could impose upon us a perfect, ideal world.

But that's not what we were made or set up to do. We were given choices and instructed to continuously learn and strive to be better.

So yeah! Yep! The Torah has a lot of things in it that were made for a different society with things we have since learned from and have moved past. We don't stone people to death for violating certain mitzvot. We don't burn adulterers alive. We don't engage the sotah ritual in the case of suspected infidelity. We don't keep slaves, and don't support any model of society that relies on slavery. These are all difficult, painful lessons that we have learned, collectively, over millennia. But they are very human lessons, lessons that we only learnt because we as human beings have the free will to create interpersonal harm and structural inequalities as well as to improve.

People think that just because G-d is all powerful, all-knowing, and all-good that this means Hashem will do all the hard work for us. That G-d will prevent bad things from happening to us good people and deliver divine retribution to bad actors, and are disappointed when it doesn't work like that. It's certainly caused a lot of people to struggle with and even give up their faith. People will ask "where was G-d when— " instead of asking "where was humanity"?

Show me whatever "it" is for you — and lord knows the Jewish people have a small multitude to select from — and I'll show you the ugly and tragic human acts behind it.

"Where was G-d when— " where were you?

[tytarax]

This gave me brutal Luffy and Hancock vibes lol

fem reader

Zamasu gazed out over the peaceful landscapes of the 10th universe from the Sacred World of the Kais. He found solace in the serenity and order he dedicated his existence to maintaining. Beside him stood Y/N, the Destroyer of their universe.

Despite her formidable title and immense power, Y/N had a heart deeply entwined with Zamasu's. They shared a sense of duty and a profound connection that surpassed the usual boundaries between a Supreme Kai and a Destroyer.

Things that shouldn't be allowed

"Zamasu," Y/N spoke softly, "you've been standing here for hours. Are you worried about something?" Zamasu turned, his green skin glistening softly under the light. "Just contemplating the balance we strive to maintain. The universe is at peace, but I cannot shake off the feeling of an approaching storm."

Oh, Zamasu, always so poetical...

Y/N stepped closer, her presence being a comforting shield around Zamasu. "Whatever comes our way, I'll make sure to handle it. You don't have to worry."

Despite being an excellent supreme kai, Y/N was aware of his thoughts toward the mortal races, and the problems that Zamasu's way of thinking could bring.

A few days passed, and a small incident occurred in which Zamasu killed a mortal in self-defense, something that Y/N did not give importance to, however… someone else found out.

The Grand Priest, Daishinkan, summoned Y/N to discuss recent concerns. She arrived at Zeno's Palace, the grand hall echoing with silence as she approached the central dais.

"Y/N, welcome," Daishinkan greeted, his serene demeanor masking the gravity of the situation. "There have been concerns raised about Zamasu's views on mortals."

Y/N knew what he was talking about, still, she asked, "Concerns? With Zamasu?" She continued without letting him answer. "With all due respect, Grand Priest, Zamasu's dedication to maintaining balance in our universe is unparalleled. His concerns about mortals stem from a desire to protect and preserve the cosmos, not to harm."

Daishinkan nodded, but his eyes held a trace of doubt. "While I understand your perspective, Y/N, it is essential to ensure that such thoughts do not lead to actions that could disrupt the harmony we strive to maintain. For example, an incident that took place a few days ago… I'm sure you heard about it."

Y/N's eyes narrowed slightly. "Yes, I heard about it. Zamasu acted in self-defense. The mortal was threatening against him, and Zamasu's actions were necessary to preserve peace."

"Nonetheless," Daishinkan replied, "such incidents can raise concerns about a Supreme Kai's intentions. It is crucial to address these concerns to prevent any potential misunderstandings."

"I assure you, Daishinkan," Y/N started, "his intentions are to uphold the peace and balance of the universe. He has no desire to cause chaos or destruction. Zamasu has my full support and trust. I'm sure we will ensure our universe remains in harmony just as the gods should"

The Grand Priest studied her for a moment before nodding. "Very well. I trust you will keep these concerns in mind and continue to work towards the greater good."

---

"Wait... you're not in trouble because of me, right?" Zamasu asked in a worried tone. Y/N turned to him. "Don't let this bother you. I know your heart, Zamasu. You are dedicated to your duty, and I will always stand by you."

As night fell on the Sacred World of the Kais, Y/N and Zamasu sat together, watching the stars twinkle in the sky. The tranquility of the moment wrapped around them like a warm blanket, a stark contrast to the earlier tension.

"Zamasu," Y/N began, her voice soft and filled with affection, "I want you to know that no matter what happens, I will always protect you. Your ideals and dreams are important to me."

Zamasu turned to face Y/N, his eyes reflecting the starlight. "And I cherish you for that, Lady Y/N..." Y/N leaned in closer, giving the first step knowing Zamasu was a bit shy, and she gave him a peck on the lips. To which he was left in shock and a blushing mess.

Zamasu's heart swelled with emotion. "I... I've been wanting to... to say this for a while now... I really like you... lady Y/N." Y/N giggled at Zamasu's awkward confession, "I love you too, Zamasu."

I think you are my only vulnerability

Masterpost

DBS Masterlist

[balioc]

Holiday Engineering: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

I wasn't actually planning to make a dedicated post about Christmas. In most ways, it isn't a helpful reference point for a would-be holiday engineer. The things that make Christmas really noteworthy, and most of the things that make it really good, are not things that are within your power to replicate.

But, judging by the notes on my last Holiday Engineering post, it seems clear that my take on Christmas is a thing that is worth discussing and explaining. And, moreover, this is probably a fine pretext for some discussion of what it means for a holiday to be good or bad.

To start with: no holiday is for everyone. No thing is for everyone. No matter what kind of festival you make, a lot of people are going to be annoyed by it, and a lot more people are going to be pretty indifferent.

That basic truth has a number of ramifications. One of them is that -- as with any other kind of design -- when you're thinking about holiday design in abstract conceptual terms, it behooves you to distance yourself from your own preferences and passions at least a little bit. The best thing for you isn't necessarily the best thing in general, and vice versa. It's important to be able to understand when your own idiosyncrasies are pulling you away from good craftsmanship.

I have a strong antipathy towards Halloween, for Reasons. But I have enough perspective to be aware that those Reasons aren't going to be relevant to most other people, no matter how important they seem to me; and, in fact, I believe that Halloween is generally a very well-constructed festival in an "objective" sense.

Whatever else you want to say: there are definitely a lot of people who really don't like Christmas. And it's worth talking about why that is, because some of those reasons are widespread, and they matter. But that, in itself, is not an indication of bad design or low-quality content.

So, without further ado: I believe that the modern Western instantiation of Christmas is probably the greatest holiday of all time.

The core of the holiday's excellence is its theme. The short and simple version of that theme is peace on earth and goodwill towards men, which is -- pretty much the best possible theme that a holiday can have, A+, no notes. It is a high ideal of human living, so obvious that anyone short of a Spartiate can appreciate its value, rendered so straightforward that a tiny child can understand it. But in fact the situation is more complex than that, because Christmas is a complicated holiday, and it's worth digging a bit deeper.

Christmas is, in theory, God's birthday. Which is to say, it is a festival celebrating the entrance of the sacred into a profane world. It is something more than the commemoration of a mystery or a miracle; it is a commemoration of the fact that we get to have mysteries and miracles. And so the essential nature of the holiday is a fully-general "this is the special-time and the sacred-time," but that thing isn't just a bare assertion, it's fully rooted in the myth. The holiday spirit of Christmas is the spirit of everything that humans really think a holiday ought to be, put in a blender. Which tends to work out to something like, well, light and love and joy, letting our worldly strivings and animosities fade away in the face of the celebration, peace on earth and goodwill towards men. Christmas truces can develop spontaneously because Christmas is the festival, the moment at which it becomes powerfully obvious that there is something more powerful and more profound than whatever-you're-fighting-over-this-week.

And, crucially, this is framed in a deeply universal way. At its deepest roots, Christmas is all about Jesus, which just by itself raises a lot of hackles in certain quarters...but who is the Jesus of Christmas? He's not arguing with Pharisees or cursing fig trees or talking about how he came to bring the sword. He's not even tending to the poor, or dying horribly for your sins. He is a baby. The cult figure of the festival has no agenda, no politics or judgments, only wonder and potential and promise. The miracle of the season is often described as "a child is born," which is the most universal kind of celebratory event known to humanity.

----------

At this stage of its development, Christmas-as-she-is-practiced is really three almost-distinct holidays, each with its own vibe and its own canon of traditions.

Christmas A is the religious festival celebrating the birth of Christ, the one with the angels and the magi and the Latin. Christmas B is the not-necessarily-godly-but-solemn-and-sacred festival of peace and togetherness -- the Christmas of A Christmas Carol and "Good King Wenceslaus," the Christmas of fetishized family dinners. Christmas C is the tinsel-y consumerist holiday, the one that's all about how winter is fun and magical, with "Frosty the Snowman" for the kids and "Santa Baby" for the grownups and big holiday-sales displays for everyone.

(Crucially: Christmas C is still a real holiday, even just taken on its own terms, and has its own sacred narratives etc. Often these are weirdly romantic, but, well, at least in America, courtship is more sacred than pretty much anything else. See: appx. one hojillion Hallmark Channel movies.)

(There are also some more-minor quasi-independent holidays kicking around in there, like the remnant pagan stuff that you see in "The Holly and the Ivy." These are outside the scope of this discussion, but, y'know, they're interesting.)

This weird structure gives Christmas a lot of flexibility, because these three pseudo-holidays are capable of functioning more-or-less independently, but each of them is strongly connected to the others and therefore capable of providing reinforcement. If you don't want Christmas to be about Jesus, then fine, forget about him, there's still a practically-infinite amount of Christmas in which you can participate. But if you do want Christmas to be about Jesus, then your celebration of the nativity borrows sparkle and mojo from both Charles Dickens and the Coca-Cola Corporation. I myself have a strong dislike for the tinsel-y kind of celebration, for "Jingle Bells" and "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" etc. -- but not only am I capable of enjoying Christmas A and Christmas B, I am capable of enjoying a world made Christmassy in large part by people who are doing the Christmas C thing, and their celebrations are constantly shading into the things that I like more.

----------

Relatedly: Christmas is one of the vanishingly-few modern holidays that is capable of feeling like a festival in the old sense, in a more-than-tiny-and-localized context. By which I mean that it consumes and alters the entire world. It's not just a thing you might choose to do, it is a thing that is happening around you, it is a season of the world. It feels real, to me and to many, in a way that most lesser holidays don't, because it pervades.

----------

...and we haven't even yet touched on the actual-factual nature of Christmas's power, which is just pure snowball effect: because Christmas is what it is, because it is the biggest and most important holiday, it is constantly becoming more that thing as ever more people add to it.

I said in my last Holiday Engineering post that Chanukah had two decent songs. You could possibly talk me into raising that number to five, maybe even ten if you're willing to accept some real deep cuts. Christmas has amazing songs, and it has so fucking many of them, because "writing new Christmas bangers" is a thing that medieval monks did and it's a thing that top-shelf musical geniuses are still doing today. You can fill days' worth of soundtrack with excellent Christmas music even if all you like is sacred stuff in Latin, and the same thing is true if you hate sacred stuff in Latin but you love Mariah Carey and Taylor Swift.

"Classic Christmas movie" is a genre, and not a small one. Practically every noteworthy long-running TV show made in the West has done a Christmas thing at some point, and many of them have done Christmas things every season.

Christmas is not particularly a sweets holiday, but nonetheless there are a million Christmas candies and Christmas cookies etc., because 'tis the season and it's worth randomly doing that thing, in a way that it is not worth randomly doing that thing for any lesser festival.

Even myths and rituals accrue in this way. Eight flying reindeer with cutesy names? Awesome, that poem was cool, let's make that canon. A ninth reindeer with a light-up red nose? The kids will love it. Krampus? Sure, why not, let's (twist the Alpine tradition a bit and) give Santa an evil opponent in the form of a goat demon with a taste for kidnapping.

And all of these things provide foundation for future ones.

----------

(I am not going to spend a lot of time listing high-quality Christmas foods and drinks, explaining why Santa Claus is a punchy and compelling bit of myth, etc. I think you can probably construct those points on your own.)

(...I suppose I will take the time to point out, briefly, that in additional to everything else, Christmas has so many good and distinctive symbols. The manger scene, the magi on their camels, the Christmas tree, Santa in his sleigh, the wreath, the wrapped gift box, the colors red and green...)

----------

It is true, of course, that Christmas is a family holiday. And that alone is enough to ensure that many people, especially around these parts, despise it.

There is, of course, a version of Christmas suitable for wholly-independent adults. Which matters. You can have a very Christmassy Christmas, full of lights and festival music and gifts and myth, celebrated entirely in the company of your peers. But, yeah, the world kinda expects you to Go Home (if your family celebrates Christmas) and you'll have to deal with various kinds of trouble if you choose not to do that.

I refuse to deduct points for that. It is not inherently bad to be a family holiday; in the end, holidays are probably more important for kids than for anyone else; if for some diabolical reason I had to choose between having only family holidays and having only independent-adult holidays, I'd choose the former, even though I personally enjoy the latter more most of the time. The fact that you don't like spending time with your family is not a knock on the holiday, any more than your being allergic to cheese is a knock on cheese.

----------

It is also true that Christmas is kind of inescapable. As I said above, it pervades. Which means that, if you don't like it, you still have to deal with it quite a lot, and that's probably going to make you like it even less.

I don't blame anyone for feeling that way. But, like, that is inherently an outgrowth of the holiday's success and popularity.

Being popular doesn't necessarily mean that something is good. You can even be legitimately annoyed that something is over-popular or overhyped. In the end, however, anything is going to cater to the people who love it and not to the people who hate it, especially if catering to the people who hate it primarily means "existing less." This is double-plus true for a holiday, where (as discussed above), being really widespread and close-to-universally-adopted provides a power and a value all its own.

[george-oswald-dannyson]

A Letter to All Players from Bluepoch

In recent days, multiple controversy-related incidents involving employee conduct have occurred both within and outside Bluepoch. These include cases where employees, without authorization, leaked unreleased content to players, causing the company to suffer losses in content assets. Some employees also posted internal photos on social media and exaggerated their roles and authority, leading to public backlash and negative discourse. These incidents have not only damaged our company’s reputation but, more importantly, betrayed the trust and expectations of our users toward us and our title Reverse: 1999. We feel deeply responsible and heartbroken over this and would like to extend our sincerest apologies to all users.

1. Reflections and Corrective Measures The above-mentioned violations have breached the rules and policies laid out in our employee handbook. The individuals involved will face strict internal disciplinary action. At the same time, we will enhance our information security protocols, reinforce confidentiality over project materials, strengthen internal regulations concerning employee social media usage, clearly define boundaries for public statements, and strictly forbid any false claims regarding one’s role or status within the company.

We acknowledge that personal views or preferences expressed by employees before joining Bluepoch, provided they do not violate public order and good morals, should not be taken as representative of the company’s stance or the employee’s current views. Nonetheless, we are aware that certain past statements made by employees have hurt our users, and for this, we sincerely apologize. We firmly believe that creators must respect the content and understand the team’s values in order to produce their best work.

This incident has exposed weaknesses in our internal management and gaps in staff training. Going forward, we will continue optimizing our training system, implement evaluations around company values, and deepen employees’ understanding of the company and project’s creative tone. We hope every member of our team will truly understand and embrace the creative philosophy of Bluepoch and Reverse: 1999.

2. Creative Principles and Team Mission

Bluepoch is committed to content-driven creation and strives to become a benchmark company for narrative games. We remain dedicated to infusing every piece of work with the passion and expectations of our users. We understand that the unique tone of Reverse: 1999 stems from our relentless pursuit of retro aesthetics, literary storytelling, and cinematic expression. The vibrant discussions about the Storm Era’s worldbuilding and the genuine love users have for the characters continue to nourish our creative process. For this, we offer heartfelt thanks to every user who has accompanied 1999 on its journey.

We have closely followed recent user feedback across various platforms and will continue to uphold the following principles in our content creation:

— No “personal agendas” or individual biases: All creative content within the team undergoes multi-level review to ensure it serves the worldbuilding, story, and character development. Personal preferences will never be allowed to distort the project’s tone.

— Openness and growth together: We welcome creators who hold ideals and passion. In our recruitment process, the core criteria is alignment with the company’s creative philosophy and shared commitment to our project’s vision.

At Bluepoch, we will always treat every story and every line of dialogue with sincerity. The tone and direction of Reverse: 1999 will continue to be overseen by our lead creatives—Hitako, Factory Head, Guest Cat, and others. We believe that only through a shared faith in our content can we remain true to our mission in a changing market. Thank you, Timekeepers, for your supervision and understanding—let us walk together and protect this journey that never ends.

Bluepoch

May 6, 2025

[luvtonique]

I get to have one (1) unpopular opinion every year so here's 2025.

Unpopular Opinion: I think telling every single person on earth that they can be just as good an artist as you or as the greats if they just practice is counterproductive and inconsiderate of a person's time on this earth.

I think not everyone is cut out to do everything, especially art.

There's so much more that goes into art than just "drawing picture and make it look good"

There's form, style, color theory, anatomy (optional), proportions, there's tons of math involved, having an eye for it, creativity in poses, visualizing your thoughts, etc. etc. etc.

And then on top of that there's finding an audience, marketing your art properly, advertising it.

Like, I hate to say this but I've been following artists on FurAffinity for like 15+ years and some of them literally have not improved a single bit over all that time and still draw exactly the same. I've shown a few examples to my friends to prove my point. And these are artists who have a gallery of like 38,000+ pictures over that time, they've practiced way more than I have, and where you can see very obvious improvement with me, you just can't with them.

I think pretending everyone is created perfectly equal with the same ability to utilize that IQ is incredibly harmful to people.

If you fill people with false hope that they can do anything they put their mind to, they'll fall short and it'll be soul crushing and lead to anger and frustration and could cause them to lash out.

I'm sorry to say this, but, we're not all equal. We never will be. Every single individual human has a randomly chosen set of traits, skills, abilities, tastes, opinions, IQ, ability to reason, mathematical aptitude, etc.

We're not all the same. We never will be. And expecting people to be the same or telling people that they're the same is harmful.

"A puzzle with no pieces, yet we scramble to construct the set The play is starring everyone, in all inclusion we are none A cavalcade of nondescript imaginary mannequins To pose in all their brilliance, showcasing insignificance Ideals that we wish we are, but reaching goals is just too far Inaction is our greatest flaw, achievements are condemned by law The strong must be ruled by the weak The prophets turn the other cheek A purgatory of progress, unique as we all coalesce" -Darklight (Lyrics by me)

In our striving for equality we snuff out one another's ability to shine and be greater than others. This obsession with creating all-inclusive and all-equal society that enforces the lowest common denominator as the bar for excellence and shuns those who shine brighter than others as "egotistical" or "prejudiced" or "ableist" or whatever other new word will come along to express negativity towards those who outshine us just forces us to remain in a stagnant and ungrowing purgatory that will never advance.

So, my opinion summed up is: I don't think people are equal. There are people less capable of becoming artists than me, and there are people far more talented as artists than me. And that's just how life is. I will never be able to do stunt driving, I'll never be able to skydive, I'll never be able to scuba dive, I'll never be able to go to space, I'll never be able to serve in active military duty or even fire a gun, I'll never be able to bake one of those fancy cakes like on Great British Bake Off, I'll never be a chef at a 5-star restaurant, I'll never be able to manage the books to run a coin operated laundry establishment, I'll never be able to build a computer, I'll never be able to do metalwork, I'll never be able to fly a plane: And yet there are people in the world who can, and they can and should be proud in knowing that they do something that I and many other people can't do.

S'just my opinion, but, I really do think telling everyone they can "do anything" or "be whatever they want" harms them. It's a lie. They can't do anything, and they can't be whatever they want. You should find out what their talents are, help them realize them, and help them live a fulfilling life nurturing that talent, rather than encouraging them to follow a meaningless dream that will leave them frustrated when they waste 20 years of their life trying to improve and wind up quitting and feeling like they wasted two decades.

Cutie marks existed for a reason, man.

[valbellepeche]

The Beginning, the End, and Everything in Between - A Xenoblade Future Redeemed narrative analysis

Spoilers for Xenoblade 1, 2, and 3

Alpha is the primary source of conflict in Future Redeemed. Understanding him is key to understanding the narrative as a whole. Alpha exists because Ontos's communication with Logos and Pneuma was cut off. In the context of Xenoblade 3, Pneuma represents hope for the future and is associated with the Ouroboros power, and Logos represents fear of the future and is associated with Moebius. Without these, Alvis loses his humanity and is left as "a heartless machine." Additionally, Logos and Pneuma are established as being specifically masculine and feminine, respectively. This could be interpreted as being representative of anima and animus as a callback to past Xeno games while also fitting the theme of different parts of a person being needed to form a complete whole. A was only freed from Ontos when Ouroboros and Moebius clashed during the attack on the City, which grants access to the human part of Ontos. A acts as a guiding figure for the world and for Matthew specifically, leading him on the right path, but letting him come to his own conclusions and make his own decisions, much like Alvis did with Shulk in Xenoblade 1.

Alpha's goal is to create a new world for the City people, disregarding all other life. This "olden life" he speaks about could be thought of as an allegory for the elderly who do not contribute labor and are deemed unnecessary because of it. What I find more compelling is seeing them as the homeless, who are labeled as criminals and leeches of society are constantly dehumanized because of it, or as any marginalized group that is wrongfully considered a threat to society. Regardless of interpretation, the meaning is the same. Alpha does not believe in the sanctity of life and wishes to remove these "undesirables" who do not contribute to his ideal. You could see his desire to remove them as a form of eugenics. This kind of dangerous idealogy seeks to prey on people discontent with the way things are by giving them a group to blame all the world's problems on, which in actuality are symptoms of the systems that exist to uphold those in power.

Na'el is struggling with loss, and Alpha takes advantage of this by presenting her with a false ideal reality. Essentially, "If you get rid of these people, there will be no suffering." Such a belief can only lead to conflict and destruction. This is shown through the memory of the original world, which ended up destroyed in response to a civil rights dispute. The specific use of an American suburb brings to mind the American dream, telling people the ideal life they should strive for and that those who cannot achieve this do not deserve it. Alpha also attempts to emotionally manipulate Matthew, both through Na'el (also seen with Ghondor,) and when he latches onto Matthew's own doubts. Alpha's design shows the idea of using utopian ideals to hide sinister motives by having him take the form of Alvis, who represented the Gnostic Monad in Xenoblade 1, while having traits of and acting similarly to Zanza, the demiurge. A having one of Zanza's wings then would be because humans were created by the demiurge and retain its inherent quality of being flawed.

Under this reading, Shulk, Rex, and the Liberators would be people who are well off but sympathetic and charitable towards those in need. This role is emphasized by using characters from previous games who we've already seen fight for others. It is through their knowledge, strength, and kindness that rescued soldiers are able to find meaning in life.

In the final confrontation with Alpha, he is only defeated once Logos and Pneuma are reunited. It is their reunification that creates a complete whole, accepting opposing parts both within an individual and within society. Only when this is achieved can we create a better future for us all. That future may not come to be in our lifetime, but the more people who strive to achieve it now and in the future, the closer it becomes.

I'd be remiss not to mention the metanarrative at play. The idea that you should respect what came before you comes up a lot in Future Redeemed, and the many references to past Xeno games coincide with this. Said references do not exist as mere fan service but also serve to inform on the present and future of the series. Using certain names or design motifs tells you that something is similar to what it's referencing, which provides greater insight into things like Alpha's role in the story or what the world was like on Earth pre-experiment.

That's all I have to say. I'm very passionate about this series, and I hope I can share that with those who feel the same. Thank you for reading 🩷