#what’s important is recognizing that fact being conscious of it and when the time comes take accountability and work to fix the mistake/

[breezeblock-lemonade]

i really wish more people understood/accepted the concept of Unlearning Behavior.

like yeah, maybe you Do do that thing described in that post that is harmful. what if- instead of beating yourself up about it or publicly doubling down because you feel the need to defend yourself when literally nobody would’ve known you do that behavior otherwise- you looked Deeper into that behavior, Why you do it, Why it’s Bad, and then thought about what you could do to Stop doing it? crazy concept, i know!

literally so much of online discourse could be solved by this.

[thagomizersshow]

Apes are a kind of monkey, and that's ok

This is a pet peeve of mine in sci comm ESPECIALLY because many well respected scientific institutions are insistent about apes and monkeys being separate things, despite how it's been established for nearly a century that apes are just a specific kind of monkey.

Nearly every zoo I've visited that houses apes has a sign somewhere like the one below that explains the supposed distinction between the two groups, focusing on anatomy instead of phylogeny.

(Every time I see a graphic like this I age ten years) Movies even do this, especially when they want to sound credible. Take this scene from Rise of the Planet of the Apes:

This guy Franklin is presented as the authority on apes in this scene, and he treats James Franco calling a chimpanzee a monkey like it's insulting.

But when you actually look at a primate family tree, you can see that apes are on the same branch as Old World monkeys, while New World monkeys branched off much earlier.

(I'm assuming bushbabies are included as "lorises" here?)

To put it simply, that means you and I are more closely related to a baboon than a baboon is to a capuchin.

Either the definition of monkey includes apes OR we can keep using an anatomical definition and Barbary macaques get to be an ape because they're tailless.

"I've got no tails on me!"

SO

Why did all this happen? Why did we start insisting apes are monkeys, especially considering the two words were pretty much interchangeable for centuries? Well I've got one word for ya...

This the attitude that puts humans on a pedestal over other life on Earth. That there are intrinsically important features of humanity, and other living things are simply stepping stones in that direction.

At the dawn of evolutionary study, anthropocentrism was enforced by using a model called evolutionary grades. And boy howdy do I hate evolutionary grades.

Basically, a grade is a way of defining a group of animals by using anatomical "complexity". It's the idea that evolution has milestones of importance that, once reached, makes an organism into a new kind of thing. You can almost think of it like evolutionary levels. An animal "levels up" once it gains a certain trait deemed "complex".

You can probably see the issue here; that complexity is an ephemeral idea defined through subjectivity, rather than based off anything truly observable. What makes walking on 2 legs more complex than walking on four? How are tails less complex than no tails? "Complexity" in this context is unmeasurable, therefore it is unscientific. That's why evolutionary grades suck and I never want to look at one.

For primates, this meant once some of them lost their tails, grew bigger brains, and started brachiating instead of leaping, they simply "leveled up" and became apes. Despite the early recognition that apes were simply a branch of the Old World monkey family tree (1785!), the idea of grades took precedent over the phylogenetic link.

In the early years of primatology, humans were even seen as a grade "above" apes, related but separated by our upright stance and supposed far greater intelligence (this was before other apes were recognized tool users).

It wasn't until the goddamn 1970s that it was recognized all great apes should be included in the clade Hominidae alongside humanity. This was a major shift in thinking, and required not just science, but the public, to recognize just how close we are to other living species. It seems like this change has, thankfully, happened and most institutions and science respecting folks have accepted this fact. Those who don't accept it tend to have a lot more issues with science than only accepting humans as apes.

And now, we come to the current problem. Why is there a persistent idea that monkeys and apes are separate?

I want to make it clear I don't believe there was a conscious movement at play here. I think there's a lot of things going on, but there isn't some anti-monkey lobby that is hiding the truth. I think the problem is more complicated and deals with how human brains and human culture often struggle to do too many changes at once.

Now, I haven't seen any studies on this topic, so everything I say going forward is based on my own experience of how people react to learning apes (and therefore, humans) are monkeys.

First off, there is a lot of mental rearranging you have to do to accept humans as monkeys. First you, gotta accept humans as apes, then you have to stop thinking in grades and look at the family tree. Then you have to accept that apes are on the Old World monkey branch, separate from the New World monkeys.

That's a lot of steps, and I've seen science-minded zoo educators struggle with that much mental rearranging. And even while they accept this to an extent, they often find it even harder to communicate these ideas to the public.

I think this is a big reason why zoos and museums often push this idea the hardest. Convincing the public humans are apes is already a challenge, teaching them that all apes are monkeys at the same time might seem impossible.

I believe the other big reason people cling to the "apes-aren't-monkeys" idea is that it still allows for that extra bit of comforting anthropocentrism. Think of it this way; anthropocentrism puts humans on a pedestal. When you learn that humans are apes, you can either remove the pedestal and place humans with other animals, OR, you can place the apes up on the pedestal with humanity. For those that have an anthropocentric worldview, it can actually be easier to "uplift" the apes than ditch the pedestal.

Too make things worse, monkeys are such a symbol of a "primitive" animal nature that many can't accept raising them to the "level" of humanity, but removing the pedestal altogether is equally painful. So they hold tight to an outdated idea despite all the evidence. This is why there's often offense taken when an ape is called a monkey. It's tantamount to someone calling you a monkey, and that's too much of a challenge to anthropocentrism.

Personally, I think recognizing myself as a monkey is wonderful. Non-ape monkeys are as "complex" as any ape. They make tools, they have dynamic social groups, they're adapted to a wide range of environments, AND they have the best hair of all primates.

I think we should be honored to be considered one of them.

[aida-sparks]

Eddie liked Buck from the start, but where are we now?

I've convinced myself that Eddie liked Buck from the very beginning - but only subconsciously. I mean, look at how he's watching Buck in 2x01, even as Buck is being bratty as they work out.

Even though Buck has been anything but kind to him up to this point, Eddie's more miffed than angered by it. Maybe a little disappointed too.

We all know by the end of 2x01, Eddie wins Buck over, and they both quasi promise to have each other's back. And then the rest of their story so far has many important and telling moments, but what if we fast forward to season 6 episode 15 and that loaded graveyard scene? Is this scene the moment where Eddie Diaz finally *consciously* realizes that his feelings for Buck are not only platonic? It was such a layered scene. Of course, there is Eddie's shellshocked reaction to Buck's proclamation that Natalia, the death doula who he just met, really sees him (bites lip in agitation), but beyond that...

It's clear that Eddie goes on to have a profound revelation after Buck says that. But what does it mean?!

He tells Buck, "You haven't been the same since it happened. But how could you be?" as he turns away and processes something internally. Perhaps something about himself as well. Eddie actually looks a little startled. A few seconds later, he reassures Buck that he doesn't have to be anyone for anybody and that experiences like this change them. He goes on to ask Buck what changed in him. I think the moment Eddie admits Buck hasn't been the same, he realizes that he has changed too. Exactly how is not made clear. Even Buck's own response to Eddie's question is vague (he says he feels like he cheated death). How did Eddie change? How did Buck change? The writers don't commit Buck and Eddie's feelings clearly in dialogue, so fans are forced to speculate, and it's why the general audience members, who don't rewatch scenes and lean in hard to the characters, think us buddie shippers are clowning half the time. *deep sigh*

But being left to my own speculation, I do think Eddie's revelation here is at least partly related to Buck. He looked disappointed when he learned Buck was starting something with Natalia. He looked hurt when Buck said she "sees him" -- and maybe those reactions surprised something in Eddie. I don't think the man he was raised to be would have recognized those feelings; he wouldn't have admitted to feeling them on a conscious level. But of course, that's why "change" is a theme in this scene and Eddie has looks like he's putting 2 and 2 together. Part of me feels Eddie was in touch with his feelings for Buck well before this episode, but then I don't know how else to interpret what the graveyard scene was meant to be if not Eddie coming to terms with the fact that he may be in love with his best friend, even as said best friend proclaims he has a new love interest in the picture. This take could set up Eddie secretly pining over Buck in season 7 quite well, though. Oh, my angst-ridden heart. I'd love to read others' thoughts on this! I'm glad I joined tumblr to read all the buddie and 9-1-1 meta out there. Forgive me if it looks like I don't know what I'm doing. I don't. I'm still new around here.

[takenbypeter]

Hi! I was wondering if you’d be able to do a Willy Wonka who falls in love at first sight with the shy daughter of the chief of police? With Willy being so eccentric I’d love to see how their relationship would work out! Maybe she saves them from the chocolate cartel? Or in the vat of chocolate at the church? It’s up to you

I hope your having a wonderful day 🫶🏻

Being More Courageous

Willy Wonka x reader

Words: 3520

First off i do apologize cause this turned into less shy reader and more, self-conscious reader idk, this fic kind of drove me crazy cause long fics ALWAYS drive me crazy

The chief of police.

Your dad.

While some might find that job to be respectable, in your eyes it was just like any other job. Except recently your father has been coming home with more and more chocolate which is slightly concerning considering how addicted the man was to it. Nonetheless, he was your father and no matter how embarrassing he was those were the facts.

Now because your father was the chief of police, of course that meant sometimes he was needed on duty unexpectedly. And this was one of those times.

He was driving along with you after picking you up from a late evening out, (in his uniform as always), when he got an unexpected call. You didn’t catch much of the conversation, but all you knew was that it sounded important.

“We have to make a pit stop,” he said once, ending the phone call. Putting on his sirens and driving to a nearby location he stops, parking the car a short distance from a pop up cart.

Although the cart seemed small there was quite a crowd growing around it.

Of course however, once your father strolls up, the crowd disperses and your father begins to discuss with whom you can only presume to be the owner.

You watch the two exchange words, before another familiar officer, Officer Affable, pulls up as well.

Sitting there in that car, with nothing else to do, you can’t help but observe the boy.

The owner looked young. Possibly your age.

He was dressed in a shabby mulberry jacket, and a strange patterned scarf. On his head was placed a worn hat, but underneath that lay bouncy dark curls.

Despite his flavorful fashion, he still appeared well kept and the more you continued to keep your eyes on him, the more you began to recognize how attractive the boy was.

It seemed like he could sense your gaze that was stuck on him because in the next moment, his eyes shifted past your father while they landed on you.

At the sudden contact your flight, fright, or freeze kicked in, and you did the last unable to look away.

In that moment everything else disappeared.

No sounds could be heard, nothing else could be spotted, all your focus was on him.

Still warped in, you watch as the boy slowly raises a hand and his fingers move in a daze like wave, and feeling compelled to do so, you waved back.

It was an odd feeling for you. Most people didn’t pay you much mind. But this? This felt different.

You father, readjusting his attention from Affable to the owner, noticing how disconnected he seemed. Once following his gaze and noticing that it was on you, your father snapped his fingers in front of the boy’s face causing the connection to ultimately break.

You watched your father’s hands thrash about, clearly upset, as he made gestures that looked threatening. You observed from your seat as your father aggressively pointed a finger at the man, then at you, before saying one final thing and making his return back to the vehicle.

Curious, you question, “what was that about?”

“Just some chocolatier wannabe causing trouble.”

Your father turns on the car and begins the journey back home.

“Chocolatier?”

“Yeah, calls himself Willy Wonka.”

“…Willy Wonka,” you repeat, taking a quick glance through the side view mirror. Your father continues on about who knows what, because honestly it all just sounds like background noise to you at this point. All you can think about right now is the chocolatier called Willy Wonka.

After that you genuinely didn’t believe you were going to see the man again. Of course you wanted to, but after the warning your dad had given him, you figured he scared him off, that was until two days later when you were in town.

You were taking a stroll, when you spotted a crowd much like the other day. Suddenly growing nervous at even the possibility of spotting the boy you couldn’t help but gnaw on your bottom lip. Would he recognize you? No, tht’d be ridiculous. But, overcoming the nerves and doubt you mustered the courage to at least watch from the back.

Making your way over and taking your place as just another face in the sea of peoplem you watched as he spoke with customers exchanging his goods for their sovereigns. His eyes glanced around to take the next customer but his eyes stopped on you and once again there was an odd connection between you two just as before.

He quickly looked down, grabbing something you couldn’t exactly see. “Listen one and listen all,” he recited, gaining more attention, “for a new chocolate has gained my all.” He scanned the crowd. “It’s candy made to make your wildest dreams come true. So say, you’ll do?” He stopped, his hand open towards you.

You glance around making sure you’re not being misled as it takes you a moment to realize you’ve been chosen. “Me?”

“Yes. You with the lovely eyes and the beautiful smile.”

Oh god, you did not like this.

Being the center of attention, having everyone’s eyes on you. But pushing forward you move to reach out for the candy…when a loud whistle interrupts your actions. And of course that was your dad along with other officers.

Willy Wonka gives you a short wink, “till next time,” he says before hurriedly closing his shop.

With one final wave he runs off down an alleyway with his pursuers on his tail. The crowd separates returning to their own lives and you notice something interesting.

Someone wheeling Willy Wonka’s shop away. Not in a stealing sort of way, not in a hurried manner, but in a calm sort of setting. And curiosity gaining the best of you, you go after them.

Keeping a safe distance you follow all the way to an unfamiliar location. With a close eye on the presumably worker, you watch as they bend down and lift up a sewer lid.

Legs now moving before your brain you take slow and quiet steps, no longer hidden as you near the whole situation.

After a moment you hear a grunting noise and the same Willy Wonka pops out from underneath. Your jaw drops beginning to put the pieces together. Feet still moving forward, you watch in shock as he places his arms on both sides of the ground. Just as he pushes himself out…crackle. The snow you’ve stepped on suddenly cracked under your foot, revealing your location. Curse Mother Nature who betrayed you at this moment.

You let out a tiny, “eep!” Your shoulders are hiking, now frozen once again while the two pairs of eyes turn to you.

You don’t know what to say, you don’t know what to do, you’re just still, hopin your invisibility skills kick in. But, of course it doesn’t and Willy Wonka’s shocked face eases into one of recognition.

He turns to his partner in crime and says something you’re unable to hear but she nods, packing up the cart and leaving. Willy Wonka makes his way towards you, “I know you.”

You stand, still shocked about the whole situation as your eyes follow his movements that appear curious. He tilts his head at the lack of response, “cat got your tongue?” He asks in a genuine voice.

Snapping yourself out of it you speak, “no I’m just…surprised you remember me.”

He smiles, causing your eyes to avoid his, “of course I remember you, lovely eyes, beautiful smile…it would be hard to forget.”

Your breath hitches for a moment before you relay a nervous smile with a wave of your hand brushing off his words. Motioning to move past but he doesn’t.

“Don’t be so modest, it’s true.”

And at the continuation of his words you laugh, truly unable to hold eye contact with the boy.

“So you followed us here—although I’m delighted you did so, I’m curious what for?” He asks and you look up to see him waiting for an explanation, “are you here to rat us out? Give away our location?”

He walks up with each interrogating question while your face contours upset that he would think that way of you. To be fair though, he didn't know anything about you so the thought was valid. Wanting to say something, anything to deny the accusations you blurt, “no, of course not! I just—I didn’t get to try your chocolate.”

He makes a small ‘oh’ noise before returning to his cart, which wasn’t too far away, and once finding it he returns with the said item. Taking a bite of the chocolate, it’s easily noticeable that the rich flavoring is unlike anything you’ve ever tasted. Still with the chocolate spreading along your taste buds you ask him, “is it true you have a dessert that really helps with being bold?”

“Of course!” He confirms enthusiastically before taking a thought on it, “but what would you need that for?”

What don’t I need it for? You think to yourself recalling the many accounts you wished you had boldness. You didn’t mind being shy and too yourself, but there were always some moments you wished you did things differently.

Instead of dropping that whole bomb on the poor man, you give him a smaller, less important reason. “I don’t know…I hear you go on loads of adventures for your chocolate, that requires boldness and confidence. I wish I could do that. My days are fairly routine.”

“Let’s change that,” he leans close a little closer than you expected, “what is something you’ve always wanted to try?”

Now, you’ve thought of things you’ve wanted to try before but of course, now that someone was asking, nothing came to mind. Well, that plus the fact you couldn’t think all too straight with the short distance that was between you two.

“I don’t know.”

He leans back and you breathe out some air you unconsciously were holding in.

“There has to be something!” He encourages, waiting for an answer. At his ushering and one more, “come on,” from him you finally come up with an answer.

“Okay, okay,. I guess I’ve always wanted to sneak into a place after closing.”

“A place?”

“Yeah, a place. Anywhere, as long as it’s after hours.”

He grins at you mischievously, “easy, peasy.” Willy Wonka reaches down taking your hand and tugging you behind him as he begins to guide you through the streets.

“Wha—Right now?”

He doesn’t reply.

“Willy!”

“Adventure is spontaneous!”

He had a point there. Curious to where he would take you, you caved choosing to follow the boy.

He led you to the town library, a place you were very familiar with.

“Willy how are we going to get in?”

He turns around shaking his head, “that’s for me to worry about. You wait here,” he instructs running to the side of the building disappearing around the corner.

With him gone, it gave you a moment to think for yourself, breaking and entering. Was this really what you wanted to do? It did seem fun but what of the consequences? Was it worth it?

The door handle shifted bringing your attention back to the present before it opened revealing Willy on the other side, “come in.”

You do as told and once inside the nostalgia hits. Now, as mentioned before you’ve visited this library many times, back when you were a child, but it has been awhile.

Your hands brushed some books as you glanced around taking the air in. You didn’t realize how much you missed it. “Hey!” Shouted Willy calling you over. You spent the next hours stacking books, reading them, and acting them out, eventually building a small fort with the few blankets in the lounge area as you read out loud from a child’s book you used to read often.

Once finished you notice him on his back staring up at the ceiling and you lay down mirroring his position.

“You amaze me Willy.” You say comfortably.

“Oh?”

“There’s nothing you can’t do, frankly it both amazes me and annoys me,” you joke.

He lets out a single laugh of his own, “well, that’s not true.”

“Sure seems that way, you’re not afraid of anything or anyone.”

You both stare up in silence, at the blank canvas of the white ceiling.

“I can’t read.”

It takes you a moment to process this new information, and when you do, you sit up, body shifted towards him. “You can’t read?”

He shakes his head with a thin smile.

Instead of prodding which is what your initial response is, you lay back, “that’s alright. Makes me like you more knowing you have a flaw.”

He laughs, the light-hearted sound echoing in the room.

“Well then maybe I should list off some more of my flaws.”

You can feel your cheeks warm a little by his phrasing before you remind yourself to relax, as he’s just teasing. Luckily you don’t have to think of it too much because he brings up another statement, “you did this without the help of my Giraffe Milk Macaroon, and you claim to have no boldness in you.”

“Well yeah this is different.”

“How so? What’s holding you back?”

“Fear,” you answer having thought about this question multiple times.

“Fear? What are you afraid of?”

“People. Saying the wrong thing, being in someone’s way.”

“Hmm,” You hear from beside you, “I don’t think my macarons will help you there. Their effect helps in certain situations, not for a lifetime.”

You let out a little sigh, knowing no magical delicacy is going to fix your feelings.

“But, maybe with the right people, you can gain that desired courage.”

“…Maybe.”

You both spend your time well into the night before Willy has to return and together you return the books back to their rightful places and leave.

Willy walks you close to your residence before saying your goodbyes.

And that night you returned home feeling well, feeling both confident and happy about your decisions.

You were happy.

The next time you end up meeting Willy it’s a casual run in at the fountain. Honesty you were surprised in running into the boy not expecting to see him out and about so late. However, here he was.

You two chatted about simple things really.

“You always mention how you don’t know how to converse but you always do it easily with me,” he mentions after a few minutes of you discussing.

“Well yeah with you it feels simple.”

It was easy talking with him. You didn’t feel like you had to be cautious or hold your breath, everything was natural and he easily matched your energy.

“Well,” he takes a sovereign and tosses it into the well and your jaw drops because times are rough out here, “I’m making a wish here and now that you overcome your fears. And when you’re feeling nervous or anxious take deep breathes and think of this feeling now.”

In that moment you, with the support of his words that lifted you, you felt brave. You felt confident. With no fear stopping you, you stepped forward, pressing your lips against Willy’s.

There’s a slow reaction on his part no doubt due to being caught off guard but soon you separate from the man. And as you do, you realize how much more surprised he seemed than you initially thought.

“I’m sorry, I hope that was okay.”

He opens his mouth to respond when a familiar car pulls up. And once close enough you recognize your father as he gets out.

He looks absolutely furious.

“Dad.”

He plants himself in front of Willy, “go wait in the car, I have to talk to Mr.Wonka privately.”

Although you don't want to, you do, deciding it to be the best for the situation, but not before sharing a look with the chocolatier first.

Once in the car you watch the two talk just as before. At least that’s how it began. It all took a turn once your father grabbed Willy’s head and shoved it into the cold water of the fountain. It was all so sudden, you never expected him to do anything like that.

Thankfully he didn’t keep him under long but it was all such an odd thing to witness. You saw them talk more, or more accurately your father chat more before making his way back to the car.

You couldn’t believe he did that.

Once back in the car your father wastes no time in addressing the elephant in the room. “Really? Him? I thought I raised you better.”

You rolled your eyes at the spiel you expected yet hope you wouldn’t have to hear. “You’re running around with that scoundrel? I really don’t know what happened, but you’ve changed. Don’t go near him, he’s a troublemaker.”

You don’t know if it was the constant noise from your father or the fact he was talking ill about someone you cared about. But you couldn’t take it anymore, “he’s not a troublemaker,” you say with gritted teeth.

“What?”

“He’s not a troublemaker. He’s an honest hearted man, doing honest hearted work in the world and trying to bring people peace of mind. You always said that’s what the world needed more of, but now here it is and it's like you’ve flipped. You don’t know what happened to me, well I don’t know what happened to you?” You finished sinking in your seat and crossing your arms angrily.

You knew you pushed it, no matter your age, no matter how angry you are, you never talk to your father like that, but you couldn’t help it he was so wrong.

Your father drives in silence and you can be sure you get some sort of discipline once you’re home, but you stand by your words.

After that experience you don’t see Willy and you don’t hear of him. You grow upset, because either your father has scared him off, or if not that, you’ve scared him off with that unexpected kiss you practically threw on him.

You cringed at the memory of his expression now regretting being bold in that moment.

Eventually you hear about a mess at the town church. And with you already being in the area you go to investigate the odd story and sure enough there’s a great crowd of no doubt a funeral, (as they’re dressed all in black), standing outside as the doors remain shut.

You watch it all happen as familiar faces come and get the giraffe and it's at that point that you realize something peculiar is happening you just don't know what.

You watch the other towns chocolatiers enter, and then around the side you notice a strange orange looking fellow enter. Deciding you wanted to be apart of whatever was happening you follow him through the side entrance.

Inside you spot the orange man, going into the confessional and you watch through the small holes as he pushes something before the whole confessional descends.

Although a little fearful you follow the man and once the elevator reaches the bottom you jump as the smaller man stands directly across, staring right at you.

“If you wanted to help you could’ve just asked,” he said and you blinked a couple times.

“I’m sorry do we know each other?”

“Do you know me? No. Do I know you? Yes, I am always aware of Willy Wonka’s associates. We could stand here getting to know each other but I’m afraid your associate may need our assistance, and frankly I don’t really want to know you.”

Although initially offended, you listen as the orange man gives instructions and fills you in. Moving to the side, you hide in the long hallway while you wait as the so-called chocolate cartel come out only to walk right by you.

When that happens you put the orange man's plan into action. You do as told following his instructions, turning wheels and pulling levers.

Poking your head in you watch the chocolate drain while the orange man goes towards the exit telling you to follow him.

You do as told and follow him to the center of the floor noticing the chocolate drain as Wily and Noodle initially express surprise then thankfulness as they wave.

Eventually they come out and everything is revealed: the cartel, the chocolate payments, your father, it all comes to light.

It’s a sad sight seeing your father change and get taken away but maybe it’s what had to happen. You glance around noticing the joy in everyone’s faces as they share part in the chocolate fountain.

Wonka steps beside, causing you to say, “guess that's it then, that’s everyone’s happy ending.”

He tilts his head slightly, “not entirely.”

You go to ask him what he means by that, but he cuts you off with a kiss. It was much like yours, short, and unexpected. But unlike before, you reciprocated.

Once he distances himself from you, he recalls, “I hope that was okay.”

“More than okay.”

[liondrakes]

Involuntariness, Voluntariness, and the Stigmas In Between

by Sivaan of Candlekeep

The following writings were cross-posted from Dreamwidth. I’ve formatted my writings to better suit Tumblr. The original is still available on Dreamwidth; my journal is linked in my pinned.

This journal entry will have a looser structure than usual since it’s coming from a place of frustration. I’m not venting, though. These are criticisms on what I’ve noticed lately.

In terms of how my identities developed, I prefer the term quoiluntary. I have this preference for two reasons: 1. I experience all manners of origin, so the context varies from species to species and 2. I don’t give a fuck either way. I only emphasize on origin when I’m coming from a place of pride. Otherwise, I don’t care to differentiate myself from those whose experiences aren’t like mine.

Make no mistake, I can understand why someone would feel like they should emphasize on their involuntariness. I used to be the same way. Even now, I recognize the significance of the identities I have that I didn’t choose. I am innately this character, this beast, this concept, you name it. It’s laid dormant inside me for so long, and now I’m finally free. I absolutely see why that is something to be proud of.

At the same time, that’s not the only reason why folks talk about involuntariness in comparison to other experiences. Sadly, whether folks are conscious of it or not, it feels like involuntariness and voluntariness are still played against each other in this community.

No amount of validity posts has changed the fact that folks still engage with their peers, or at least what they hear about said peers, as if they’re KFF-adjacent or “wrong” about how they feel. It’s like folks don’t bother in understanding other experiences unless it’s within their threshold of comfort, let alone respect them as equals.

What’s the point in acting as if involuntariness is the only experience that’s inherently profound?

What’s the point in saying “Yeah, there’s nothing wrong with voluntary identity!” and proceeding to go “Well, actually…!” when met with anything that isn’t otherlinking?

Speaking as someone who does link identities, I hate the assumption that chosen/voluntary identity is inherently “less serious” and not as important as other experiences. Nine times outta ten, folks are going off of what they see from young members. Still, they are children. If you expect them to not be the least bit light-hearted, then I’m not sure what else you expected. Some of them may be misinformed. Some of them may be simply expressing themselves. Either way, using one demographic to mold your perception of an entire group doesn’t show much solidarity towards us at all. You can’t blame kids for everything. I said so on my blog: there’s such a thing as being narrow-minded about experiences that you don’t personally have (for those who apply).

What folks may not know is that there’s a lot of empowerment in actively choosing to be something, let alone something outside of the “norm” of a vastly anthropocentric world. It may seem like frivolously picking up something and not caring for it in the grand scheme of things, but that’s also a very limited understanding of other people’s experiences within our community. I too advocate for more personal introspection, but truthfully, it’s nobody’s business whether or not our peers engage with their own identity like a Greek philosopher, seated upon the steps of the Agora in deep thought. Some people are what they are, choice or no choice.

Furthermore, I hate how the act of otherlinking is treated as the “valid” way to choose an identity. It’s not said out loud, but the takes surrounding chosen identity certainly make it feel that way.

I understand that there’s plenty of new members who don’t know most communal lingo. Some of them aren’t going to know that there’s terminology relating to voluntary identities and may hook onto what they do know. It’s one thing to educate them on these terms. That’s great! Introduce them to sides of our community that they aren’t familiar with! You never know when it may help someone in their journey along the way.

It’s something else entirely to a.) assume someone is misinformed and doesn’t know their own identity, b.) assume someone is spreading misinformation for simply labeling their identity as chosen, and/or c.) make unnecessary comments about how they’re not “really” or “technically” the label they identify as but you accept it anyway. Unless someone plainly states they’re an otherlinker, folks respond with skepticism and doubt. It doesn’t even need to be a named person or their account. Just the idea of it ruffles feathers.

I’m going to make something very clear: I don’t speak for all otherlinkers as I air out my thoughts. This is solely my standing on the issue.

With that out of the way, I must say I’m very disappointed that some folks still hold these sorts of mindsets towards chosen identities. I am not any more “serious” or “valid” of a nonhuman for linking than an individual who chose to be someone or something without having to build upon it. Someone doesn’t overcomplicate or muddy down the meaning of anything by simply choosing their identity. The implication of such is disrespectful in my opinion.

Who is to say that their choice(s) didn’t have any significance of their own?

Someone could come across a character or species that reminds them of themself so much, they simply decide that they are that character or species. They don’t need to build upon anything. What if they just know and make that choice based on knowing?

Someone could love something so much to the point of wanting to be the very thing they admire. Some folks may not need to build upon that identity if they already love it so much that this love shaped who they are.

What folks forget is that otherlinking isn’t just a label. It is an act. You actively link something. You build upon that relationship to the point of identification. I’ve had this happen for a former link, which is now my Dwemer constel. I still take pride in the factor of choice because I don’t often choose what I get to be. The act of doing so is quite freeing. It’s a similar kind of freedom I feel when I unearth an intrinsic identity. They are processed differently, yes, but both are equally a part of me. No involuntary or quoiluntary constel outweighs a voluntary constel in terms of significance.

Moreover, the act of otherlinking takes consistency. I can’t leave it at just saying “I chose to be (x)” like how most folks assume. When an identity is still in the process of becoming my own, it stays in the link phase. Personally, things I experience with vague or involuntary identities are usually a sign of my link making progress. For example, managing to phantom shift into one of my links is a sign of huge progress for me. This morning, this happened with my Verza link. I’m still a Verza right now, and it makes me excited that I’ve gotten closer to being this species. Some past links, like my Splatoon-based link and my Wickerbeast link, eroded away. This happens all the time with links. Some stay and become a part of me. Some are shed and that’s that.

When someone calls themself a chosen therian or chosen nonhuman, they likely didn’t need to do what I do. They chose something. They became that thing. That’s it. That is not the same as the conscious act of otherlinking.

I’m all for educating new members, especially young ones, on our community’s terms, but I’m also thoroughly annoyed with how these would-be “educators” conflate experiences. I wish people would look beyond their noses and understand that just because both experiences involve voluntariness, that doesn’t mean they are interchangeable. It looks less like trying to help someone find a label that may suit them, and more like trying to nudge them into that spot out of your own comfort.

They don’t fit the standard of this label that’s had a word-of-mouth definition for so long, so it’s perfectly fine to cast doubt if they’re “really” that identity or not. Right? (This is sarcasm).

The defensiveness is justified when it’s actually applicable. Therian is one such example. The therian label is heavily guarded due to actual misinformation spreading around it, plus its overall spread throughout social media. It’s understandable why folks want to preserve the label, its meaning and its history so badly. It’s needed when folks claim that therianthropy isn’t identifying as an animal. To call oneself a therian when you aren’t an animal defeats the whole point of using the label. Defensiveness is justified in this context.

However, it’s not needed in context to involuntariness and voluntariness. In my opinion, it’s similar to how the “earthen” part of the definition was never needed. It was wedged in there for fuck all reason.

When it comes down to it, a therian is an individual who identifies as a nonhuman animal. If anyone can explain to me in great detail what makes someone who chose to be a fox different from someone who’s involuntarily a fox, that’d be wonderful. Bonus points if you do so without dumbing down the experiences of the former. Besides their personal backgrounds, I guarantee you that little difference will be found between the two.

They’re both therians. Neither is any more or any less of an animal than the other.

Folks of involuntary experiences also post in silly, lighthearted ways just as some of their voluntary peers do. Those of voluntary experiences also discuss their introspections and what it’s like to choose ourselves. If you’ve made it this far, congratulations. You’re reading from someone who’s been doing that for almost a year now.

What I don’t understand is this is: when you become a part of a community, you’re always going to find folks whose perspectives are different than yours. Folks pour a lot of attention into finding like-minded individuals. That in of itself is to be expected and isn’t an issue. The issue arises when, in the midst of said search or in communal discussions, experiences that deviate from communal “norms” are put into question for no sensible reason. Folks suddenly forget that yes, these experiences are possible and yes, there are members amongst us who identify that way. Worst of all, folks still entertain the question of “valid or not valid?” as if their input on someone else’s identity isn’t invasive.

Pray tell, what do these discussions achieve?

What do we as a community benefit from these speculations if folks continue to downplay these experiences?

From where I stand, it looks like folks still want their peers to perform their identities for them. Is the issue that pressing that you need assurance of their experiences being 100% real, 100% serious, and 100% “valid” enough for you to consider them a part of this community? Is this what we’re hung up on?

On one hand, I get that otherlinker and its associated labels (funlinker, copinglinker, etc.) came about as an answer to those who claimed they chose their kintypes or theriotypes when these discourses were still hot.

On the other hand, it is 2025. The stigmas behind chosen identity have got to go. I’m not saying the concern around trolls and other anti-kin/therian groups isn’t understandable, but that same concern has also led to no nuance being added to these conversations.

Nobody is actually asking for the opinions and perspectives of those who choose their identities.

Nobody is actually looking into how we experience things.

All we get is more and more strangers speaking on us like we aren’t a part of communal discussions and can’t see what they have to say about us.

My answer so far is just being more vocal about my quoiluntariness. I’m not only discussing the identities that are involuntary, but the ones that are chosen and the ones that I honestly couldn’t care less where they came from. “Be the change you want to see,” and all that, y’know?

These frameworks are a spectrum. There’s always going to be folks who lean exclusively on one side or the other, but there’s also those of us who slide all across the spectrum. There’s also those of us who don’t care either way, and that’s arguably even better. The importance of these frameworks isn’t universal. Even when folks recognize why that may be the case for their peers, their positions show otherwise.

I’m so tired of the belief that involuntariness as an experience is so much more unique and significant, therefore someone couldn’t possibly experience that kind of significance with a chosen identity. It sounds pretentious and inconsiderate even when folks aren’t trying to be that way. All things considered, this community is in desperate need of more nuanced perspectives.

That’s all I have to say for now. Thanks for reading as always.

[theflyindutchwoman]

I-I-I want you to have a successful career. I have decided to list you as the arresting officer on all future reports. But you're senior officer. I know. But you deserve to be recognized.

| ANATOMY OF A SCENE - CHENFORD EDITION 4.18 - Backstabbers

The scene we've all been waiting for since Tim uttered the words save me a dance… and apparently so has he. There's something to be said about the fact that he had been looking forward to dancing with Lucy so much so that the moment they're finally alone, he immediately brings it up. That it happens at another wedding makes this even better. They've come full circle. If anything, it actually emphasises how much their relationship has blossomed since Angela's wedding. They've grown closer, getting even more comfortable with each other outside of work and in their personal life. There was a tentativeness when he asked for a dance the first time that has disappeared. Lucy looked a bit bashful then, whereas now she's just thrilled. Tim looks so carefree, which is not a word he's usually associated with. As a matter of fact, the last time he acted like this was also with her… when he was retelling his goat story. They're just being themselves, without ever feeling self-conscious around the other. They are simply in their own bubble, slow dancing to a music they're not paying attention to, forgetting the world around them… under fairy lights making the atmosphere completely romantic. The smile on his face when he spins her around is pure joy and happiness. The way they look at each other… she keeps looking at his lips and he's gazing at her so lovingly… There's a certain irony in the fact that they're both in relationships, and still, they never look at their partners like that… not even remotely close. This moment is full of love and adoration. And respect.

This is another part that mirrors the original scene as well. Back at Angela's wedding, Tim was praising Lucy for her success on her first solo undercover op. This time, he takes a step further and shows how much he values her and her abilities by letting her take credit on all future reports. He may be dismissive at first, be it with her pursuing undercover work or her being (rightfully) upset about having her achievements downplayed or credited to someone else… but he actually pays attention to what Lucy says and reflects on his actions, on how he can do or be better. Because at the end of the day, he wants her to succeed and will always support her. Lucy's reaction is incredibly touching. She looks moved, to the point where she deflects a bit and takes the occasion to fluster him. But it's apparent how much it means to her to have his understanding and his approval, considering her lack of support system outside her Mid-Wilshire family… and considering her best friend is no longer there. His unwavering faith is so important : not just because he was her training officer, but because he's someone she respects and admires a lot. His I know alone says so much on how he feels. The tone he's using is so soft. The way they always go to bat for each other is really special… combined with their joy at being together, and it makes this moment that much sweeter. They always manage to blur the lines, talking about their personal lives in the shop, talking about work in a private setting. And that dichotomy between the romantic atmosphere and their conversation about the job just works perfectly for them.

[cozza-frenzy]

Was going to put this in the tags, but - re: anon's implication that "maybe the problem is you"? We actually just covered that in therapy, and we've kind of come to a conclusion on our own. Long post, but, I feel like this is important enough to post about. See, the thing is, as a collective we have a majority of charismatic extroverts. We're also autistic and mentally ill - and while we've been aware of the first thing for a long time, we didn't know about the second until about 2 years ago. So we were covertly switching the entire time - unaware we had dissociated parts, and each part only retaining partial awareness of what other parts were doing. We don't have DID, we have OSDD - so we had just enough amnesia to fuck things up, but not enough that we or anyone else would notice. So in other words... from someone else's perspective, we would waltz in and absolutely dominate a conversation, since being autistic means we often miss social cues. And without the awareness we have now, there could have been anywhere between 2 and 4 alters comfortably rotating the front to talk. All of them semi-clueless about how much other parts are talking, because unless we're actively co-conscious (which takes intentional effort) we don't get 100% of what's been happening before we switched. Combine that with the fact we'd also seemingly shrug off negative feelings at a moment's notice (due to dissociation)? That we frequently forget exactly what we did to upset someone or seemed detached from the situation (again, dissociation)? That alters switching in and missing context clues or information about our life would often "fill in the gaps" by making shit up, because that was how we pretended we were normal, even when we were walking into a situation we didn't recognize? It's not really surprising that we'd raise a bunch of red flags, especially with people who've been abused. People would say we're a liar, we're manipulative, we're dangerous, we're preying on people - and other people's knee-jerk reactions to seeing us get accused often meant we couldn't defend ourselves. They rarely wanted to hear our side of the story, and our attempts to refute the accusations were seen as "making excuses". The burden was on us to prove our innocence, even to people who we thought we were friends with. But especially now we're aware of each other, we do try to hold ourselves and each other accountable for our behavior. Being autistic and charismatic means you're much less likely to notice when someone can't bring themselves to confront you; but we've been dedicating a lot of time and energy to learning about healthy boundaries. How to set them for ourselves, how to establish them with others, and how to deal with the fallout when a violation happens. It might seem like stereotypical therapy speak, but when your parents had very little concept of boundaries, that really fucks up your understanding of what is and isn't okay and in what context. The nature of this disorder means I can't always remember clearly (if at all) who we hurt and in what ways, but we're working on collective self-improvement. Anyway - while I did feel like this was important? Don't expect too many posts like this from us. People like anon can draw whatever conclusion they want about us not trying hard enough, they can slap us with as many "maybe if this keeps happening the problem is YOU" as they want. But what we need to focus on right now is letting go of what people like that think of us - especially when it's pretty obvious they've already made up their minds.

[intothestacks]

Tips for Children's Librarians 8/?

Regardless of the demographics of your patrons, make a conscious effort to read books with diverse characters.

That doesn’t mean the books need to have a diverse cast every time, but rather that you don’t always pick books with characters (especially main characters) from the same race.

Let every race have their turn at being represented. Not necessarily every time, but enough that the kids see themselves as well as others on a regular basis. Seeing oneself being represented and seeing people different from yourself represented are both wildly important.

This also means that you should make an effort to read stories with characters with different disabilities when possible too. You might have to look around for lists of books with disabled characters, but if you manage to slip in even a single disabled character book it’s a start. One book is better than none. You can work on expanding over time.

Make a conscious effort to also read books that question stereotypes.

Here's a starter list of books to add to your storytelling repertoire:

Red: A Crayon's Story by Michael Hall - Though it was probably intended to be an explanation about what being transgender is like, it also serves well for talking about invisible disabilities like dyslexia and autism, which means you can adapt the same story to talk about two different minorities. The gist of the story is that a crayon, called Red, can only draw blue things, no matter how hard they try and none of the other crayons can understand why Red can only draw blue, until another crayon recognizes that there's nothing wrong with Red but rather that they were mislabelled all along.

Families, Families, Families! by Suzanne Lang - A book about how families come in all shapes and sizes. It features a pretty extensive display of different family combinations, such as: gay and lesbian parents, parents that are divorced vs married, families with many kids vs single children, families with single parents (both male and female), families with stepsiblings, kids that live with their grandparents or aunts/uncles, and adopted kids to name a few. They even have the example of kids who have many pets vs kids with no pets!

Prince & Knight by Daniel Haack - A cute story about a prince trying to find a spouse to help him rule; it turns out he's gay and marries a knight instead of a princess.

Think Big! and Boo! by Robert Munsch - Both have Black main characters. While it's important to have stories that focus on the unique experiences and struggles of minorities, it's also important to feature books that have stories where the fact that a character is a minority is incidental and not what the focus of the story is about. These two picture books are great examples of this kind of book.

Lost and Found Cat: The True Story of Kunkush's Incredible Journey by Doug Kuntz and Amy Shrodes - The story of a lost cat's journey to be reunited with his Iraqi refugee family.

Dreamers by Yuyi Morales - The memoir of a Mexican refugee who moved to the United States with her infant son in 1994 and about how even though she left nearly everything she owned behind, she, like all refugees and immigrants, didn’t come empty-handed as they carry their culture, skills, and strengths with them.

Room on Our Rock by Jol Temple and Kate Temple – Three seals are perched on a rock. When others need shelter, do they share it? When read from front to back, the group of seals firmly believe there is no room on their rock for the parent and child seal who are seeking a place to rest. Readers are then encouraged to read the story again, from back to front, revealing a welcoming message where the seals make room for others and share their rock.

My Name Is Yoon by Helen Recorvits – Yoon's name means "shining wisdom," and when she writes it in Korean, it looks happy, like dancing figures. But her father tells her that she must learn to write it in English. In English, all the lines and circles stand alone, which is just how Yoon feels in the United States. Yoon isn't sure that she wants to be YOON. At her new school, she tries out different names.

The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi – Being the new kid in school is hard enough, but what about when nobody can pronounce your name? Having just moved from Korea, Unhei is anxious that American kids will like her. So instead of introducing herself on the first day of school, she tells the class that she will choose a name by the following week. Her new classmates are fascinated by this no-name girl and decide to help out by filling a glass jar with names for her to pick from.

[spacedryadkepler]

malevolent chapter 49 spoilers!

(the most rambling of thoughts)

-i went into this episode with some spoilers cause i couldn’t listen to the ep until late in the evening, and couldn’t help myself when it came to browsing tumblr

those were: oscar’s letter being illegible ( not too surprised about that one, given the constant rain, the mud, the blood loss, and the swimming/wading through bodies of water. i’d have been shocked if it survived)

arthur lester crashes out (again)

arthur and john reunited with the dearly beloved and missed cast member: “falling in holes”

and arthur uses All Of The Bullets

this turned the episode into a fun mystery game for me (on top of the in-episode murder mystery), trying to figure out when these things would occur

anyway onto the actual episode

- we saw it a lot last episode but i looooove seeing how much john is stepping up and pulling extra weight for arthur while he’s unwell. it’s sooo different from the dysfunctional dynamic they had when dealing with other people during season 4.

i’ll never get tired of seeing the contrast against past events of how far the boys have come and changed

-arthur sure is doing. Really! Bad! uh oh!

-despite that he still gets some great great spotlight of his people skills, dealing with the suspicious and unpredictable castle gang, and the one-on-one intimidation with the friar

-the friar in fact, did not do it, as i thought, but the lord everard reveal is way more interesting so i like this outcome

-something about benevolent christmas special referencing the falling in holes thing, and a new incident of Arthur and John Fall in a Hole being in an episode that released on christmas day is very funny to me, even though i know the part of the episode featuring Falling in a Hole most likely released a couple weeks ago

- arthur giving up because he doesn’t believe that on a fundamental, physical level he’s capable of pushing on and surviving is so heartbreaking to listen to.

despite knowing this is Malevolent, i somehow wasn’t expecting to get emotional this episode!

i got lulled into a false sense of security by the previous episodes (which were pretty chill, compared to the standard), even though i knew they were luring me into a false sense of security

- john reciting Invictus to arthur is so ougggh aggghh oof ouch my heart, i loved it. but also it makes me crazy and i can’t stop thinking about it because

when arthur has referenced pieces of Invictus in the past, john didn’t recognize it.

since john has picked up knowledge of human experiences and poetry from arthur, in some sort of bleed-over of knowledge due to their shared state of being, we can assume that Invictus is not among that selection that bled over.

when john asks about it, arthur specifically says it’s “not for you”, keeping a poem that’s so meaningful to him close to his chest.

it makes sense, this was during the prison pits, and the last thing that arthur shared that was important to him, was wielded against him, painfully.

arthur does recite Invictus to yellow, but he was drunk/poisoned, and given the way he brushes off questions the next day, i assume he wouldn’t have freely recited it had he had all of his faculties about him.

but now, after all that’s happened, how arthur and john’s relationship has changed so drastically from the way it was in the dreamlands.

now john has been able to pick up the poem, accumulated as part of the bleed-over knowledge. i don’t think there’s any conscious control on the part of either party when it comes to what knowledge is shared with john, but it feels significant that Now he has access to it, after all this time.

and what he does with it, is he uses it to raise arthur up. to support and try and encourage arthur to push on. head bloodied, but unbowed.

these two make me so crazy it’s insane!!!!!!!

- anyways, because i’m also crazy about kayne, when john mentioned the coin, and then a voice that i didn’t immediately realize was everard spoke, i did very briefly freak out going “omg kayne??? kayne??? kayne???” before coming to my senses.

- also it’s delightful that the boys found an ally here?? i really wasn’t expecting that honestly, after season four, given the circumstances they were placed into, i thought this season would be a return to form of the pair having no one they can safely trust, other than themselves. very neat to be proven wrong!

and it’s a very delightful way to twist it that ultimately they can’t rely upon/work with this ally in the end, because they’re stuck working for one of those very “dark forces” that everard is working against.

- YAY WAHOO for arthur getting healed from his sickness, but i am very curious about how the next episode will go, given that it’s “not simple” and “will take some time”.

it’s possible there will be a short time skip, but i feel like an episode about curing a magical sickness and ridding arthur of horrig’s influence, has potential to be another character development bottle episode of sorts, like The Nightmare.

also can alia detect john?? will she be able to detect john when healing arthur??

what if she deems john as some “dark force” that arthur needs healed from as well

or what if she deems john is Not a “dark force” (that one would make me cry)

i can’t wait for the next ep

[palossssssand]

woah that questions list! can i ask tier 5 #22 & tier 6 #14 for Trito and tier 0 #6 & #17 for Jilon?

Yes !!! yeah!!! Trito -Tier 5 #22: Who were their role models growing up? Are they still their role models or have their views changed?

Definitely his parents...they were very attentive and patient with him, he was kind of a shy kid. He's grown out of being clingy mostly but there's still a fondness for them, they taught him love and kindness and he carries that with him all the time. I don't know if he ever sees them again after leaving for the metros, I'm sure he would very much like to.

And the other obvious answer is Kinoga. He didn't have a super rough time when he first joined the army, but he found Kinoga to be a steady presence, grew stronger with them, looked up to them quite a bit. Now, they're less so of a role model than a good friend with a warrior's bond, but I think the feeling of adoration for them still stands true.

-Tier 6 #14: How good of an understanding do they have about themself? Are they a stranger to themself? Do they even think about it?

I think there are definitely his moments where he's too aware of what's going on with him. Especially pre-reunion. I think he feels frustrated whenever he delves too deep into missing the squad, and the fact that he knows he consistently spirals into it and doesn't know how to stop it. He also knows himself well enough that stressing about it won't do him any good, so his life is full of distractions. Actually, it would be to his discredit to call them just distractions, he takes pride in being able to enjoy life as it is, so long as he distances himself from things that remind him that he's hiding a lot of anguish. Unfortunately that means he's going to be conscious about it all the time and he wishes he could Not Do That effortlessly.

Jilon -Tier 0 #6: Living situation; where do they live? How did they end up there?

Jilon lives somewhere in Inkopolis, probably alone. He left the octarian domes not long after Kanu did, and ends up on the surface. A lot of the details for Jilon are muddy and undecided, he just needs to marinate a little more. The important detail is that in that point in time, only Denchu and Jilon were left over from the squad. Jilon, seeing how distraught Denchu was seeing Kanu leave and putting in so much effort to keep in touch, was hesitant to announce that he wanted to leave as well. And he took the worse option of just leaving without a trace because he didn't want to stress her out even more (or at least, didn't want to be there when she found out). His whole thing being "I don't know if we were that close in the first place, and it should be okay, it's just like a job reassignment" and not really saying this with his whole chest, just an explanation he came up with for being stressed about the rest of the squad leaving as well. I'm unsure if he actually intended to go to the surface or if he just wanted to leave and then somehow ends up there.

-Tier 0 #17: What is THE THING that they’re recognized as being good at by others? Do they recognize that skill in themself?

Jilon is keen on observation and has a great memory, taking thorough notes when he worked closely with Kinoga, though this doesn't really get noticed much by anyone besides Kinoga because Jilon is much more passive. Jilon does take pride in this skill, but he isn't particularly outwards about it, he likes to keep it to himself to be humble, especially because he thinks Kinoga overshadows him in terms of actually applying these observations. He likes bartending because he likes to observe what sort of people come in to order, he remembers regulars, and he's good at his job.

questions list

[positivlyfocused]

What Happens When I Appear In Client Dreams

A lot happens in nonphysical. “Nonphysical” is a better description of what humans call “Dreaming”. In that state, while the body refreshes itself in bed, our consciousness flows into the exact same place we come from before birth and return to after what humans call death.

Our “consciousness” is what we ultimately are: conscious aware energy.

While the body rests in sleep state, the aware energy that we are cooperates with innumerable other energetic beings in the massive co-creation that is universal expansion. Nearly every human knows nothing about this. Even those we vaunt as successful and highly educated. Indeed most humans think dreams are nothing more than the brain processing the day’s activities.

Nothing can be further from what’s really happening.

What’s really happening is each of us participates in the sacred process of creating more and more of All That Is. In that sacred process, we glorify ourselves and each other in a massive act of love. A massive act of loving ourselves. And through that act, that expression, out of us spring more joyful, unfolding realities.

So when clients get to the point of the Positively Focused dream work where they start experiencing the majesty of what they really are, that indicates remarkable-worthy progress.

Let’s look at what happened this week when a client met me in nonphysical and what happened next. And let’s look at what that means for him, for me and for the Universe at large.

What happened

The client, let’s call him “Jim”, talked about his experience in the beginning of our session. It happened that same morning, in the early hours, he said. In the “dream”, Jim said, we both walked into a large hall. Jim said he was part of “my followers”. As we entered the hall, two other beings entered as well accompanied by their followers. In the dream Jim recognized me and the other two as “spiritual leaders”.

The three spiritual leaders, me and the other two, sat at a large table. Our followers, Jim said, sat behind each of us. Then the spiritual leaders talked about plans underway. After the conversation, the three of us also talked about next steps. Jim then described how the spiritual leader he interpreted as leading the meeting entrusted me and the other leader with next steps. He said the presiding leader exuded tremendous confidence that me and the other being would complete the project.

So that was the experience as Jim described it. What does it mean? What’s the significance of an experience like that, one that humans would describe as “just a dream”? Was it just that? Or was it something more?

It was something more.

This was an important experience for Jim. It also was an important experience for me. Here’s why.

Way more than our physical bodies

Jim’s experience represents the second event a client shared in which the client and I interacted in nonphysical. The first happened a few weeks ago, when a client in Hawaii confirmed my Astral Travel experience. In that experience, while in a hypnopompic state, that client felt my consciousness arrive in her awareness. She allowed me to ride into and alongside her consciousness and experienced “me” in her awareness.

This happened while I was, at the same time, in meditation. I felt my own version of what she described. And so this experience confirmed by another that I’m progressing in my ability to travel as pure energy. If you’re interested about that experience, I wrote a whole blog post about it.

The fact that a second client now experienced me in their nonphysical state shows great promise for these two clients and for me. It confirms for me that these experiences aren’t just delusions I’m experiencing. Indeed, as Seth affirmed, they are real, actual experiences available to all of us. Because all of us are way more than our physical bodies.

We are pure, positive energy beings, as Abraham likes to say. I, for one, took those words seriously, as well as those of Seth. So I’ve focused a lot of my life over the last 10 years to discovering how far this You Create Your Own Reality Business (YCYORB) goes. What I’m discovering is, it can go as far as we want it…limited only by our beliefs.

And this is the benefit of Jim’s experience for him. It’s showing him, like mine are showing me, the true breadth and depth of who and what we are. And the feelings coming with such experiences are astounding in how good they feel.

Unlimited benefits

Jim fascination with that dream matched my own. The details are important because they confirm many things Abraham told me about my trajectory.

A lot happens in nonphysical. Even when we’re awake, parts of us remain active in there. We can perceive that active part of us, but it takes practice. That’s only because most humans condition themselves out of believing they can perceive that way.

The same holds true for perceiving nonphysical while the body sleeps. Again, most people don’t believe dreams mean anything. Those beliefs must be soothed before we perceive what’s really happening. Jim is a perfect example of what happens when we do that soothing. So are my experiences.

^^Dream state offers a peek into all that we are. (ChatGPT interpretation prompted by me)

Perceiving these alternative realities is our natural state. That’s why when I calm my mind, I can experience other dimensions in which I’m active. Of course, my awareness during sleep state is extremely keen. I remember a large number of dreams every night. And waking from them I feel the deepest joy and empowerment. I’ve written about those in previous posts. And I’ll likely write about more in the future.

The thing is, we are far more than human. Benefits that come from that broader awareness are unlimited. Through that awareness we can deliberately create any reality we want. 

We’re all creators

Jim’s dream, as I wrote above, confirmed many things Abraham told me about my trajectory. I am an emissary of what’s possible. I’m here to show humanity what it’s capable of. And I’m here holding the space in which humanity is expanding.

I’m not the only one. As Jim’s “dream” showed, I’m accompanied and am co-creating with numbers of others, others who have cadres of humans here, on earth, assisting our collective intentions.

All of us have similar experiences. We may not all be “spiritual leaders” yet. Abraham, in a public event called me a “world leader”. It is a title I now embrace given all I’ve experienced. Like Neo in The Matrix, I now believe not only who I am but what I am and what I’m here for.

No, I’m beyond believing. I’ve experienced so much, I just know. I know what and who I am. And as I expand further into that knowledge, more and more becomes available. My expansion is boundless, as is yours, dear reader.

And so I invite you to discover what my clients and I are discovering: that the world is our creation. As such we can create whatever we desire. The only thing limiting us is our imagination. No political situation, no physical perceived limit holds sway. All of those bow before us. 

Because we are creators. And when I appear in my clients’ dreams, they realize they are too.

Speaking of creators, you’re invited to a 90-minute online event on March 1 at 10 a.m. Pacific Time called Belief Constellations: Politics, Relationships And Our MAGNIFICENT Future. I’ll give a deep dive into what Belief Constellations are and how to use them to align with the fabulous future on the horizon. It’s only $15. Grab a spot, or, if you’re a MeetUp member, go here.

[cloudbtw]

Closed starter for: @augustbtw

Where and When: In a common area away from the courtyard, Around 1 PM

While it wasn't exactly a secret that grief could be incredibly tiring, Christopher was still taken by surprise by just how tired he felt at this point in the day. With a desperation that hurt nearly as badly as the pain of the loss itself, he wanted to crawl under the covers of his bed in his dorm and go to sleep, but was being held back by the fact that he knew if he got into bed now, he wouldn't be able to drag himself out in time for the important things still to come that day. So, he had taken to walking around campus, thinking about his departed friend, and waiting for the moment when he'd pushed passed the tiredness enough that it was no longer a thought in his mind. As he wandered, he found himself examining the faces of the people he passed by, wondering what they were thinking, how they were feeling about this loss they had all suffered, until, with a jolt, he recognized one of the faces, and his feet carried him toward its owner without a conscious thought. "August. Hey." Christopher said, his voice sounding hoarse to himself as it escaped him. "Look I uh....I....Geez, man, I'm sorry. I just... I don't even know what to say right now." His voice trembled a bit as it wavered off, before he shook his head and ran a hand through his hair, his eyes suddenly feeling heavy with a mix of the emotion that had been weighing on him all day and the helplessness of the moment he now found himself in from being at a loss for words that seemed adequate. "I uh...I know we don't know each other very well, but if um...if you want to go to the vigil together, or...or meet there and...you know, stand together...I just....Well, I'm gonna be there. So..so yeah. Open invitation, alright?"

[baphymittens]

JTTW/Part Two

Wukong got into the habit of isolating himself from the others for a while after arguments. The others in their group did not mind the change at this point. When the monkey did this, he was less likely to kill people, preferring to take his anger out on whatever trees or rocks were around instead of a living person. He always returned, a little dirtier, but in a better mood.

This time, he was not alone when he returned.

Tripitaka certainly didn't expect Wukong to come back with an unconscious woman in his arms and talk excitedly about being rewarded.

Oh God, he kidnapped a woman.

It took a tightening of the golden headband and a nervous Wujing to get the girl safely away from the Monkey King for Tripitaka to be willing to listen to him.

Wukong's eyes narrowed as he looked at his master sitting across from him. "Ah see, see! This is why I asked for a better companion!" He jumps up from his previous position of curled up on the ground in pain and stands up, pointing a clawed finger at the monk. "You always assume the worst of me, don't believe me. I have lived as an immortal for so long, I have no need for lies. I am telling you the truth."

"Wukong..." The monk begins. "I apologize for making you feel this way. But your past actions do not make it easy for me." Sighing, he jesters to the resting woman next to him, whom Wujing had carefully placed on some bedding. "This situation is sudden and very strange."

"Well, I say it's quite simple, Master. I asked for someone to be sent who would understand and appreciate me, and now she's here. How she came was a surprise to me as well, but perhaps they knew it was better not to keep The Great Sage Equal to Heaven waiting." He straightens up and puffs out his chest.

Bajie let out a boisterous laugh from his spot under a nearby tree. “Ha! I'm sure Brother Monkey is exaggerating. Why would the gods reward someone as naughty as him, and with a woman as beautiful as this no less. He can't be telling the truth! I'm sure it's all just a tall tale he's spinning.”

Wukong had been so sure that this was a reward from the gods, and now it was being laughed at. Angry, he looks to the pig demon and bares his teeth“ I am telling you the truth, and I expect you to believe me-” 

Tripitaka felt a large hand on his shoulder and looked to see Wujing kneeling at his side.

“Master, I understand your hesitation, but you've seen some strange things yourself, unbelievable things.” He nods to the girl. “Someone falling from the heavens certainly wouldn't be the strangest thing to happen. Perhaps he really is telling the truth and… for as long as I've known him, he has shown no interest in women. For what reason would he steal one?”

The monk remained silent as he thought about what Wujing had said.

If... Wukong is really telling the truth... one must consider the fact that Wukong has undergone a great transformation during his journey, and he has been able to learn and grow as a person. He has been able to recognize and understand the importance of "some" basic morals. But he still often sees killing as necessary and often causes trouble. It's true that he's better than he was, but...

Why do they meet in this way? Why not have them meet like he did with his other disciples? If she really fell from the sky, does that mean she's from heaven? What is Wukong expected to do with her? Could it be a test? 

"Wha... what's..."

At the sound of a feminine voice all four men look to the previously resting girl. Her eyes have a distant, unfocused appearance, indicating that she's not completely conscious. She looks around in confusion. First looking at the monk before settling on the large blue demon. Eyes meeting Wujing quickly becomes flustered and hides behind his master, in vain with the difference in size.

Wukong chirps in excitement, on all fours he quickly makes his way to her. Rudely shoving the two men away.

He scooted close enough to invade her personal space. “Girl, your name. What is it?” Wukong asks, eagerly waiting for an answer. She looks around in confusion, trying to make sense of her current predicament.

[dumboass]

14/08/2024 || Torrevieja

I feel the need to write so i can make my ideas clear. I am in Torrevieja with a friend of mine. She broke up with her boyfriend. I came to be here with her during these moments. I probably think that it was a fast decision. I should've thought about myself first. It's very tiring. And i need a space for myself. I thought about giving a space for my bf and being with a friend without really thinking about what could make me truly good. I have always thought that it's not worth it to have some days off for myself. However, now i did it very quickly for someone else. The least i can do is to learn from it. I could have passed this time by myself and discovered myself more and more. I could have done some activities i like.. A very important thing i learned about myself is that i am very strong. Even stronger than what i always thought. I am very mature, conscious, responsible, and intelligent. I also know how to enjoy life even though i have some big problems. That's a very important point that i think that my bf needs to appreciate it more and get to know my true value.

Gpt :

It sounds like you're experiencing a lot of emotions and realizations right now. It's important to acknowledge that you're going through a process of self-discovery, even if it comes from a situation that feels challenging. Being there for your friend in Torrevieja, despite the exhaustion and the feeling that you may have neglected your own needs, shows a lot about your strength and character.This experience seems to have highlighted for you the importance of self-care and the value of taking time for yourself. It's a significant lesson that you don't always have to put others first, especially when it comes at the expense of your own well-being. Your ability to recognize your own strength, maturity, and the fact that you can enjoy life even amidst challenges is crucial.It's also clear that you want to be appreciated and valued, especially by your boyfriend. This time could be an opportunity for you to communicate more clearly with him about what you need and how you want to be seen in the relationship. Your awareness of your own value is something that you should carry with you moving forward, ensuring that others also recognize and respect that.In reflecting on this experience, you've gained insight into what you need to feel fulfilled and balanced. Next time, perhaps you can make decisions that better align with those needs. Learning to prioritize yourself is a valuable skill, and it sounds like you're well on your way to mastering it.

[oswaldsleftbicep]

hey, could you write headcanons about how Lucia, Oswald and Lucas would be like in a romantic relationship with autistic person?

lucia, oswald, & lucas +a gn!s/o with autism

big disclaimer: i am not autistic. my basis for this post lies in my previous research of asd, reading works by autistic writers, and my encounters with my lovely friends who are on the spectrum.

genre: fluff

cw: reader has high functioning autism, language as usual

Lucia

❧ ok first off y'all would be the perfect adhd + autism duo, things just instantly click between the two of you

❧ that being said, shit just kinda flies out of his mouth sometimes and he says the darndest things that hardly make sense-- please feel free to interrupt him and have him explain in more,, understandable terms

❧ he probably had a special interest growing up but had to stifle it in favor of learning politics, so he feeds off of your special interest and gets just as into it as you do

❧ in fact, he sees you going about your life in tandem to your special interest as an "it's okay!" to finally start indulging in one of his own :,)

❧ he genuinely thinks that you're the smartest person in all of nightmare, going as far as to declare you an expert in your field and will come to you with any and all questions he has; please info dump to him, he loves it

❧ he's usually big on physical touch but he'll respect your wishes if you prefer to not be touched, or he'll always ask permission to touch you

❧ he's gotten used to having to hold intense eye contact for extended periods of time due to his position, so if you're the type to also make too much eye contact, you have nothing to worry about! he doesn't find it off putting at all! however, if you find eye contact uncomfortable, he'll remind himself to look at something else when talking to you every now and then

❧ before meeting you, he had no idea what stimming was, nor that it was something he kinda already did, like he'll tap on his desk with his pen or he'll shake his leg a lot; he used to have such a hard time sitting still but learned to mask his fidgeting over time

❧ same goes for fidget/stim toys, he's always on the lookout for something new to try with you, and the two of you have built quite a collection of favorites

❧ he absolutely funds more research on autism in nightmare, and he makes sure there are good facilities with quality resources and support available for all

❧ the first time he witnessed you have a meltdown, he kinda freaked out a bit; he genuinely was at a loss for what to do. but he asked questions after and learned from it, and now he's a champ! he's invested in a little care basket full of comfort items for when you come down

❧ he makes sure to adjust his room to meet your sensory needs. he's a generally kinda messy person, but he'll tidy up for you. he'll also invest in some good curtains and maybe even a canopy for his bed

Oswald

❧ he's soso patient and understanding so you never have to feel self conscious or bad about anything around him

❧ he's relatively new to the issue when it comes to the medical side and the terminology, but he has some experience handling it thanks to noel

❧ if your special interest has something to do with gardening or really anything nature related he gets a little excited because that's something big you two have in common! and he takes it as an opportunity to learn from you

❧ ofc that goes for any special interest you have, no matter the topic. he recognizes that it's something important to you and wants to learn all about it as best he can

❧ he's not an especially touchy person in general, and always preferred to ask before touching you anyway which is perfect for if you're not comfortable with physical contact

❧ ngl he was a little perplexed at stimming at first, but not in a bad way, moreso in a "wow that works? interesting" kinda way

❧ he also finds it lowkey adorable when you get caught up in stimming, and he just kinda admires you

❧ he'll keep a pocket sized sensory toy in his pocket at all times in case you ever want one. he'll also make it a point to carry a small case for ear plugs when you go out in public, and a little snack in case you can't find any safe foods anywhere

❧ speaking of safe foods, he always makes sure he keeps a cabinet in his cabin full of your safe foods and ingredients to make them

❧ he's very empathetic when you have a meltdown, and he's very quick to help and find out what you need in that moment

❧ if you're prone to any harmful actions during meltdowns, or even as general stims, he'll try to direct it away from you. like if you hit, he'll have you hit him or something soft so you won't hurt yourself, or if you bite your nails, he'll hold onto your hand and give you a sensory item to chew on instead

❧ his cabin is sensory heaven, never too bright, never too loud, nothing overpowering to the senses. it's very peaceful and calming

Lucas

❧ this mf speaks in riddles half the time which is hell if you have a very literal mindset. please tell him to speak right lmao

❧ he has sensory issues when it comes to clothes, like he cannot stand tight clothes or heavy fabrics; you bet he knows all the best places to get clothes that suit your exact needs

❧ he's got a deep knowledge of a lot of obscure things and is always thirsting for more, which makes him great to info dump to and with; he's such a great listener and will actually absorb what you tell him

❧ he's surprisingly not a very touchy person, and he's always super mindful about when and where he's touching you, and he's always so gentle

❧ he also always seems to know exactly what you're thinking and feeling, even when you can't express it properly, it's almost uncanny but it's mostly just insanely helpful when you feel stuck

❧ if you ever feel too insecure to stim or if you just get too tired of masking in public, he'll take the two of you to a secluded area where you can let it all out and do what you need to feel comfortable

❧ if you're prone to more harmful stims, he stops you before you can even start and suggests an alternative. he carries a little bag of emergency items for you at all times, and it's full of stuff like ear plugs, sensory toys, snacks, and even your meds if you take any

❧ he's very quiet when it comes to handling your meltdowns; he can read you well and immediately prepares what you need without a word spoken

❧ he keeps a messy house, and if that's something that causes you stress, he'll try to keep it more organized or at least categorize everything with your help

❧ he also has a ridiculously comfy bed, like something you'd only see on pinterest, and it's the best place every to unwind and relax

[divine-nonchalance]

∞

The 9D Arcturian Council Channeled by Daniel Scranton

“Greetings. We are the Arcturian Council. We are pleased to connect with all of you.

We are very interested in what makes humans happy, what brings you the most joy and puts you in the greatest amount of alignment that is possible. We witness you in many different scenarios, and we notice the ones that you thought would make you happy and compare those to the ones that actually do make you happy. What we have noticed is that happiness comes spontaneously to those who are choosing to look for that which is intrinsically joyous in their experience. In other words, if you turn your head slightly, you could be looking at a pile of garbage, but if you turn your head slightly in the other direction because you are seeking something to observe that will put a smile on your face, you could notice that there’s a field of flowers, just forty-five degrees from that pile of garbage.

So the choice is yours, as always, and it doesn’t always have to be some monumental event that will put you in a perpetual state of joy, or at least will give you some joy leading up to it, during it, and when you are remembering it. Happiness can be a choice because your ability to focus is one that you either employ or do not employ, depending on your awareness. When you are truly being conscious in the moment, you recognize that there is a choice. You can think about all the things that you have to do, or all of the life situations that have you worried when you focus upon them, or you can tilt your head slightly and look at a cloud and notice how beautiful and majestic it is.

You have animals on your planet, and certain ones naturally put you in a joyous state. Even as we speak through the channel here, he can pick up on the sounds of the birds singing outside of his home. There is so much to get happy about, and there is so much that you could focus on that would put you into a downward spiral that would then be hard to get out of, and that’s why it is so important to be present and aware of what you are focusing on in the present. You do want to enjoy this journey, and you also want to spread joy wherever you go, because that is the best way to ensure that others are also enjoying the journey.

If you put a little skip in your step as you walk down the street, someone is going to see that and smile. It is easier to connect to what brings you happiness when you set aside time in your day that you devote to those things that put you in a state of joy, but it is also possible to find the joy in your daily commute to and from work. It is also possible to find joy in the chores that you do and in the errands that you run. It is possible to appreciate the fact that you exist, that your heart is beating, and that you can breathe in air, and when you are that conscious in the moment of the joy of beingness, then that which is joyous becomes more apparent to you. 

Talk about the things that bring you joy; focus on them. Think about them, and move towards them and notice how the universe can always bring you more, and you will raise your vibration, which is something we often talk about in these transmissions. In raising your vibration, you raise the level of consciousness, and you help all of humanity. So you see, acts of service do not have to be things you force yourself to do out of a sense of obligation to be something to your fellow humans that they need you to be. You can just be yourself and be happy and help everyone along the way of their journey to the fifth dimension.

We are the Arcturian Council, and we have enjoyed connecting with you.”