fabiochiu/medium-articles huggingface dataset:
The Christmas Crone
By: Nalini Macnab
Tags: Magic, Christmas, Wisdom, Grandmother, Love

Once upon a time, long past the years when time had ceased to matter, there lived a grandmother with lovely soft skin and the kind of eyes that see right through you.

Sunlight streamed through the windows behind her, illuminating tiny glimpses of blue lake and green fields.

Grandmother’s smile seemed to soften the straight-backed chair that supported her tiny frame. The empty fireplace next to her called to be lit, though summer breezes warmed the room.

On the table in front of her was a crystal bowl of styrofoam balls, spools of thread, and many many spools of beautifully colored ribbons; the most magical ribbons anyone had ever seen. There were many tins of push pins, some silver, some gold, and some with brightly colored beads on top. Behind all this rested a very special tray, with compartments hiding special beads, stars, and other glittering bits and pieces.

With practiced fingers, Grandmother snipped and split long sections of each ribbon, coiling each carefully before her. And, when every element was arranged just right, she picked up a styrofoam ball. Palming the ball, she marked each of its cardinal directions, north, south, east, and west, before turning to the coils of ribbon. Feeling the energies of hue and shine, she dampened a ribbon and began to wrap it around the ball, humming as she spun.

Each loop of ribbon overlapped the last, just so, forming a perfect covering for the light inside. When each wrapping was complete, the shiny orb was set aside to dry. Grandmother never rushed her creations. Years of artistry had taught her the wisdom of patience and care.

Next came lace, stars, and beads, dressing each orb in shiny wishes for the magic to come. With each new star, crystal, or pin, each orb became more of what it was meant to be.

When each orb radiated its special magic, Grandmother placed it gently in a box of velvet cushioning wrapped in gold for whoever would feel its special gift of love.

All the year Grandmother spun her magic orbs. Then, at the Solstice times, both summer and winter, her gifts took wing. The magic sent them to the homes of special someones, or to the celebration in her village called Christmas in July.
Rage
By: Heidi Zuckerman
Tags: Connection, Wisdom, Life, Love, Art

Rage

“Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light.” Last night I read a post by a seasoned psychologist and grief counselor who recently experienced her own significant loss. She is sharing her grieving process as a means to continue to help others, and thereby also a way to help herself. She said if you run from grief, it will chase you. And I started thinking that anything you fear enough to run from will give chase. I spend a lot of time in nature in Colorado and there are rules for when you encounter wildlife, there are shades of difference, but mostly you maintain eye contact, make yourself as big as possible, and you do not run. Think about the things, emotions, interactions, ideas, people in your life of which you have been afraid. What have you run from and when did you find peace? For me it’s been when I stopped, turned around, and looked straight in the face of whatever or whoever I thought I needed to fear. Take back your power, do not go gently.

Monika Ikegwu paints portraits of her community. She photographs her subjects how they wish to be seen, in what they choose to wear, in their own home. She focuses precisely on their eyes, in which she is able to reveal the energy and intention. Painted with beauty and intensity, the rendering and the woman feel inspiringly fierce!
Threes
By: Nalini Macnab
Tags: Manifestation, Unity, Life Lessons, Wisdom, Transformation

Threes

Manifestation happens in threes. We talk about this all the time, perhaps without realizing we do so.

In England lives the saying, “”What I tell you three times is true.”

“Things happen in threes,” my mum used to say, usually while shaking her head in trepidation.

“Third time is the charm,” is another common utterance, known by all.

Manifestation happens in threes. So does learning. We manifest our lessons through this same principle.

First we learn through events and circumstances. This song illustrates one example of many.

Then, we learn through the mirror, when the circumstances and behaviors of others show us what we need to see. This story gives examples.

Finally, we learn through consciousness HERself.

When we are willing to be shown the energy imprints in our field along with what is possible, we can transcend the triple cycle of learning, moving into Unity. These imprints can be father~mother~family-position, or any other triple expression of consciousness we hold within us. It is the over-identification with a single aspect that skews results. Usually, an identification, conscious or unconscious, with what is impossible.

A transcendant alignment of consciousness can look like a three-armed spiral, the Triple Goddess, the Hindu Trimurti, or any other triune aspect of divinity used as tutelary. As the realization occurs that we are each of these aspects and more, we learn. Source can play any role through us as needed.

Whether these stages occur in a linear manner or in our own unique dance of experience is ours to choose. The mystery of manifestation unfolds in threes.

What is your energy axis of ‘three’? Today, it is part of who you will be.

~ Blessed Be ~

“What you send out comes back times three.” ~ wiccan rede
Finding Your Truth in Your Inner Self
By: Deborah Baron
Tags: Inner Peace, Wisdom, Self, Wellbeing, God

I have met very few people, who do not recognize the space of truth within themselves, the piece of them that exists before form, that is always whole and perfect and never hurt by their thinking to the contrary or someone else's thinking to the contrary.

It can get difficult to hear that space sometimes since our ego thinking has the tendency to get so loud, trying so hard to protect us from something that is not. But that space is there nonetheless and most people recognize it, remember it when they are reminded.

In that space we feel good and we begin to remember who we truly are, before thought, before negative self-talk, before insecurity or opinions of others.

When we find that space again, become re-acquainted with it, we once again tune into our inner voice; and many people, maybe most people, recognize that space as G-d, or Mind, or Wisdom.

When we touch that space and we begin to listen there instead of to the loud voice of personal thinking to which we have become accustomed, we can see that everything comes from that space.

Answers, yes, and desires as well.

And then we know, for sure, that G-d, or Mind, or Wisdom, has always been there for us and we can let go and be there for G-d.

The ultimate act of letting go in order to be there for ourselves. ❤
The Weekly 3, 2, One (3 Tiny Things, 2 Quotes, and One Last Thought)
By: Marc W. Crayton
Tags: Wisdom, Stoicism, Habits

3 Tiny Temperance Things

Temperance, one of the four Stoic virtues…

Moderation in action; Moderation in thought; Moderation in feeling.

2 Quotes

“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.”-Ralph Waldo Emerson

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”-Eleanor Roosevelt

One Last Thought

You can always learn something new from your mistakes. However, you must put your ego aside and choose to learn from each mistake. Otherwise, you will be doomed to repeat them.
Be Yourself And The Right People Will Find You
By: Incite Coaching
Tags: Connection, Wisdom, Strive, Right People, Focus

Be Yourself And The Right People Will Find You

Cheers to the beauty of staying in your own lane! When it comes to surrounding yourself with the right people, the best thing you can do is let people come to you. Rather than trying to focus on getting “in” with a certain crowd or fitting into a certain lifestyle you strive for, focus on putting in hard work.

Why chase people, when you can chase your goals? Put in effort every day toward becoming the best version of yourself, and you’re sure to attract people who are doing the same.

Whether you’re looking to start your own business, run a full marathon, or write a novel — the best way to get there is to put in effort day by day. Along the way, you’ll discover people who are doing the same (or who have reached the level you’re reaching for!)

These people are part of your tribe. Learn what you can from them, share your own wisdom, and grow together! It’s much better than simply looking the part.

Remember that the most important part of success is the journey you take to get there. There are no shortcuts in this; you’re in it for the long haul. Let go of the idea that you need to know certain people or be part of a certain crowd to reach success. Connections are important, of course, but they should feel genuine. That can only happen when you’re genuinely on the same level as those you feel the need to chase.

So work hard, every day. Set SMART goals for your personal success, and take a step toward reaching them. Don’t worry about other people; if they’re meant for you, they’ll find you — and stay.
What I Learned From Reading 100 Books in 1 Year
By: Aleks Mitrovic
Tags: Books, Learning, Wisdom, Reading, Knowledge

I’d like to begin by assuring you that this article will be void of the hoopla that often comes with articles of this nature. You know, the ones that scream “I read a lot and you should too!” I find this approach to be snobbish, and I’ve made sure to make no room for it in the article below.

However, it would be dishonest of me to withhold the fact that my thinking, reasoning ability, and understanding of the world have all been raised to much higher levels than ever before because of extensive reading.

It’s cliché, but it did change my life.

And for that reason I’ve compiled a list of the most valuable lessons that I’ve learned from reading 100 books in the past 12 months. These lessons are broad in nature, and do not include the specific teachings of any one single book. A list of that kind that would call for a much longer read.

Ultimately, the aim of this piece is to open up a channel for future dialogue on the topic of reading, and to continue to pay back my karmic debt to those who’ve helped me incessantly push myself to my limits and beyond. If it just so happens that there is other insight to be gleaned from a few of the ideas below, all the better :)
Taste
By: Heidi Zuckerman
Tags: Connection, Wisdom, Government, Art, Architecture

Taste

Margaret Thatcher said there are some battles that you have to fight more than once in order to win. As an undergraduate I designed and completed an individualized major in modern revolutions. I would pick a historical period and study not only history, but also the literature and the art. It is helpful to know about totalitarianism, authoritarianism, socialism, and what predicated modern revolutions. I put family first. Then art. And this morning I woke up truly agitated by the Executive Order on federal architecture. I have had the honor and privilege of as serving as a peer reviewer for the GSA and look forward to a future opportunity to serve our country by bringing the art and architecture of our time to our people.

Thom Mayne’s Federal Building in San Francisco is iconic. It serves as a key landmark for justice and American values. The battle to bring a respect for contemporary art and architecture to the widest possible audience, and especially to those in positions of power to influence how and what others see, will continue until won.
How To Not Get Attached To The Things And People
By: Vishal Kataria
Tags: Life Lessons, Self Improvement, Wisdom, Life, Mindfulness

Can your attachment to your thoughts make you do things you’ll regret for the rest of your life?

This question lies at the heart of the 1996 film, Primal Fear.

Martin Vail, a defense attorney who loves the spotlight, takes up a case to defend 19-year-old altar boy Aaron Stampler, who is charged with murdering an influential Catholic Archbishop. (Spoilers ahead.)

As the trial begins, Vail discovers that the Archbishop sexually abused and videotaped Aaron and other children. When he confronts Aaron about it, the latter breaks down and suddenly transforms into a sociopath named “Roy” who confesses to murdering the Archbishop and threatens Vail.

The psychiatrist examining Aaron witnesses the entire event and diagnoses Aaron with dissociative identity disorder, caused by years of physical abuse at the hands of the Archbishop.

This reinforces Vail’s belief that Aaron is innocent. He goes to dangerous lengths to prove Aaron’s condition in the courthouse and succeeds. Then he visits Aaron to inform him that he’ll be checked into a medical facility instead of a prison.

But as Vail is leaving, Aaron admits he faked his personality disorder. He brags about murdering the Archbishop and another girl. When Vail asks if there ever was a “Roy”, he replies that “there never was an ‘Aaron.’”

Vail walks away, stunned and disillusioned. But he knows he can blame nobody but himself.

All along, he had dismissed people’s suggestions that Aaron (or Roy) was a killer. Because subconsciously, he bet the whole house on being right on Aaron‘s’ innocence. To the extent that he endangered the lives of people who cared about him to prove it.

The truth about Vail goes deeper. He unknowingly attached his identity to the case. He saw himself as a winner. And to win the case, he had to prove Aaron innocent. As a result, he blindly bought into a false story.
Little Steps
By: Ruks Moreea
Tags: Covid 19, Wisdom, Change, Pandemic, Spirituality

Photograph by Author: Prada Heaven in Heavenly Geneva

We learn in little steps. As babies, we learn to put one little chubby foot in front of another, ideally holding mummy’s hand for security. Eventually, we let go of her warm hands but want her around as a warm safety blanket, never too close but close enough

We take small steps as we learn at school and beyond. We take small steps as we develop our independence, to express our wants and needs and make ourselves heard in society. We make small steps to change and hopefully improve to become better versions of ourselves. Collectively, this is what drives changes in society. A refusal to be dominated, a shout to be heard, a rejection of imposed past sale-by ideals, a quest for reformation.

Are we at this stage in our human and societal evolution? A peaceful revolution with pacific marches and a humble request for change, a silent yet loud fight against tyranny? 2020 is the year of mourning, the year of grieving as we grieve our old selves. I cannot expect anything too different for 2021, but we will continue to see changes within ourselves. How we perceive the changes is entirely up to us, but I do hope and pray that many of us do not fall into further despair and anxiety. Little steps, for the wiser us.

This pandemic will be over, sooner rather than later, perhaps not as early as 2021, but we would have built enough mental and physical resilience by then. In spite of imminent lockdowns, we are already in a better place, as we are becoming more aware of the importance of self-care and self-love. Baby steps, little step, gentle steps. Nonetheless, this pandemic has left a major mark on us. No one comes out of this ‘portal’ unscathed somehow, we would have undergone major changes against our own expectations or will. Nonetheless, I hope we continue to shine a light for one another, be kind to one another and to ourselves. I hope that our ability to truly love becomes stronger. I hope we are able to trust again, I hope we are able to be our true selves and learn who and what is most important for us.

I hope we learn to live in non-attachment, to no longer expect and surrender to life itself. I pray for no suffering. Suffering only comes when we expect too much from ourselves and from one another. Collectively, our little steps can make us stronger for the better.
Wisdom doesn’t come with age, it comes with self work
By: Natasha Sniehirova
Tags: Learning, Wisdom, Self Improvement, Experience, Age

Age is the number of years of opportunities and experiences you have had to learn from.

But, there’s always a but. Having many opportunities and experiences to learn from and actually doing so are two different things.

You have to want to learn stuff from those experiences. And learning stuff means that some of what you did before was wrong and you need to accept your mistakes and then figure out how to apply what you learned.

Meaning, wisdom comes with self work.

Unfortunately, many people consider self work as “hard” and they simply don’t want to be bothered to make the effort. And so they usually get more and more stuck inside old patterns.

So don’t assume that because someone is in their 50s or 60’s, they are automatically wiser than you. Wisdom is not automatic and it doesn’t just appear without a reason at a certain age. It always depends on the amount of self work people have done.
The Wisdom we need
By: Zsolt Hermann
Tags: Wisdom, Education, Nature, Life, Love

Question from the Internet:

“What are easy ways to become wise and not worry about things?”

In order to acquire such Wisdom that we stop worrying about anything, we need to attain Nature’s perfect, infinite Wisdom that reveals all the cause and effect processes, and Nature’s evolutionary plan with our role in it.

Then we would understand that whatever happens is all programs the most ideal for us to reach everything we need to reach.

In order to attain Nature’s perfect Wisdom we need to become similar to Nature, acquiring it’s qualities of selfless altruism, unconditional service of others and the whole system.

When we become seamlessly integrated elements, “cogwheels” of the system, then its whole life-force, energy will flow through us to others and we will encompass, understand everything effortlessly.

https://youtu.be/Iin2T0PsL4w
A Letter To My Grandkids Leaving For College
By: Dan Crothers
Tags: Kids, Wisdom, Children, Advice, Life

As you step out into the world with a life of adventure before you, you need to know this one thing — you’re going to be ok.

There will be times where you feel like you can’t take it anymore and it’s the end of the world.

There will be times so amazing, you wonder how you were so lucky to be given a life to experience it.

There will be people you meet that will break your heart and make you feel like not enough. But there will also be people that lift you up and make you want to be a better person. And there will be a special few that will make you feel fortunate to have met them before you died.

Friends will come and go. You will outgrow them or they will outgrow you. You will lose people that are close.

Sometimes you will feel like you’re growing and sometimes you’ll feel like you’re stuck. You might get sick and die at the age of 43 or you might live to be 102.

You might travel the world or you might never leave the town you were born in.

You will be amazed, hurt, empowered, dejected, horrified, angry, indignant, righteous, joyous, crushed, and loved. And through all that you need to know one thing — you’re going to be ok.

The sun will rise again. The world will keep spinning and this too shall pass. The good, the bad, and the in-between — you’re going to be ok.

How do I know this? Because you’ve always been ok. You might be starting a new life away from the only home you’ve ever known, but you have already experienced much of what I’ve already said. And here you stand, still in one piece.

You don’t have to have life figured out at 28, or 35, or 60, or 102…if you make it that far. Here’s a secret, nobody has figured it out. We’re all just doing the best we can with what we’ve got.

Life is beautifully messy.

Here’s another secret that might help you through the messiness. It’s all in your head. Whatever way you think about a situation is how you experience it. Your perception is your reality. So if you can change the way you think about someone or something, you will change your experience of it.

This includes whatever you believe YOU are capable of. You have more potential in you that you can possibly imagine. And all you have to do to release that potential is take the first step into the abyss. You might free fall for a while but I promise you, at some point, you will grow wings and fly.

You’ve been stepping out into the abyss your whole life and haven’t realized it. When you took your first step, met a new friend, played a new sport, or had your first kiss.

You went through all that and then some and here you stand all in one piece because you’re going to be ok.

Take that in. Feel your okay-ness. Know that your experience is completely based on your thoughts about your experience. And when it gets rough out there…because it will, know that you have always been and will forever be ok.
Responsibility
By: Heidi Zuckerman
Tags: Life, Wisdom, Connect, Love, Art

Responsibility

I want to be responsible to and for everything about everyone that I love, but I am not and I can’t be. I can just listen and trust myself with the knowledge that I have in the moment. This morning I read that good decisions come from experience and that experience comes from making bad decisions. The complicated part is that we don’t always know which are which until we have the benefit of time. If, however, one believes that everything is always exactly as it is supposed to be, then the volume of self judgment can get turned down.

I love early Mark Rothko paintings because in them you can see his efforts to find what he seeks, to give form to what he knows he needs to share. They are the art equivalent of coddiwompling, moving with a purposeful intention toward a vague destination. Each decision we make is an essential part of that journey.
Radiant Star
By: Nalini Macnab
Tags: Solstice, Wisdom, Sacred Feminine, Divine Mother, Alignment

Radiant Star

Photo by Alex Gindin on Unsplash

Silence. Peace. Enfolding depths of gentleness.

Unconditional all-encompassing radiance.

The soft power of the All

from which each question has its inception and its answers.

Robed and cloaked SHE emerges

from the radiant, comforting, deepest-azure depths.

Silent, dreaming worlds into being,

SHE stands/rests/IS.

Parting HER robe,

a star tetrahedron gleams its intricacies

of form and formlessness

into time and space

through the Radiant opening of HER heart.

HER heart exposed, as alignments shift and change.

Ever radiating lines of light,

alignments of esssence,

so pristine, HER celestial emanations,

forming each geometric configuration of manifestation,

and welcoming each home once more.

Crystalline perfection are HER gossamer strands.

Ever more complex and ever simpler

the Great Weaving breathes and thrives.

“Am I not your Mother?” the silence shapes HER whisper.

“What is this truth? Who are you? Mother Mary or Magdalena? Isis, Tara, the Shekinah, or Saraswati-Lakshmi-Parvati? Can the Source of Infinite creation bear a singular name?”

“What makes you perceive these as separate?”

HER kaleidoscope continued to re-configure

as knowing followed laughter.

I AM that which you ask me to BE.

The fastest way to know everything is to become no-thing in particular.

A Blessed Solstice,

~ Namaste ~
An Ordinary Pencil Power Click
Tags: Motivation, Self Improvement, Wisdom, Inspiration, Beyourself

One day, I was watching my grandmother writing a letter. At one point, I ask her, “Are you writing a story about what we did. Will this be a story about us?”

My grandmother stopped writing her letter and said, “I’m writing about you. What’s more important than the words in this letter is the pencil with which I’m writing. I hope you’ll like this pencil when you grow up.”

I looked at the pencil with interest. It doesn’t look like a special pencil; however, my grandma said to me, “It depends on how you look at things. There are five morals to this pencil. If you learn how to understand them, you will turn into a person who will always be at peace.”

The morals I learned from our conversation follows:

First Moral: One can do great things; however, one must not forget an unseen guiding hand. It’s called the hand of God, and He always guides in the right direction.

Second Moral: I have to stop writing and use a pencil sharpener, which initially broke the pencil’s point. The sharpener eventually worked well, and the pencil turned out okay. This incident’s moral is that a person may experience difficulty before things turned out the way envisioned.

Third Moral: The pencil allows us to use its eraser to erase mistakes. This process signifies mistakes can be erased and corrections made. Virtually, bad deeds are wiped away and replaced with good ones; thus, allowing balance in one’s life.

Fourth Moral: An essential principle to learn from this experience with the pencil is not the outside wood that counts It’s the lead inside. Likewise, a person’s character is more important than what’s on the outside.

Fifth Moral: The pencil may leave a mark each time. Essentially, this is the same way one should realize the things done in life will also leave a mark; therefore, it’s essential to be mindful of one’s actions.

This conversation with my grandmother was essential. The knowledge gained from conversing with one’s elders is priceless.

Like what you’re reading? You’ll love Buibui — Have you tried reading from there lately? Click here to learn more
Funny yet Profound Aphorisms (“Quotes”) #99
By: Mokokoma Mokhonoana
Tags: Quotes, Satire, Aphorisms, Quotations, Wisdom

Below are HALF of aphorisms of mine that I have published at least 5 WEEKS ago. Subscribe to my mailing list if you want to receive my NEW aphorisms, via EMAIL, a MONTH *before* I share them here 🧠
Another home run, Joel.
By: Bob Wuest
Tags: Wisdom, Health, Body, Self, Wellbeing

Permanent American expat. Personal growth junkie. Spiritual activist. Enthusiastic hiker. Cheerleader for the best in you, and me. More at http://bit.ly/3aBjVOq
Who am I?
Tags: Self Improvement, Wisdom, Self Love, Self-awareness, Knowledge

I don’t know. I don’t know what to do, how to do, when to do, why to do, do it for who, where to go. How do I know all these?. I can’t even tell what I want right now. I don’t remember when my wishes used to make sense, but now there is no desire to do anything new and exiting. How do I know that I have a future to fullfil, I have a dream to live, I have a responsibility to complete. How do I know What makes my future, what makes my desire, What makes me?. Who am I?. Not my name, not my state of being, but who am I? I am no one, I was one when I had a dream, I was one when I desired, I was one when I cried. But know, who am I? I am a human with a heart, with a brain. I am same like other humans, whose mind clashes with brain, but eventually the brain wins. I am happy because the brain won, but I’m sad because it thinks with periodic harmones. Those harmones change with the surrounding, change with the scenes, but I feel We should follow our heart, it doesn’t change with the external factors, rather internal pain. It doesn’t stop it’s responsibility till death. Heart may have lost, but without it there isn’t a human.

How do you know what you want?. How do you know what you are?. What makes you different?

You are as same as me. But are you ambitious?. Do you have faith in you?. Do you know? Then how do YOU know what you are?. I feel down. I feel frustrated. I feel tensed. I want to live the life I want. I want to live. I have a promise to keep. I have a smile to share. I have a pain to cry. I have a life to look after, Without it vanishes, without me it isn’t worth. Without me it is merely a hope. Without me it waits till dawn. What if I won’t return? What if I lost. What if I die? What if my soul dries out? What if? Do you have courage to face me? Do you have a boat to sail? DO you?
BEST QUOTES I READ TODAY :
Tags: Spiritual Growth, Quotes, Wisdom, Thoughts, Best Of

BEST QUOTES I READ TODAY :

"The best among you is the one who doesn't harm others with his tongue and hands". -PROPHET MUHAMMAD (SAW)-

"He who has in his heart the weight of a mustard seed of pride shall not enter paradise". -PROPHET MUHAMMAD (SAW)-

“The best of people are those that bring most benefit to the rest of mankind.”

"You will die the way you lived". -PROPHET MUHAMMAD (SAW)-

"Sell your cleverness and buy bewilderment." -RUMI-

"The merit in action lies in finishing it to end". -GENGHIS KHAN-

……………………………………

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The World Never Stops Long Enough
By: Bruce Noll
Tags: Wisdom, Haiku, Life, Peace, Poetry

I am finding a place within that is beginning to accept the concepts of change, movement, and wisdom. These elements of the cycle of life embrace another element of living wisdom…collaboration.

Often, there are times when these elements collide and magic happens, and when there is an intention to collaborate as well, there is a divine revelation of the mystery of life known as collective wisdom.

This collective wisdom is always available to us all. Once we have felt the pull of its almost hypnotic allure, we know we are home, present with the universal lagniappe offered when we plant a spirit of lifelong learning.

Blessings to all on your journey through stillness, and motion. May your energy be in motion and your soul still, at peace!
Is This Hard Enough?
By: Vandini Sharma
Tags: Life Lessons, Wisdom, Memories, Childhood, Poetry

You asked me if things were hard enough

When we first tried to write an article together

To Reader’s Digest at the age of 12.

And you asked me if things were hard enough

When we stayed up all night

The night before the maths final exam

To woozily memorise every single formula

And jam out to weirdly catchy Youtube algebra songs.

You asked me if things were hard enough

When our best friends hurt themselves

And all our counselling seemed powerless to stop them.

And you asked me if things were hard enough

Every time you got up with a mic in front of hundreds of eyes

To ask a thoughtful question.

You asked me if things were hard enough

When your heart pound hard enough to burst

When you were 15, running in a 10 kilometre marathon.

And you asked me if things were hard enough

After our literature essays were ripped to pieces

By your knowledgeable, wry tutor

Or when there were piano keys you couldn’t memorise

Loneliness you couldn’t fight through or

Lethargy you couldn’t break

Writing hundreds of pages

For a novel that still seemed impossible to complete

You asked me if things were hard enough.

Well guess what, little one

We got through each one of those baubles of life

Through each bump on the road

Laughing brightly on the other side.

Haven’t you already realised something yet?

Well please get it now.

I am your best friend.

I exist within you, as you

And I am not giving up on you.

So don’t ask me if things are hard enough

Because they never truly are

They just need to be broken down with a hammer

So you can digest them piece by piece

Put them together like a jigsaw

Because it’s not half as fearsome, broken down like that

It can be done, you realise

It can be done.

Once started, it’s already half done.

Yes it’s tiring, yes it takes endless hours

But process is the purpose

Process is the joy

Process is that memorable memory

Remember that, little one.
Is
By: Heidi Zuckerman
Tags: Connection, Wisdom, Life, Love, Art

Is

Life is good. We can surprise ourselves with what we can hear and know if we can be open to unexpected insight. Last night a few thoughts came into my head and I allowed myself to hear them, to repeat them over and over. And as I did I knew they were true. They were not what I expected, nor something that I would traditionally allow myself to believe, but by listening without judgment everything that was contained within those words changed and thus did my life. I read this morning that courage takes many forms, sometimes it’s loud and brash and frontal, taking no prisoners, other times it’s quiet and subtle and it’s only about giving ourselves the chance to listen a little bit differently.

Jack Pierson has long been one of my favorite artists. He made a series of assemblages during the quarantine. During this time we have had an opportunity to look at what and who we have chosen to surround ourselves by and with and learn more about what works and what doesn’t. Some of those answers are unexpected but when we listen well we can hear what actually is.
Go For It!
By: Rj Regan
Tags: Hope, Leadership, Motivation, Wisdom, Development

“Bocastle, Cornwall” watercolor created by J.M.W. Turner

Author, Dr. Norman Vincent Peale said, “Enthusiasm makes the difference.”

Well, maybe.

If you’re an enthusiastic idiot, you’ll do a lot more damage than if you were lazy.

But, I’d rather have an enthusiastic and motivated idiot than a bum. It’s kind of like having a motorboat without a rudder. Yes, the boat will go in crazy directions, all over the lake and likely crash into the rocks at some point, but at least it’s moving. Once we outfit the boat with a rudder and a good compass, that boat can go anywhere and literally make some waves!

The bum on the other hand is like a boat without a motor. He could have the best compass and rudder of all the maritime ships, but he won’t be going anywhere.

No, give me the “motor-man” and you can keep the bum.

Did you know that enthusiasm comes from the Greek words “en” which means “in” or “within” and “theos” meaning “God.” So, enthusiasm literally means “God within you.”

King Solomon told his son, “The spirit of man is the lamp of the LORD, Searching all the innermost parts of his being.[1]

So, maybe Dr. Peale was right. God within you, or enthusiasm, does make the difference. We all have the Spirit of God within us. We are all divine creatures. The question really comes down to how bright your lamp is and where do you keep it?

Some people nurture and grow the lamp so it is white hot and it can be witnessed through their motivation and activity. Others smother the lamp and do things to diminish the light by even going so far as putting it under a table.

Ask, what feeds your spirit and kindles the flame of enthusiasm?

Dwell on those things, turn up the heat and brighten your day with enthusiasm! It really does make the difference. And when you crash into the rocks, (which you will) pick yourself up, dust yourself off, check your compass and your rudder, and then get back at it.

Opportunity mixed with difficulty; that’s life. That’s my life, that’s your life, that’s everyone’s life. So be the captain of your ship and sail to a land of your desire. If it is to be, it up to you, and you can do it.

You do have what it takes and you are better than you think you are. Go for it!

[1] Proverbs 20:27
Soul e o sentir
By: Gabriel Vinicius
Tags: Disney, Soul, Pixar, Animação, Sentimentos

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Soul (2020): A Flawed Recapturing of Pixar’s Soul
By: Tang Wee-Boon
Tags: Animation, Disney, Soul, Pixar, Jazz

Some time around the late 2000s, Pixar Animation Studios ceased to be the “can’t do no wrong” auteurs that produced thought-provoking hits after hits. Somewhere along the line, it lost its soul and was reduced to being just another movie studio. And so, the world watched as we awaited the day when Pixar returns to form. Perhaps it’s due to this vigilance that imbues in us an extra layer of stringency in our criticisms.

Ironically, the protagonist of Soul, Joe Gardner (Jamie Foxx), is very much like Pixar studios. He recognizes the craft, he knows it like the back of his hand, but he doesn’t really understand the inner beauty of the music, the soul of jazz that embraces someone with the joys of life. He’s too caught up in the technicality of the craft, too focused on textbook methods that make jazz function properly.

That’s what Pixar movies have been for the past decade, and even now in 2020, it’s my opinion that Pixar hasn’t returned to its peak yet. That cat comedy schtick, man, it really took away from what could’ve been the movie of my dreams, the one that I envisioned when I first watched the teaser to the film and what potential it could have as a story. But instead, we get fairly generic comedy routines stagnating the middle parts of the film instead of focusing on Joe and 22 (Tina Fey)’s enjoyment of everyday life. I wouldn’t mind watching an entire arc of that stuff. Act 2 of the film just wasn’t as potent as it should be due to its reliance on tired comedy routines when it could’ve just been an entire slice-of-life sequence celebrating the mundanities of “regular ol’ living.”

But then comes Act 3, the final part of our tale, when Joe realizes what he has missed out or possibly forgotten in life, those very simple joys we take for granted: a new haircut, company with your dad, enjoying the morning breeze on a bike, sunrise, fireworks… and of course, the joy of opening a student’s eyes to the wonders of life. You start to see during the final parts of the film what it should’ve been all along. You start to see what it could’ve been.

And if that’s not tragic enough, I didn’t really like the final scene either. I feel like a stronger ending would’ve been Joe being led to his teaching career again, bookending the story with where he started as he learns to appreciate the simple things. As it is, the movie just feels unfinished, like an unpolished draft.

To be clear, I think that 70% of the movie was well done. If you just cut out that 30% of comedy filler and focused more on building the atmosphere as Joe and 22 ride through the joys (and perhaps even the pains) of life, that would’ve been a stronger story. As it is, it’s just another animated movie.

Final Rating: 7/10
Movie Review — Soul : Purpose, passion and Life in the most refreshing way possible
By: The Recovering Reviewer
Tags: Movies, Disney, Soul, Pixar, Movie Review

Image Credits : Disney Pixar

This is my third movie and hence the third review for the day, a carefully regimented recovery program that implores me to write about every movie that I watch and share on the “InterWeb”

Now the movie — because that is what we are here about is refreshingly a very honest and upbeat take on some of the most heavy questions that are out there — What is the purpose of life? Why do we exist? Are we fulfilling our purpose?

This movies takes all these heavy hitting questions and tosses them aside with the carefully written and tastefully animate story of “Joe” — a person who truly believes that music is the purpose of his life and “22” — a hypothetical construct of a being if we may call it/him/her that that is lost and scared like most of us going through life. The story takes on a journey through “The Great beyond” and “The Great Before” places where souls go after their journey on Earth is complete and the place where they start out. In not trying to explain more than this about the after in this case before life — the movie side steps a lot of complicated and unnecessary questions while focusing on the clear message that it wants to provide — “Life isn’t as complicated as we make it out to be”

Through the observer view that Joe finds himself in due to some mix-ups in the astral plane — Joe and through him the viewer find some solace in what a really complicated world of emotions, problems and ambitions. What is remarkable is that while I am talking about such important psychological questions but the movie still is at its objective level — “A cartoon movie” that this addicted writer found amply comforting.

In case you are thinking of watching this movie over the holidays or just when you need something to pick you up. This recovering addict can give this movie a solid recommendation as an “Upbeat Can watch”
Ratatouille is the best movie.
By: Ivy Summers
Tags: Film, Ratatouille, Movies, Disney

Ratatouille is the best movie.
Happy endings. That’s why I love Disney so much.
By: Gal Mux
Tags: Fairy Tale, Disney, Disney Channel, Happy Endings, Fairytalesforkids

Photo by Tu Nguyen on Pexels

Happy endings. That’s why I love Disney so much.

The hero wins and the villain gets defeated. Good triumphs over evil. The hero suffers in the process, but it’s all worth it in the end.

Even if your heart gets broken, and you cry in the course of the story, you know at the end of it you will smile. And your heart will be filled with joy again. I love happy endings. And that’s why I love Disney so much.
Walt Disney Company Assigns Luke KANG As Head Of Asia-Pacific, Excluding India
By: Asia Pacific
Tags: Disney, Marketing, Asia, India, China

The Banner of The Walt Disney Company Website

Source: Disney, Yahoo, Variety, MSN, Pitchonnet, internet

Luke KANG has been assigned president of the Walt Disney Company for the Asia-Pacific region, as a Disney veteran, he will report to Rebecca Campbell, chairman of international operations and direct-to-consumer, will oversee the company’s business in Australia/New Zealand, Greater China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. A new India head seems will be announced near the new year.

About 2 months ago, the company announced the departure of Uday Shankar, president of Disney Asia-Pacific and chairman of Star and Disney India, which becomes effective from Dec. 31.

Luke KANG

First joined Disney in 2011 as managing director for the company in South Korea, based in Seoul, Luke’s current role includes Disney’s media networks, direct-to-consumer offerings including Disney Plus, media distribution, and motion picture businesses, as well as other operations across Asia-Pacific, excluding Disney theme parks.

At present, he is executive VP and managing director of Disney for the North Asia grouping of Greater China, Japan, and Korea, with direct country management of mainland China and Japan.

Luke has been in his current position since a split of Disney’s Asia business into North and South divisions in April 2017, and then another reshuffle in April 2019 at which time Shankar promoted many of his Fox executives.

Rebecca Campbell

“With his deep understanding of our businesses in the Asia Pacific, Luke is ideally suited to lead our efforts in the region. He has played a critical role in transforming our business in Asia, optimizing operations, developing successful new revenue streams, and rapidly moving to roll out Disney Plus. I’m confident that he and our extended team will deliver even more value as we continue to manage and grow Disney’s DTC and media businesses in the region,” said Campbell in a statement.

At the beginning of 2021, Rebecca Campbell will name a separate India head, she made the announcement to staff. In the interim period, the India business will be headed by K Madhavan, head of Star, and Sunil Ryan, head of Disney Plus Hotstar India, with both reporting directly to her.
Five Christmas Films and Specials You Can Watch on Disney+ on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
By: Zach Perilstein
Tags: Disney Plus, Disney, Christmas, Editorial, Holiday

Five Christmas Films and Specials You Can Watch on Disney+ on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

TechNadu

Whether you are hanging with family or spending this Christmas Eve/Christmas alone. Boardwalk Times has you covered on what specials and films you should watch on Disney+.

High School Musical: The Musical: The Holiday Special

We get epic performances from the cast and the special even gives a special look at season two of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. Honestly, I think the cast of HSMTMTS should continue this holiday special tradition. We can never have enough holiday specials!

LEGO Star Wars Holiday Special

Another holiday special?

You’re darn right another holiday special. LEGO Star Wars Holiday Special is a hilarious special for Star Wars fans and it has plenty of story that will get you in the Life Day (Christmas) spirit. Plus, Boardwalk Times new series Boardwalk Times Easter Egg Hunt covered easter eggs and hidden details from the special.

The Muppet Christmas Carol

The hilarious spin on a true Christmas classic in the only way The Muppets could. The film is hilarious and a classic itself in my opinion.

The film is actually the first film produced by The Muppets after the deaths of Richard Hunt and Jim Henson. It’s also the first Muppets film distributed by Disney.

Mickey’s Twice Upon A Christmas

The film features five different segments with some of our favorite characters in CGI form for the first time. Check this one out if you’re nostalgic for the old design of Mickey Mouse and 2004 early CGI animation.

Godmothered

Yes, it’s a newer film but I think it’s a great holiday film to enjoy with the entire family. It reminds me of Disney films of old. It’s a fun-loving Disney Christmas comedy and Isla Fisher and Jillian Bell are absolutely hilarious.

Bonus: Non-Disney film “It’s A Wonderful Life”

I have to include this on the list. I don’t even care that it’s not Disney. If you haven’t already you have to watch It’s a Wonderful Life.

It’s streaming for free on Amazon Prime and heck I’m sure it will be on TV stations all over on Christmas Eve and Christmas. It’s easily one of my favorite Chistmas films and a bonafide classic.

Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life is one of the greatest films ever made. With epic performances from James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Henry Travers. It’s a great film and perfect for the holiday season.

Zach Perilstein is the Editor-in-Chief of the Boardwalk Times
影集《曼達洛人》(The Mandalorian) 第二季精彩收尾，Disney+ 是否能成功打造新的星戰宇宙
Tags: Star Wars, Movies, Disney, Television, The Mandalorian

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Make Medium yours. Follow the writers, publications, and topics that matter to you, and you’ll see them on your homepage and in your inbox. Explore
Did Walt Disney create Mickey Mouse?
By: Jacob Vandersluys
Tags: History, Disney, Facts, Life

Did Walt Disney create Mickey Mouse in the 1928 short, Steamboat Willie? Mickey Mouse was created by Ubbe Eert “Ub” Iwerks. Although he is considered a cocreator, Walt stated Ub created the famous Disney character. Ub even animated Mickey Mouse’s first official cartoon, Steamboat Willie.

Ub was forgotten because he was simply too shy to promote himself. I say that Steamboat Willie was Mickey Mouse’s official debut because the character first appeared in Plane Crazy and The Gallopin’ Gaucho several months prior. These animated shorts didn’t do well because Mickey came across as a jerk rather than the lovable character we know him as today. Disney heavily revised the character for Steamboat Willie and Mickey’s legacy was born.

So, it turns out that the understanding that Walt Disney created Mickey Mouse is — well, not entirely true…