Angie's Diary

Nick’s Favorite Toys

ASF — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 05:21:59 +0000

Nick's Favorite Toys

A little boy who loved his collection of soldiers was no longer a little boy. Now a grown man it was time for him to give his playthings away. Very reluctantly, he took the cardboard box that sat half-full of his favorite playthings over to the little boy who lived next door. “Oh wow! Cool!” The boy said gleefully as he peeked inside the brown box. Slowly, he grinned, revealing a mouth full of chipped teeth. “You're welcome, little one,” the man replied sadly as he turned to walk away. He needed to leave quickly before he changed his mind. “Take care of them.” Quickly, the little boy took the box, ran up the stairs of his home towards his room, and slammed his door shut with a thud. Standing in the middle of his floor, he emptied the box out, and out fell all the soldiers. There were soldiers dressed in green fatigues, black fatigues, and even blue. The man had even given him soldiers with the Kung-Fu grip feature. The little boy was amazed at how many there were. For a few minutes, he sat in awe and admired them. Until... “Nick,” a woman's voice called; it was most likely his mother. Mu-ah ha ha... you've been saved, for now, he whispered to a soldier he had picked up from the pile as he tossed him down and ran out the room. As the door closed behind him... not a single soldier could remain calm. “Oh no, boys! We're not in Kansas anymore!” one said, being slightly sarcastic. “Hush, soldier, this isn't the time! That kid may just be crazy!” “Yeah, Boss, why did we get left here?” “I don't know … but I don't like it!” “We've got to find a way out of here!” The soldiers were beside themselves. They gathered in a small corner and met to decide what to do. “Well, you all know it's against our code to leave a kid behind. It looks like we're gonna have to just sit this out. It can't be that bad?” said the Sergeant. “I mean, he is just a boy! What could be the worst that happens?” The opportunity to discuss anything further ended abruptly. Sure enough, Nick was heard making his way back up the stairs. Nick went straight to the pile of the now lifeless soldiers and grabbed at a handful of them. In horror, those that remained behind watched as Nick dressed their soldier bodies up in brightly colored, tight-fitting Ken clothes. He had surely snatched them from his twin sister Nicole. When Nick began driving them around for a ride in the pink Barbie dream car, the soldiers were at a loss, with no hope for their dear friends. Poor guys, they thought. Hang in there! They hoped. The code to being a great toy to a human meant that you could never let a human become aware of your true existence. So the soldiers could do nothing but watch as little Nick tossed the hand full of soldiers in the three-story pink Barbie dream house across the hall later that night. Nick had apparently left his bedroom door open, allowing them all to see everything. But just as they thought the coast was clear enough for them to go and have a word with their friends possibly, Nick came stammering into his room, closing his door behind him. He climbed into his bed and quickly fell asleep. It took only moments for the soldiers to spring into action. But the closer they looked, the more they realized escape wouldn't be easy. There were two windows on the wall. Both of them were closed. A breeze slowly crept in from a ceiling vent, which was way too high. As the soldiers looked around for different ways to get out, one soldier, a tall, bearded soldier wearing green fatigues, poked his head under the door. “Hey...! You guys? Come hear this...!” His inquiries caught the attention of soldier after soldier, and within minutes they were all lined up at the door. “Why them?” “What do you think is going on in there?” “You know, this isn't fair!” “We gotta get outta here,e guys!” “…........Um?” Their questions went on and on. Little Nick hadn't bothered to look at them once. Not once had he tried to include them in any of the fun the other soldiers seemed to be having. And now, instead of being focused on trying to escape, they had begun to bring attention to themselves! Nick coughed and sat up quickly. His eyes were a bit hazy, but still, he scanned the room. It was the middle of the night, and everything was still quiet and at a standstill. The moon lit the dark sky and shone brightly through his windows onto his bed. A glint caught his eye, and for a moment, he stared at it. Immediately, the soldiers who had been watching the little boy's every move ran back to the middle of the floor and resumed their places. Little Nick stayed up in bed and looked up at the moon for a few more moments just before settling himself and quickly returning to his peaceful slumber. As morning came, there was only one thing on the twins' minds as they woke up: it was Saturday. Sitting up in his bed, Nick yelled down towards the kitchen, “Hey Ma, is breakfast ready yet?” “N,o baby, not yet …a couple minutes!” she responded. Excited, Nick jumped out of bed, stretched, and ran into his sister's room. “Wanna play?” “Okay!” she answered. The twins played and laughed. It was fun. In horror, however, the soldiers who sat in the pile across the way in Nick's room could do nothing more but watch. They saw the other soldiers dining with the Barbies; they watched the twins take them on the shopping sprees, and then... the twins drove the soldiers along with the Barbies in a long stretch limousine back into little Nick's room, where the two children set up a plastic movie theater set and allowed the group to enjoy a drive-in movie. The soldiers in the pile felt as though they couldn't take it anymore, but there was nothing they could do. Nick still hadn't tried to come and play with either of them. “... Okay, you two, the food is ready. Come on and eat!” their mom called out to them. Immediately, they did as they were told. As soon as they were out of sight, the soldiers in the pile jumped out of position, and one by one they approached the lively dolls, paying no mind to what was happening outside the vehicle. As one soldier tapped on the window, another soldier was already opening a door to the limousine. “Hey! It's you guys!” he said. His attitude was very lackadaisical. He wore brown khakis and a blue cardigan. His frame made him look more buff than the Ken doll, and Barbie was very fond of how he looked. It wasn't hard to tell at all; there were quite a few of them hanging around the area and in the waiting limo. As he spoke, three more soldiers poked their heads out as well. They were dressed pretty much the same way. “Those kids have no idea how to dress someone! Look at how they look, Sarge! “Shh! Now hold on, let me handle this!” “Now you guys need to come on now! Where are your brothers? We can figure out a way to get out of here! Go on, get your things, put your real clothes back on, say goodbye to these… ladies,” he nodded his head as more Barbies had begun to come around closer to the scene and check out the soldiers in the uniforms. But before he could continue,ue he was cut off. “Hold on now, hold on... we ain't going anywhere, now are we, guys?” One of the soldiers shouted back. It caused the rest of the soldiers that had been picked out of the pile to yell in unison. Their voices sounded heated. They definitely were not trying to leave their newfound way of life. Even the Barbies joined in the shouting. The other group of soldiers immediately knew they had lost their pals. For a moment, silence fell over the entire group. Then, suddenly, came the undeniable uproar of little footsteps coming up the stairs. The twins were done with breakfast. The group of soldiers from the pile ran back as fast as they could and assumed position, as did all the other Barbies and soldiers who were left in various playing positions throughout the room. However, to everyone's surprise, as the door swung open, it was Nick and the man from next door. “Ha! I see you have quite the imagination,” the man said to the boy when he took notice of the soldiers in the Ken clothes. “Yeah, I was playing with my sister.” “...And what about these guys?” the man asked as he looked over at the pile of soldiers in the middle of the floor. “Oh, them, I don't know.” “Let me show you what to do with these... young boys,” the man said. He grabbed a bunch of the soldiers and leaped behind a table as if he were in battle. Little Nick picked a few up himself and quickly joined in. For hours, the two played war, hostage takeover and even participated in battling each other as if nothing else in the world mattered. It wasn't long before Nicole had even joined in the fun. And this time, the soldiers who wouldn't return to be a part of the team and even the Barbies who instigated had to watch in agony. Evening was upon them, and all fun had been had, so little Nick and Nicole walked the man toward their door to say goodbye. “Can we play again?” asked Nicole. “That was fun.” Nick said. “... No, you two, that was it! I simply came to show you ... each soldier could be a favorite one! Give them each a chance to shine; they're your toys now, but they were mine once. I promise you they can be your favorite toy too ...just give it some time!” And just like that, he turned to walk away. Nicole looked at her brother, confused. “What does that mean?” “I don't know sis; he told me to take care of them. That was the first thing he said.” Nick looked his sister in the eye. As they closed the front door, Nick ran up the stairs to his room. He grabbed an empty plastic bin that sat near the radiator. Gently, he began placing each soldier inside. One by one, he also claimed the soldiers who were tossed back into the Barbie dream house and carefully re-dressed in their original fatigue outfits. Once finished, he placed them into the bin as well. As the last one went inside, he closed it and pushed the bin into his closet. Without anything else to do, he looked upon the bin sitting in the middle of his walk-in closet. He also let his eyes wander upon the many toys he had been given so far. His nerve gun from his Aunt Joan. He took Sam from his uncle Kurt and many others. So far, nothing had caught his attention the way his soldiers did. Yet, just as the man predicted, days went by, and Nick continued to play with only his soldiers. Surely enough, we can say they had become his favorite toys!

DNA: Your Best Friend and Worst Enemy

Joyce White — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 13:12:35 +0000

DNA: Your Best Friend and Worst Enemy

“Life is not the way it’s supposed to be; it’s the way it is. The way you cope is what makes the difference,” advises Virginia Satir, family therapist and guru. We live in a chronological envelope with many personalities, many assets, many innate talents, and many vulnerabilities due to our family’s genes. I get my curiosity and ability to make rings from my late pops. When he was alive and active, most of us thought he was crazy, as he was always inventing new ways to make things. He once made a fan for his bed by using old parts from a vacuum. He also made a heater for the front room out of a washing machine. I was always embarrassed as a child. As an adult, I am proud because I now know he was an artist and inventor, like myself now. I have been making what I call Picasso rings that are one-of-a-kind and beautiful for years. Like him, I love working with metals; only my female genes want me to make one-of-a-kind rings.

Genes Turning On and Off

I am also proud of my late mom, who was obsessed with sewing and reading romance. She had stacks of dusty romance magazines on a table in her bedroom. As a teenager, I always thought she should write her books, but she was not endowed with the passion for writing - just reading. That is the gene thing turning on and off with each generation, despite what we would prefer. My grandparents were both teachers. I think I got more of their genes than Mom's. I write nonfiction with an expository writing style. The Expository seeks to explain and inform, like teaching. I also write prose poetry that seeks to describe what makes me - me.

Turning into Mom Poem

I hear my mom’s voice many mornings when I roll out of bed, her eyes looking back at me in a mirror, both of us crying a little. It was our habit to look back at minutes, weeks, months, or years gone by when we were forced to keep going, instead of enjoying each other; when we sat eye-to-eye, we were estranged, waiting for our bodies to stop hurting. Our minds to stop accusing and excusing. Still, now that she is deceased, I try to simplify my twisted feelings by trying to forgive and forget, and remember that our anger at the world did not compromise our love for each other. I hope we are never predisposed to judge others by their DNA, to track the Pandemic that is turning our world upside down. Our genetic differences make us special and unique. I am not you. You are not me. Our genes will travel far into the future if we have kids. After all, our DNA was perhaps the first three-dimensional Xerox machine. Despite the unique genes that drive us to our careers, we need to play, work, and get along with each other. Nothing is more important than a healthy sense of self-esteem. This takes courage, focus, and discipline. We must let our kids be themselves. They struggle in life to know, embrace, and accept themselves in every way.

Nonconformity

Do you think nonconformity is part of our American DNA, which can be our best friend or our worst enemy? We know no one has the exact gene pool except maybe biological twins. Triplets with the exact same genes have been in the news lately. As for clones with the same genes, it is emotionally troubling by some of us, but mostly for spiritual reasons. After all, many of us believe we were made in God’s image. Therefore, I imagine this thought generated this classic quote. “It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has exceeded our humanity,” warned Albert Einstein. Theoretical Physicist (1979-1955). Gene therapy, which replaces a non-working or missing gene, can change how our existing genes act. It took nearly 30 years for the first gene replacement therapy to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in people outside a clinical study.

Pandemic

While most of us crave the security of knowing what tomorrow will bring, we're far more resilient when we act as rebels. I wonder how many of us are fearing oblivion from the recent Pandemic before the scientists get it right? As I am writing this, a new steroid has been discovered that will save the lives of those on ventilators. They are saying it will cost only a dollar a day. "Our world is determined to return violence for violence. Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent.” Says Isaac Asimov, Foundation.

Melting Pot of Talent

I see no end until our government changes. Greed is driving the world right now. Many of us are protesting. An instinct when the world is not to our liking, and people are being gunned down daily in the streets, some because of their race. Oscar Wilde warned us, “There are only two tragedies in life: one is not getting what one wants, and the other is getting it.” Something should be done about gun control and racist brutality by the police and racists. Our genes do not want all this fussing and fighting. This is taught bigotry by the damaged or mentally ill. Voting is important right now, but so is staying home to prevent more sickness and victims. We are a melting pot of talent and filled with creativity that drives us even when we are on mandatory vacation. This is the perfect time to have some fun and try something new. Do not think about dying. An eye-for-an-eye attitude keeps us from learning to forgive. Do not think about living, loving, and being grateful; humanity is determined to exist for the future. Denis Waitley, Motivational Speaker, tells us, “Losers live in the past. Winners learn from the past and enjoy working in the present toward the future.” DNA: Friend or Enemy?

Excerpt from Song of Myself by Walt Whitman (1892 version)

I celebrate myself, and sing myself, And what I assume you shall assume, For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you. The smallest sprout shows there is really no death, And to die is different from what any one supposed, and luckier…

Stay Safe. Obey Social Distancing.

https://raechelconover.com/10-good-things-that-will-come-from-this-pandemic/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/progress-notes/201908/remembering-family-therapist-guru-virginia-satir
Check out this healing music video.

Reforming the American Prison System

Michael W. Staib — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 14:20:10 +0000

Reforming the American Prison System

Introduction

The American criminal justice system serves as a mechanism to administer societal justice. To ensure societal justice, the legal system deters crime by detaining offenders, removing them from society, and imposing appropriate punishment. It accomplishes these goals by establishing the prison system. Unfortunately, the modern U.S. prison system remains severely flawed in its administration of discipline. In what appears a sad reality, many criminals receive better treatment than the homeless and most other impoverished Americans. Frankly, our prison system seems more like a privileged playground than a place of punishment. The government sequesters superfluous amounts of money in taxes to subsidize inmates, providing prisoners with facilities such as a full-length basketball court and a gym packed abundantly with weight equipment. Worse, our prison system in its objective deliberately seeks to ameliorate conditions for prisoners. Accommodating and appeasing their interests, our prison system presents a serious problem. Prisoners deserve no such comfort. Rather, these facilities, which reward prisoners for their offenses, only psychologically reinforce criminal behavior and thereby instigate recidivism. Moreover, the overwhelmingly crowded population bombarding many state prisons exacerbates exorbitant facility expenditures. These excessive expenses impose a severe strain on the U.S. economy. Nevertheless, solutions exist. First, the government needs to stop funding correctional facilities. These programs wastefully allocate unreasonably large sums to undeserving criminals who simply reoffend. Second, to save money and space, prisons might consider implementing a prisoner classification system that separates prisoners by criminal severity. Hence, classifying prisoners by threat level seems an invaluable approach. Innocuous individuals such as drug addicts and others who pose minimal threat belong in either jail or rehabilitation centers, whereas capital punishment might serve as appropriate punishment for the most dangerous convicts. Deportation appears to be the only answer for illegal alien prisoners who deserve no place in America. Therefore, the American prison system necessitates extensive reform, as evidenced by unnecessary correctional facilities and overcrowding, which collectively not only cause outrageous facility expenses but also encourage additional crime. In contemporary American society, many prisoners experience undeserved special treatment. Rather than receiving impartial punishment as the conventional criminal justice system advocates, they actually live a privileged lifestyle due to correctional facilities that reward them for their actions. In prison, recreation encompasses various program activities. For example, ranging from passive activities to sports, recreation may include “television/movies, board games, card games, billiards, bingo, hobbies such as ceramics, photography, music, art, basketball, volleyball, and/or strength training exercise like weight lifting” (Correctional Recreation: An Overview, 1). While prison institutions vary extensively in the recreational programs offered, “federal facilities tend to support a wider range of activities,” such as, “jogging tracks, outdoor recreational yards, softball fields, photography dark rooms, music rooms, hobby rooms, indoor and outdoor basketball courts, theaters, etc.,” (Correctional Recreation: An Overview, 1). How ridiculous! These criminals deserve no appeasement. Justice only prevails when convicts suffer the proper consequences for their actions. What happened to the “just deserts” model of criminal sentencing, which provides appropriate punishment commensurate with criminal severity and which our criminal justice system advocates (Schmalleger, 403)? Furthermore, federal, state, and local governments invest approximately “$62 billion” annually on correctional adult/juvenile correctional facilities (State Corrections Spending, 1). Since 1986, State Corrections spending increased from $10,085,000,000 to “27,598,000,000” in 1996, surpassing $30 billion in 1998, and eventually reaching “$40,995,000,000” by 2004 (State Corrections Spending, 1). In 2005, state corrections expenditures reached a whopping “$42,890,000,000,” with current totals exceeding that amount (State Corrections Spending, 1). Following this pattern, projected federal and state funds expect to reach at least, “$27 billion”, “$15 billion” of which constitute operational funds and another “$12 billion,” in capital funds (State Corrections Spending, 1). Operational costs include “utilities, food, medical supplies, communication services, transportation, program services, and a variety of contracted support services,” among other correctional resources (Public Safety, Public Spending, 18). Based on the above calculations, reasonable predictions suggest increases of “$2.5 – 5 billion annually by 2011” (Public Safety, Public Spending, 18). Essentially, taxpayers spend billions of dollars each year not to punish, but to reward criminals for their misconduct. Go figure. What a frivolous waste of money! Prisoners deserve no special treatment. It undermines societal justice. Rather, such special recreational treatment serves as a reward that psychologically reinforces the criminal behavior. Recall the case of ‘Bomber Bandit’ David Wayne Britton. During his initial 14-year sentence at Sing-Sing Prison, Britton participated in the Rehabilitation Through Arts (RTA) program, which provided professional acting instruction. Less than 2 years after his release from prison, Wayne regressed into recidivism. Resorting to former ways, Britton recommitted robbery and currently serves another 14 years in prison. Why? His rehabilitation at Sing-Sing represents a reward that psychologically reinforced his behavior. The principles of reinforcement stipulate that “rewards increase a behavior” (Reinforcement Theory, 1). Therefore, the rehabilitation Wayne received constitutes a reward because he repeated his robbery, increasing the frequency of such behavior. Wayne repeated his misconduct because he received insufficient punishment. According to psychological reinforcement theory, effective punishment requires “immediate, intense, unavoidable, and consistent” conditions (Reinforcement Theory, 1). Lacking adequate intensity, Wayne’s initial sentence constitutes a reward rather than punishment since it encouraged him to subsequently replicate robberies. High recidivism rates characterize the current American prison system. Consider national statistics. According to data collected by the Bureau of Justice, among prisoners released in 1994, “67.5% were arrested for a new offense, with 46.9% convicted for committing new crimes” (State Corrections Spending, 1). Additionally, “51.8%” returned to prison either for committing a new offense or repeating crimes, violating the conditions of their release (State Corrections Spending, 1). The 1994 national study evaluated “272,111 prisoners released from prison in 15 states,” which comprised “2/3” of all discharged prisoners during that year (Bureau of Justice, 1). Recidivism stems directly from a flawed prison system, one that rewards its prisoners with recreation, psychologically reinforcing criminal behavior. Worse, our criminal justice system in its objective actually aspires to reward prisoners rather than provide the proper punishment they deserve. For example, a 1999 York Correctional Institution Manual enumerated its various objectives, which include "providing positive leisurely alternatives, improving self esteem, enhancing health/fitness levels, ameliorating individual creativity, strengthening positive socialization skills, relieving institutional stress, and keeping inmates occupied to reduce idleness," (Correctional Recreation: An Overview, 1). Such objectives suggest to prisoners that the criminal justice system condones crime. It clearly sends the wrong message. Hence, these correctional facilities intended as rehabilitation unjustifiably reward prisoners for their malevolence. Furthermore, the aforementioned correctional facilities remain available to all security prison levels except maximum prisons. For instance, even close security level prisoners, criminals with known “assaultive histories and possible detainers, requests by law enforcement regarding pending charges, for other serious crimes,” though meticulously monitored, receive the opportunity to participate in a recreational activity (Georgia Department of Corrections, 1). Close security prisons permit temporary departure from confined cells, “to work or attend corrective programs inside the facility” (North Carolina Department of Corrections, 1). During the day, inmates possess access to a “gym, auditorium, or recreational yard,” which may sometimes include “organized recreational activities” (24 Hours in Prison, 1). Some close-security prisons even allow inmates “to watch television, play chess, checkers, cards, and/or write letters” (24 Hours in Prison, 1). Unbelievable! Prison represents a place of punishment, not recreation. Again, criminals deserve no such reward. The prison system subdivides into four distinct echelons. Minimum, medium, close, and maximum/super-maximum security levels represent the four echelons in ascending order corresponding to criminal severity. Even maximum/super-maximum prisons permit “4 hours” per week of exercise in a room surrounded by a “high concrete wall,” and usually contain one “chin-up bar” (Spunk.org, 1). Prison officials “exercise discretion” regarding reading materials, yet may still allow certain books and magazines (Pettigrew, 1). Likewise, it the super-max prison may permit some closed-circuit television, though solely regulated by prison guards (Spunk.org, 1). Even at restricted levels, these facilities remain unnecessary to the worst criminals. Ironically, while maximum-risk prisoners receive minimal recreational exposure, sentenced to approximately “23 hours” of solitary confinement, these criminals alone cost the federal government more in fundamental infrastructure than any other prisoner grouping (Levels of Security, 1). Public funding appropriated to furnish newer maximum-level state prisons with the latest technological capabilities partially explains this paradox. Why? Greater security generates greater expense. It costs more to protect others, particularly prison guards, against the severe threat high-risk prisoners pose. The most recent development, super-maximum prisons, represents a sophisticated adaptation of maximum prisons, possessing advanced surveillance and digital devices. Prison psychologist Craig Haney believes the super-maximum prison exposes criminals to isolation, “a technological separation from inmates,” not previously possible by former prison systems (Pettigrew, 1). Yet, some of these innovations seem ridiculously expensive. Such technology costs seem needless and counterproductive. For example, why waste perhaps billions of taxpayer dollars on “electronic/audio video technology,” including “closed-circuit television,” for prisons such as the one located in Boscobel, Wisconsin, to implement visitation contact (Pettigrew, 1)? If the super-max prison vociferously opposes “face-to-face visits behind bars and glass,” restricting prisoners to digital devices within their cells, then why not simply prohibit all forms of visitation (Pettigrew, 1)? Basic utilities already incur a tremendous expense. Since 2001, the average single prisoner alone costs state prisons approximately “$22,650” per year (Public Safety, Public Spending, 18). Why add more expense? The Georgia Department of Corrections indicates “$109,000” in construction costs alone for bunk beds within two maximum security cell blocks when compared to close security prisons, “$79,200”, medium security prisons, “$60,700”, and minimum security prisons, “$31, 675” (Georgia Department of Corrections, 1). What an arbitrary waste of capital! Why the grotesque expense? Again, why impose such a burden on hardworking, law-abiding Americans? The government needs to reduce its excessive investment in needless prison utilities which serve no tangible purpose. Prisons also face the challenge of overcrowding as prisoner population increases. From the 1970s to 90s, our prison system witnessed dramatic population increases. During this interval, its population tripled, eventually surpassing approximately “300 per 100,000” by the early 1990s (Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy, 659). By 2002, the U.S. prison population reached roughly “2 million people,” approximately “702 people per 100,000” (PBS, 1). Evidently, our prison system lacks continuity as a direct consequence of such inundation. It seems inconsistent and unbalanced in administering punishment because it cannot regulate the growing population. Such instability remains a direct consequence of population mismanagement. As the prisoner population proliferates, surpassing infrastructural size and capacity, overcrowding results. Hence, challenges emerge involving prisoner placement. For example, the Wisconsin super-max prison mentioned earlier harbors prisoners who never committed grievous crimes, often due to insufficient space, “in other facilities or other nonpunitive reasons” (Pettigrew, 1). What a serious problem! Relatively harmless prisoners exposed to the most oppressive conditions, directly violating their 8th Amendment right, which protects against cruel and unusual punishment, results from unmanageable prison populations. Alabama, Connecticut, and Nebraska, among several other states, contain severely overcrowded prisons. In Alabama, prisons squeeze some “27,000 prisoners” into facilities designed to capacitate only “13,000,” at the expense of incarcerating nonviolent prisoners such as “drug and alcohol offenders” (Research and Reports, 1). Likewise, Connecticut faces an overcrowding crisis as its population growth transcends national trends (Research and Reports, 1). Nebraska prisons, a system that exceeded population capacity during the 1980s, incarcerate “more than half of its inmates” for nonviolent offenses (Research and Reports, 1). Moreover, criteria indicate continued demographic hypertrophy in prisons. Recent estimates anticipate unprecedented prisoner population growth in subsequent years, perhaps surpassing “192,000” inmates by 2011 (Public Safety, Public Spending, 1). Such overcrowding not only exacerbates capital expenditures and public funding needed to accommodate prison expansion but also provokes “security/control difficulties and increased levels of violence” (Improving Overcrowded Prisons, 1). Hence, increasing overpopulation presents a serious predicament to the prison system. Nevertheless, reasonable alternatives exist. A transition in approach may offer some solution. First, prison systems need to reorganize the prison population. Departments need to develop a more competent classification system that efficiently assesses criminal behavior and severity based on security risk. Why not classify prisoners according to their level of risk (Improving Conditions in Overcrowded Prisons, 1)? After all, if “lower risk groups” require lower-level security, why not transfer them to jails and/or rehabilitative centers rather than prison? For example, the lowest level minimum risk prisoners, such as alcoholics and drug addicts, belong in rehabilitation centers rather than prison. Drug offenders represent the greatest concentration, comprising “59% of all prisoners (Faces of HR95,1). All other non-violent minimum security prisoners who pose the least threat to public safety belong in jail rather than prison. Unfortunately, among all the “1.2 million” drug offenders in prison, only “200,000 individuals represent non-user drug dealers (Washington Monthly, 1). The others represent drug addicts. Most of the other 1 million drug offenders represent non-violent drug addicts who belong in rehabilitative centers. These individuals pose no threat to society other than the potential effects of their substance addiction. Why not remove the non-violent drug abusers from prison? After all, public officials expect the cumulative cost of housing for methamphetamine offenders to exceed “$340 million”(Public Safety, 11). Why not transfer the nonviolent drug addicts who currently cost unnecessary space and expense to rehabilitative centers for treatment? Why waste millions of dollars? They suffer from a non-violent addiction that requires psychological attention. Perhaps drug dealers who sell death to others belong with murderers, either in maximum-security prisons or possibly serving capital punishment. Approximately “27%” of the prison population harbors illegal aliens. As non-citizens, these individuals deserve no place even in American prisons (Faces of HR95). Their illegal entry into America alone constitutes a felony. Roughly 2 million illegal aliens annually infiltrate U.S. borders, exacerbating crime, destabilizing the economy, predisposing the nation to additional terrorism, and ultimately, polluting our culture with malfeasance. They alone cost the government billions of dollars in social subsidized programs. “Senate expenditures for amnesty estimate a combined "$50 billion" annually directed toward "entitlements, Medicaid, Social Security Income, Earned Income Tax Credit, the WIC program, food stamps, public housing, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, and federally funded legal representation" (Phillips, 1). Most of them refuse to learn English. Must we accommodate them? Deportation remains the only solution. Eradicating “27%” of the prison population considerably reduces unnecessary space and expenses. Though controversial, the death penalty provides one possible solution for murderers and other malicious maximum-risk criminals. Removing the most heinous perpetrators might create enough space to reduce overcrowding and cut prison facility costs. However, several flaws hinder the efficient application of capital punishment. It takes months, sometimes years, before a prisoner receives sentencing for execution. A New Jersey Policy Perspectives report confirmed that its state death penalty system cost taxpayers “$253 million since 1983” (NJADP, 1). Society demands an immediate, cost-efficient solution to the death penalty. Still, the death penalty remains a contentious issue. Prisoners need to die on their own terms. Ultimately, only God determines who deserves to die, as our Judeo-Christian foundation of justice advocates. Yet, America also remains a secular institution, as our First Amendment guarantees, and the Eye-for-An-Eye Code of Hammurabi, which represents biblical Old Testament scripture, also applies to our American criminal justice model. Yet, other critics consider the death penalty a violation of our 8th Amendment, which protects against cruel and unusual punishment. Again, death deserves death as enumerated by the Code of Hammurabi. Our system provides impartial, corresponding punishment. If a person maliciously kills another, then death appears justified in these worst-case scenarios. Also, the conventional death penalty appears insufficiently harsh, and even appeasing, for criminals like Timothy McVeigh, among others, who find death an easy escape from life imprisonment. Hence, a quick though torturous death, black-hole confinement without food or water, hanging, crucifixion, etc., among experimentation for the most malevolent murderers offers one feasible compromise. Imagine the tremendous space and expense potentially saved by a quick, yet relentless, cost-effective death administered for murderers. Such removal saves superfluous space and expense needed to administer criminal justice. Conclusion: Since its constitutional foundation, the U.S. criminal justice system serves to administer justice in society by discouraging crime, detaining offenders, and providing proper punishment. Prison systems play an instrumental role in achieving justice in society. However, the contemporary American prison system exhibits some flaws it in its disciplinary structure. These flaws unequivocally inhibit the full effect of justice. Apparently, most prisoners receive better treatment than most destitute, hardworking Americans. In fact, some convicts even live better than ordinary middle-class Americans. Various prisons incorporate recreational activities such as exercise, sports, and pastimes to pacify inmates. These activities include weight training, basketball, board games, television, and other rehabilitative programs designed to promote prisoner welfare. The correctional institution, in its primary objective, actually intends to foster health and well-being through rehabilitation so prisoners may supposedly acquire skills necessary for re-entrance into society. How absurd! Consequently, its objectives contradict the disciplinary purpose of justice: to adequately punish individuals for their crimes and, hopefully, thereby reduce recidivism. Why nurture the most heinous perpetrators who deserve only retribution for their reprehensible behavior? Such a system that rewards offenders seems unconscionable. It only aggravates crime through psychological reinforcement. Must society bear the burden of recurring recidivism? These criminals deserve no sympathy. Must taxpayers subject themselves to such capricious fiscal appropriation? Whatever happened to the notion, “No taxation without representation!” which our constitutional founders courageously advocated in their indefatigable fight for national sovereignty against Britain? Overcrowding also presents a serious systemic problem because increased prison populations significantly raise public facility costs, worsen environmental conditions, and, in worst-case scenarios, force early releases. Consider reasonable solutions. First, the government needs to abandon its funding of correctional facilities in prisons. As noted above, correctional facilities serve no purpose because they wastefully appropriate public funds while providing insufficient punishment to deter future crime. Furthermore, the prison system demands a hierarchy that reclassifies prisoners. Therefore, such classification eliminates individuals posing maximum and minimum danger, neither of whom belongs in prison. One solution might be to move the least threatening individuals to jails. Another solution might require removing the most malevolent criminals through capital punishment. Lastly, deport all illegal immigrant prisoners since they lack citizenship and deserve no place in the U.S. Ultimately, the U.S. prison system demands extensive reform because unnecessary correctional facilities plus overly concentrated populations cause unnecessary government expenditure while adulterating crime, and therefore present a grave injustice to American society.

Bibliography

Public Safety Performance Project, “Public Safety, Public Spending: Forecasting America’s Prison Population 2007-2011”, 2007, http://www.pewpublicsafety.org/pdfs/PCT%20Public%20Safety%20Public%20Spending.pdf
SBB, “Reinforcement Theory”, Sept. 15, 1996, SBB, Inc. http://www.as.wvu.edu/~sbb/comm221/chapters/rf.htm
Bureau of Justice Statistics, “Recidivism of Prisoners in 1994”, http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/reentry/recidivism.htm
Georgia Department of Corrections, “State Prisons” 2007, http://www.dcor.state.ga.us/Divisions/Corrections/StatePrisons.html
North Carolina Department of Corrections, “Assigning Inmates to Prison” 1995-2007, http://www.doc.state.nc.us/dop/custody.htm
North Carolina Department of Corrections, “24 Hours in Prison” 1995-2007, http://www.doc.state.nc.us/DOP/HOURS24.htm
Spunk.org, “What is a Super-max Prison?” http://www.spunk.org/texts/prison/sp001611.txt
Pettigrew, Charles A., “Comment: Technology and the Eighth Amendment: The Problem of Supermax Prisons”, North Carolina Journal of Law, 2002,
South East Seventh-Day Adventist Church, “Levels of Security,” http://www.se7day.org/prison_ministry/security_levels.html
Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy, “Volume 30, Number 2 Spring 2007”, 2007, Harvard Society for Law & Public Policy, Inc.
NewsHour Extra Story, “U.S. Prison Population Hits All-timeHigh”, http://www.pbs.org/newshour/extra/teachers/lessonplans/math/incarceration_story_9-05.html
Public Safety Performance, “Research & Reports,” 2007, http://www.pewpublicsafety.org/research.aspx
Center for Justice & Reconciliation, “Improving Conditions in Overcrowded Prisons”, 2001-2007, http://www.pficjr.org/Resources/justicereformkit/tenkeys/overcrowded
Califano, Joseph A., “A New Prescription – Investing in substance-abuse treatment would take a big bite out of crime”, Vol. 30, Issue 10, Oct. 1998, The Washington Monthly Online, Inc. http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/features/1998/9810.califano.prescripton.html
Human Rights 95, “Faces from the Human Rights and the Drug War exhibit”, Mar. 28, 1998, http://www.hr95.org/hr95faces.html
New Jerseyans for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, “New Report Death Penalty Cost New Jersey Taxpayers $250 million since 1982”, Nov. 21, 2005, http://www.njadp.org/forms/cost/cost%20study%20release.html
Phillips, Howard, “The Constitutional Government Blog”, http://www.howardphillips.com/archive0606.htm
Correctional Recreation, “Correctional Recreation: An Overview”, 2006, StrengthTech, Inc. http://www.strengthtech.com/correct/overview.htm
Schmalleger, Frank, “Criminal Justice Today – An Introductory Text for the 21^st Century”, 2007, 2005, 2003, 2001, 1999, 1997, 1995, 1993, 1991, Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ, Pearson Education, Inc.
Public Safety Performance Project, “State Corrections Spending,” 2007, http://www.pewpublicsafety.org/statistics/corrections_spending.aspx

How the World Economy will Crash after October 19th

Paul Collins — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 15:42:53 +0000

How the World Economy will Crash after October 19th

“Does your son have a job?” an American asked his very, very broke British cousin in the 1957 black-humor movie, ‘How to Murder a Rich Uncle.’ “My son is a gentleman,” came an answer. “Does your son have a job?” the questioning continued. “My son is a gentleman,” across the pond repeated. There was a moment of silence, an obvious pause. “Is your son employed?!” The horror never abated. Whenever the corporate media mention PM Mark Carney, they prattle on about his so-called accomplishments-he is an Oxford/ Harvard educated, worked at Goldman Sachs, was a former top British banker, a former top Canadian banker, sits on the board of directors of Brookfield Properties, which is a publicly traded company, and…I’m running out of ink. If you didn’t get the memo, I’m not a Mark Carney superfan, and I never support any politician of any stripe. Ever.

The Clarity Act

When I first scribbled this article down, the Alberta government decided to have an Independence Vote. In the past, Quebec had a sovereignty movement in the past. In fact, they had a 1995 referendum, and it ended up at 44.75% of the popular vote. Back in 1999, then Prime Minister Jean Chrétien passed the Clarity Act, which set out the conditions for any province to leave Canada. In addition, the act requires a clear question of secession to initiate secession talks. Would the United States allow any of its states to separate? Never.

Alberta Independence Referendum

Getting back on track, by October 2026, there will be an Alberta Independence Referendum, votes will be tabulated by Dominion Voting machines which is in every polling station too, not hand-counted like it should. These same machines were thrown out of Europe—the technology to rig elections is here. Does anyone realize that when Germany elected a far-right party called the AFD? Does anyone not realize that Europe no longer has Dominion Voting machines? The AFD was elected by a hand-counted vote and not tabulated by a machine. In Canada (while we call it Canada), Dominion voting machines are in every polling station—the technology to rig elections is here! Thus, I fully expect that Alberta will separate from Canada through Dominion Voting machines, the Canadian bond market will crash, and… Through the Good People of Google AI, I now know Canada ranks as the fifth-largest foreign holder of U.S. Treasury bonds, owning about $460 billion in U.S. government debt. Thus, Canada holds about $459.6 billion to $460 billion in U.S. Treasury securities. If you didn't get the memo, Canada ranks 5th worldwide behind major holders like Japan, China, the United Kingdom, and Belgium.

U.S. Debt

Why Canada Buys U.S. Debt? Canada buys U.S. dollars and government bonds to build up its liquid foreign currency reserves. These cash reserves act as a financial cushion to help stabilize the Canadian dollar during global market shifts. Canadian pension funds and banks also buy U.S. assets, seeking safe, reliable interest payments. Remember, political instability will lead to negative economic consequences, and the Canadian bond market will crash. Canada is the 5th-largest owner of U.S. bonds; this will lead to an American Bond Market Crash and a Second Great Depression. Pardon me while I catch my breath, but in good times, senior citizens retire, sell their homes, and invest their money in the bond market; they receive 4.5% to 6.5% interest. If they invest $ 1 million in bonds, they will receive $45,000 to $65,000 a year. Can anyone live on that? Yes. Coming full circle, when Alberta separates, (not if) the Canadian bond market will crash, senior citizens will lose their shirts, and will be eating dog food, or cat food, to survive. There will obviously be a second referendum, Dominion Voting Systems will count the results, Alberta will become the 51st state, and Wall Street investors will be rewarded with a windfall. Forget about Venezuela, Greenland, or Iceland. Once Alberta separates, British Columbia will follow, and Quebec and Ontario will be the last—that New World Order thingy. Mark Carney will resign in disgrace, will go back across the pond, resume managing his company Brookfield Properties, and being a temporary Prime Manager of Canada will be listed as one of his many accomplishments. Remember, President Donald Trump is a real estate mogul and a former realty TV star. Prime Minister Mark Carney is also from the business realm and sits on the board of directors for Brookfield Properties—they are both landowners and mirror images of each other—and we are in a cost-of-living crisis. Trump and Carney are there to maintain their monopoly of land and colossal fortunes. They represent themselves and their business interests. If we really want to end the cost-of-living crisis, we should nationalize the land monopolized by big business, the banks, and real estate investors…and one wonders why I started watching pro-wrestling again when 2020 came.

Practical Tips to Beat Stress

Saloni Sawnani — Sat, 05 Sep 2026 15:46:40 +0000

[caption id="attachment_108614" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Photography by Mizuno K[/caption]

Practical Tips to Beat Stress

What is stress?

Stress is a response to real and imagined events that disrupt the body's normal functioning. Stress arises when you perceive a situation as stressful. Stress is often associated with situations that you find difficult to handle. How you view things also affects your stress level. If you have very high expectations, chances are that you will experience more than your fair share of stress.

Stress Reactions

Stress, either quick or constant, can induce risky disorders. Immediate disorders such as dizzy spells, anxiety attacks, tension, sleeplessness, nervousness, and muscle cramps can all result in chronic health problems. Stress reactions vary tremendously in their severity, from mild uneasiness to extreme terror and panic. They may also affect our immunity, cardiovascular and nervous systems and lead individuals to habitual addictions, which are interlinked with stress. Some attitude changes to help you cope with stress. Stop trying to be a superwoman or a superman. You cannot be perfect, and you cannot do it all. Asking for help when you are overwhelmed and busy is not a sign of weakness. Be gentle with yourself when it comes to criticism. Don't expect too much of others or yourself. Effective stress coping is about being happy with what you have. Share your feelings. Talking to a friend or loved one after a stressful day is a great way to cope with emotional stress. Remember, you don't have to do it alone. Coping with stress is also about being flexible and living a balanced life. Neither let others impose their points of view on you nor reject them altogether. Try to be patient instead of judgmental, listen to others, and think it over before deciding.

Some practical strategies to help you cope with stress

Get organized - Coping with stress is all about planning. You can plan to fail or plan to succeed. Organize time for work, family, hobbies, spiritual time, time with friends and time alone, time for exercise, and time for relaxation.
Visualize the best outcome - Coping with stress means knowing how to handle a stressful situation before it happens. Rehearse how you will handle it. Picture yourself successfully coping with stress.
Take a break - It is a good idea to do fun things such as watching a movie, playing a video game, or going for a drive, etc., for a while every day. Developing an active hobby like gardening, drawing, or playing music is also an excellent stress buster.
Don't Postpone Actions - One of the best strategies for coping with stress is not to put off actions until tomorrow if you can do it today. Situations become more difficult when you defer. Do your least favorite chores first, then reward yourself.
Be realistic - Set realistic goals. Emphasize quality over quantity. Work at a leisurely pace and take frequent breaks.
Sleep, eat, and exercise - Coping with stress is all about treating your body properly. Eat food that nourishes you, exercise, and get plenty of sleep.

So here's an A - Z of Stress Management:

Always take time for yourself, at least 30 minutes per day.
Be aware of your own stress meter: Know when to step back and cool down.
Focus on controlling your own situation, not everybody else's.
Daily exercise burns off stress chemicals.
Eat lots of fresh fruit, veggies, bread, and water; give your body the best fuel so it can perform at its best.
Forgive others, don't hold grudges, and be tolerant -- not everyone is as capable as you.
Gain perspective on things: how important is the issue?
Hugs, kisses, and laughter: Have fun, and don't be afraid to share your feelings with others.
Identify stressors and plan to deal with them better next time.
Judge your performance realistically; don't set goals out of reach.
Keep a positive attitude; your outlook will influence outcomes and the way others treat you.
Limit alcohol, drugs, and other stimulants; they affect your perception and behavior.
Manage money well, seek advice, and save at least 10 percent of what you earn.
No is a word you need to learn to use without feeling guilty.
Outdoor activities by yourself, or with friends and family, can be a great way to relax.
Play your favorite music rather than watching television.
Quit smoking: It is stressing your body daily, not to mention killing you too.
Relationships: Nurture and enjoy them; learn to listen more and talk less.
Sleep well, with a firm mattress and a supportive pillow; don't overheat yourself and allow plenty of ventilation.
Treat yourself once a week with a massage, dinner out, or the movies; moderation is key.
Try to understand things from the other person's point of view.
Verify information from the source before exploding.
Worry less: It doesn't really get things done better or faster.
Express: Talk your feelings out with people you love and trust.
Yearly goal setting: Plan what you want to achieve based on your priorities in your career, relationships, etc.
Zest for life: Each day is a gift; smile and be thankful you're part of the bigger picture.

MOST IMPORTANTLY

Believe in yourself. You can turn any situation into a win-win if you relax and stay focused with a positive attitude. If you think you can... you can! Don't try to be perfect. Aim high and try to reach for the stars. But keep things in balance. If you think that "anything less than perfect means I've failed," then you are creating mountains of unnecessary stress for yourself. Focus on doing your best, but recognize that none of us can be perfect all of the time. Take steps to overcome problems. Stay practical. When you hit a roadblock and run out of ideas, look around. Someone you know might be able to help you through it. Don't keep things bottled up. Confiding in someone you trust and who will be supportive is a great way of alleviating stress and worry. Keep things in perspective. Life is full of challenges. No one challenge is so big that it blocks our road to success. Don't make it one!

How the West Was Won with Chinamaxxing

K.C. DeVille — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 15:54:54 +0000

How the West Was Won with Chinamaxxing

Somewhere between iced coffee and geopolitical anxiety, Gen Z found a new personality: Chinese grandma energy. Hot water instead of cold brew. House slippers instead of shoes indoors. Tai chi in the park instead of a HIIT class. Welcome to Chinamaxxing, the internet’s latest full-send lifestyle trend, and the one nobody can fully explain without also elucidating the entire U.S.-China relationship. So, please excuse our feeble attempt…

What is Chinamaxxing?

The name follows the same internet logic as “looksmaxxing” or “healthmaxxing.” Take a word, slap “maxxing” on it, and it means going all in. In this case, going all in on Chinese-coded daily habits. Warm water in the morning. Boiled-apple fruit tea for gut health. Qigong swapped for a gym membership. Slippers the second you walk through the door. News18 probably describes Chinamaxxing the best. The mix of wellness rituals, daily habits, aesthetic appreciation, and tech curiosity all bundled under one hashtag. The Lunar New Year gives it an extra push as people lean into traditions like not washing their hair for good luck. Also, the caption of choice, borrowed from Fight Club: “You met me at a very Chinese time in my life.” There’s another visual level. Chinese-inspired fashion, calligraphy, and interest in Chinese-made tech were once off most Americans’ radar.

It’s Exploded Beyond Meme Status

What started as niche TikTok content escalated fast. CNN reports that creators are now filming morning routines as a “new Chinese baddie,” with videos racking up millions of views. It didn’t stay contained to random creators, either. Celebrity moments like Timothée Chalamet playing ping-pong in Chengdu turned Chinamaxxing into something mainstream. A lot of this traces back to livestreamers Hasan Piker and IShowSpeed, who toured Chinese megacities and broadcast the trip to millions of viewers.

Not Everyone’s Sipping the Tea

Plenty of people think the whole thing is, at best, a shallow costume and, at worst, something more uncomfortable.

The Appropriation Pushback

Cherie Wong, a Hong Kong Canadian activist, didn’t hold back in an Instagram video NPR cited. Wong argued that reducing “being Chinese” to hot water and slippers glosses over generational trauma and political reality. The BBC’s reporting frames it similarly. Chinamaxxing arrived remarkably fast after a pandemic-era wave of Sinophobia. And some in the Chinese diaspora aren’t convinced the shift is sincere, but the next aesthetic to cycle through.

Without Disclaimers

And then there’s the wellness angle. Some Chinamaxxing content drifts into gut-health fixes and “detox” routines. Red dates to nourish the blood. Ginger root to aid digestion. Tai Chi for mental energy. These are complementary medicines and should not replace treatments prescribed by professionals. If you want a holistic approach, consult a dual-certified nurse who specializes in the body and mind. They are more accessible to the public. They have years of experience and knowledge. They can tell the difference between fad and fact. Many earn their degrees via dual FNP-PMHNP online programs. An online dual FNP-PMHNP program lets students combine integrated primary and mental healthcare coursework. The certification includes dual nurse practitioner specialties. And, you get to do it all online. Rockhurst University adds that you can complete the online MSN dual track full- or part-time, depending on your schedule. Yes, a nice ritual is a nice ritual, and a real health concern deserves a real conversation with someone qualified to have it. A healthcare provider such as a nurse practitioner can look at the picture alongside whatever new habits feel good to try.

‘It Was Never That Serious’

The simpler counterpoint is that it’s internet culture, and internet culture moves on. CNN notes that for most people using the trend, it’s mental irony; a joke wrapped in a caption, not a manifesto. Trends fade, algorithms shift, and #newlychinese could be as forgotten as last year’s core aesthetic by next spring.

Why Gen Z has Bought In

Strip away the geopolitics, and there’s a more familiar Gen Z story underneath: burnout and looking anywhere else for an exit. Writer Yi-Ling Liu tells NPR that Americans’ growing fascination with China says more about domestic anxiety than it does about China itself. A generation watching its own systems creak while another country’s cities look, at least online, frictionless and new. “Americans’ perspective of China has shifted. And it’s really rooted in the U.S.’s own insecurities about its dysfunction.” - Author and tech writer Yi-Ling Liu. That’s consistent with how Gen Z engages with culture generally. It’s pulling from Korean skincare, Japanese minimalism, Scandinavian work-life balance, and now Chinese wellness habits. This generation treats identity as something assembled from whatever’s working elsewhere, rather than tied to one place.

FAQs

What does ‘Chinamaxxing’ mean?

It's an internet shorthand for going all-in on Chinese-coded lifestyle habits.

Is Chinamaxxing considered cultural appropriation?

Opinions split. Critics argue it flattens a complex culture and history into a lifestyle aesthetic, given the recent history of pandemic-era Sinophobia.

Is this really about geopolitics, or is it just a TikTok trend?

Both, depending who you ask. CNN and NPR both note it’s been read as a soft-power win for Beijing, while users insist it was always meant as an ironic joke rather than a political statement.

Should I take health advice from Chinamaxxing content?

Treat it as a lifestyle add-on, not medical guidance. If a real health concern is behind the curiosity, it’s worth a conversation with a qualified provider.

Chinamaxxing: Fast Facts

Data Point	Figure	Source
Views on a viral ‘boiling apples for gut health’ video (as of late Feb 2026)	2.4M+ views	CNN
Timing spike	Ahead of Lunar New Year 2026	News18
Sherry Zhu’s TikTok following (key trend amplifier)	740,000 followers	BBC
Combined views on #Chinamaxxing-related hashtags (as of Feb 2026)	20M+	GoEast Mandarin

The Debate Continues

Chinamaxxing is messy, like most viral trends. Part genuine curiosity. Part soft-power tailwind. Part appropriation risk. Part joke that got away from itself. Lifestyle content isn’t diplomacy, but it might be the only version of US-China contact most Gen Zers are having. Whether that’s a meaningful cultural bridge or this month’s aesthetic remains up for debate. And depending on which article you read, both answers are being argued in earnest.

Are We Entering the Generalist Renaissance?

Judy Markova — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 15:35:35 +0000

Are We Entering the Generalist Renaissance?

We have the internet; the Renaissance had the printing press. We have Silicon Valley; the historical Renaissance had Florence. Is it still accurate to consider ours an age similar to that of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo? The historical Renaissance saw a world awakening from a long slumber into the light of intellectual dawn. Consider the iconic example of da Vinci himself: a painter, a scientist, an architect, and a mathematician. Was specialization unimportant back then? No, in fact, knowledge itself was seen as interconnected. Today’s debate hinges on another turning point. With AI taking center stage, some believe the qualities associated with Renaissance thinkers will define the future. Does this truly mean a comeback of the Generalist, or are we romanticizing the past? More importantly, is the future a contest between generalists and specialists? This article will show how we arrived at this crossroads and where the path forward leads.

How Did We Come to Worship Specialization?

The most fundamental way in which specialists differ from generalists has to do with the distinction between depth and breadth. Essentially, specialists like to go deep into a field, whereas generalists enjoy connecting widely across fields. It doesn’t take too many pages of Renaissance history to understand that the era celebrated intellectual achievement by how widely one could think. No wonder figures like Leonardo da Vinci were so revered, with one of his most famous quotes being, “Study the science of art, and the art of science. Realize that everything connects to everything else.” True to his beliefs, da Vinci never limited himself to a single discipline. A different reality emerged as scientific discoveries accelerated and industries grew more sophisticated. It became nearly impossible for a single person to master every field. The following forces undoubtedly propelled the transformation:

The Industrial Revolution, which rewarded efficiency and specialized tasks
Universities where syllabi were developed around specialized disciplines
Professional licensing and advanced credentials being the hallmarks of competence
The dependence of technological and scientific progress on experts

Modern civilization indisputably owes many of its greatest leaps to specialists. Yet, success has new challenges in store. The more sophisticated a discipline becomes, the more fragmented it gets. For instance, AI is as much a topic encompassing ethics, law, and psychology as it is of computer science. This sense of interconnection is changing employer expectations. The World Economic Forum (WEF) shared that 39% of workers’ existing core skills are expected to change by 2030. Employers are prioritizing skills like analytical thinking, flexibility, social influence, and resilience. The question of the hour is whether depth alone is adequate in an age where the most consequential problems sit at the junction of multiple disciplines.

Has the AI Age Changed What Expertise Looks Like?

As we move toward the Industrial Revolution, expertise largely became defined by depth. People who spent years mastering a particular field gained authority because specialized knowledge was hard to acquire. It may be called a necessity of the times or just how things were, but the age of AI is challenging that tradition. Since machines can now process gargantuan volumes of data and generate relevant responses within seconds, simply possessing knowledge won’t hold up. People are questioning how effectively knowledge can be interpreted and applied in situations with no straightforward answers. To summarize, the AI age is shifting focus toward qualities that go beyond information mastery, as follows:

Critical thinking, or the ability to analyze information
Human discretion, or the capacity to make decisions involving ethics and uncertainties
Adaptability, or the willingness to develop new skills with technological growth
Interdisciplinary thinking, or the ability to connect ideas from different fields

This changing definition of expertise is especially noticeable in fields where knowledge must be applied within complex societal realities. Social work, for example, cannot be reduced to information processing. A social worker needs to understand psychology, community structures, healthcare systems, and public policy. Moreover, all decisions must be made within the boundaries of empathy and ethical reasoning. This is where an advanced Master of Social Work (MSW) becomes essential. Rather than focusing only on technicalities, these programs emphasize the human dimensions of expertise. As Saint Leo University notes, the curriculum equips aspirants with the skills to practice ethically, advance human rights, and promote justice. While specialization is involved and necessary, these professionals also rely on compassion and contextual understanding. To stay connected to their existing professional roles and communities, many aspirants pursue online MSW programs. This creates a learning model where education is not separated from practice. PwC’s 2025 Global AI Jobs Barometer analyzed nearly one billion job advertisements across six continents. It found that the skills employers seek in AI-exposed jobs are changing 66% faster than most other roles. So, we see two things happening: The AI age has emphasized the importance of applying knowledge correctly, and the technology itself is increasing demand for professionals who can evolve with it.

Do Generalists and Specialists Need Each Other More Than Ever?

It’s fascinating that most of history supports the idea that generalists and specialists occupy opposing camps. In reality, the two have always depended on one another. Think about it: Specialists deepen knowledge by pushing the boundaries of a particular field. On the other hand, generalists create value by connecting ideas across various disciplines. The world can no longer afford to dismiss this interdependence in light of the problems defining the 21st century. Most of them don't fit within a single area of expertise, whether AI, supply chain resilience, public health, or climate change. What’s needed is a balance in which specialists provide depth and generalists integrate those insights into coherent solutions. The strengths of both parties become clearer when viewed side by side. So, here’s a breakdown that may be easier to follow:

Specialists drive precision, developing new treatments, conducting scientific research, and solving highly technical problems.
Generalists broaden perspective by identifying patterns across disciplines and helping organizations navigate ambiguity.
Innovation often happens where the two meet and shake hands, as combined expertise can lead to something entirely new.

According to 2026 research by McKinsey & Company, work is being redesigned around collaboration among people, agents, and automation. While technical skills have their place, qualities such as empathy, leadership, and sound judgment are expected to become more valuable since they are less susceptible to automation. In line with that, roles that may have sounded unusual a few years ago are becoming popular. Consider the rise of the ‘hybrid workforce orchestrator,’ expected to coordinate human employees and automated systems rather than serve in a specialized discipline. This suggests organizations are moving toward collective intelligence, where success depends on translating knowledge across fields. The answer does not involve eliminating specialists or generalists. Neither can succeed in isolation, so the archetypes lose their force. Workplaces that let depth and breadth flow together are best positioned to see desirable growth.

What Is the Future Asking For?

Was the historical Renaissance simply an age of extraordinary individuals? It may seem so, but we should not overlook that the era transformed how people approached knowledge itself. Renaissance thinkers couldn’t help but challenge conventional wisdom as they sought connections across art, science, philosophy, and the human experience. This ancient legacy and mindset are making a comeback today. After all, AI may have made knowledge more accessible than ever, but that doesn’t automatically lead to understanding. Are we then not missing the key link: the capacity for lifelong learning? The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s Education Policy Outlook 2025 argues that traditional education models are struggling to keep up with a world where people are working longer. It also notes that participation in adult learning has changed little over the past decade, despite the awareness regarding lifelong learning. Ultimately, the need of the hour is to equip people not only with knowledge, but also the capacity to continue learning throughout their lives. The launch of RAISE US, a bipartisan nonprofit, follows this direction. With over $500 million in initial funding, this organization aims to help American workers continuously adapt to an AI-driven economy. As co-founder Gina Raimondo stated, “If you want to lead the world in AI, you have to take action to make sure our democracy doesn’t crumble.” AI leadership is indeed as much a societal challenge as it is a technological one. If the future is asking for anything, it is surely people who can:

Remain curious, even after achieving a certain degree of expertise
Learn continuously with the realization that knowledge has an increasingly shorter shelf life
Connect ideas across disciplines to discover solutions that may help different fields simultaneously
Exercise discernment, especially where technology, ethics, and human needs collide
Adapt with purpose, viewing change as an opportunity to grow

FAQs

Is it better to be a generalist or a specialist in the age of AI?

Neither approach is inherently superior. Specialists contribute deep expertise that drives scientific, technological, and professional advancements. Generalists connect ideas across disciplines to navigate complex organizational challenges. As AI redefines work, companies value professionals who combine depth in one area with the ability to adapt and collaborate.

Why have generalists been gaining attention lately?

Generalists are gaining attention because many of today’s biggest challenges, including climate change and cybersecurity, span multiple disciplines. Their strength lies in integrating diverse perspectives and turning specialized knowledge into practical solutions. They essentially tend to amplify the impact of specialized expertise through collaboration.

How can professionals prepare for a future where skills keep changing?

Preparing for the future requires embracing lifelong learning rather than depending entirely on qualifications earned early in one’s career. Professionals can stay relevant by constantly updating their skills and staying curious. These qualities complement technological advances rather than compete with them.

The Bigger Picture in Facts and Numbers

World Economic Forum (WEF) on change in core skills	39% of workers’ existing core skills are expected to change by 2030
PwC’s Global AI Jobs Barometer findings based on analysis of one billion advertisements across six continents	The skills that employers seek in AI-exposed jobs are changing 66% faster than most other roles
2026 research by McKinsey & Company	Work is being redesigned around collaboration between people, agents, and automation
OECD’s Education Policy Outlook 2025	Traditional education models are struggling to keep up with a world where people are working longer Participation in adult learning has changed little over the past decade, despite the awareness regarding lifelong learning

Perhaps this is where the idea of a ‘Generalist Renaissance’ finds its deepest meaning. It isn’t a call to replace specialists or romanticize the past. The crux is a simple reminder that progress has always depended on minds willing to question assumptions and remain lifelong learners. If history offers any lesson, it is that every Renaissance begins with a renewal of thought. Can a vast influx of knowledge alone bring that about? Not really. Depth is like a microscope, while breadth resembles a telescope. The former reveals intricate details, and the latter puts the landscape in perspective. Do the two lenses need to compete? If not, then specialists and generalists need not stand on a battlefield.

‘Dying’ for a Fresh Perspective?

K.C. DeVille — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 18:04:52 +0000

[caption id="attachment_108600" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Photo by Carlos Barajas[/caption]

‘Dying’ for a Fresh Perspective?

Nothing says “relaxing weekend” like climbing into a coffin. Yet that’s exactly what a growing number of people in Japan are doing on purpose. It’s called coffin-lying, and it’s turning funeral furniture into a wellness tool. No candles. No spa robe. Exclusively you, a wooden box, and thirty minutes to sit with the one topic most people spend their whole lives avoiding. Coffin-lying sounds like a dare. Actually, many compare it to therapy. Stay with us. It gets weirder, and then it’s surprisingly sensible.

Making Death Trendy

The idea started small. A 120-year-old funeral home in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, began offering coffin sessions as an unusual way to unwind. Word spread fast, and the practice has since grown into a full wellness trend with its own dedicated spaces. Participants climb into a coffin, open or closed, for about 30 minutes. Some sessions add music or ceiling visuals. Others go for total silence. A session runs around $13, which by all accounts is cheap therapy.

Cute Coffins Are a Thing Now

Tokyo’s Meiso Kukan Kanoke-in relaxation salon takes the concept further. Coffin designer Mikako Fuse builds bright, decorated caskets through her company Grave Tokyo, aiming to soften the whole experience. The salon describes it as an experience where you can “gaze at life through being conscious of death.” “Before choosing a death that cannot be reversed, I want them to experience a death that can be reversed.” - Mikako Fuse via VICE. Yes, that’s a real business pitch. And yes, people are lining up for it.

Why a Box Built for Funerals Is Being Marketed as Self-Care

Japan has record-high youth suicide rates, and coffin-lying has become part of a broader push for mental health advocacy. According to a 2025 Japanese government report, the student suicide rate hit an all-time high. About 532 students died by suicide. The number was the highest since record-keeping began in 1980. Fuse has linked the experience directly to suicide prevention, framing it as a controlled, reversible brush with mortality. It’s a deliberately blunt idea: face a symbolic death so the real thing loses some of its grip.

Rooted in an Old Idea

None of this comes out of nowhere. Japan has long practiced kuyō, a memorial tradition built around honoring the fragility of life. Coffin-lying dresses an old cultural instinct in new, Instagrammable packaging. Style News notes that Fuse has run coffin workshops at a university where students said the exercise eased anxiety and left them with a stronger appreciation for life.

When a Coffin Session Isn’t Enough

Coffin-lying hasn’t caught on in the U.S. yet. As with all viral trends, one should treat it with a disclaimer. Yes, it can ease a bad week, but it’s not built to treat a bad year. If your relationship with death, anxiety, or your own mood runs deeper than “stressed and needs a reset,” that’s a sign to talk to a professional. Access to mental health services has become more convenient in recent years, thanks to psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). These advanced practice nurses are trained specifically in mental healthcare, and the qualifications behind that title are substantial. Earning the credential requires a bachelor’s degree in nursing, an active RN license, and a master’s-level program. This is why many study a psych NP program online. The 100% online coursework is built around psychiatric mental health assessment, neuropsychopharmacology, and clinical care across a patient’s entire lifespan. Students can complete the online psychiatric nurse practitioner program in two years while working. Cleveland State University adds that an online PMHNP program is backed by hundreds of supervised clinical hours before graduation.

More than a Wellness Check

That training means a PMHNP can do more than a general wellness practitioner ever could. They assess, diagnose, and treat conditions like anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. They can prescribe and manage psychiatric medication. They also provide psychotherapy, working with individuals, families, and groups in settings ranging from hospitals to community mental health centers. So if a wellness trend is what got you thinking seriously about death, fear, or how heavy things have felt lately, treat that thought as useful information rather than a red flag.

Why Lying Still and Silent Could Help

Strip away the coffin and what’s left is a sensory deprivation exercise. No notifications. No noise. No one asking anything of you. According to Outside, removing external stimulation can quiet the parts of the brain tied to rumination and stress. Cortisol drops. Blood pressure eases. Breathing slows. The body stops scanning for danger, essentially clocking out for half an hour. That stillness is also why the fear of death shows up so quickly once you’re inside. With nothing else to focus on, your brain goes straight for the big questions.

The Data Behind the Box

The most recent data we could locate was a 2023 study published in BMC Medical Education. The review tracked 134 medical and nursing students in Taiwan, 53 of whom took part in a roughly three-hour coffin-lying exercise. Researchers measured attitudes toward death one week before, one week after, and up to eleven weeks later. The result: scores for “fear of death” and “death avoidance” dropped substantially in the group that did the activity, and the effect held up weeks later. Feelings of “love and care” and “existence” spiked right after the session but faded over time. In short, the exercise didn’t primarily feel good at the moment. It left a mark.

FAQs

Is coffin-lying meant to be spiritual or clinical?

Both, depending on where you go. Some sessions lean into relaxation and mindfulness; others frame it explicitly around death education and mental health support.

How long does a typical session last?

Around 30 minutes for wellness-focused sessions.

Is there real evidence it works?

Early research is promising. The BMC Medical Education study found measurable, lasting drops in death-related fear and avoidance among participants.

Where did the trend start?

A funeral home in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, first offered it, and it has since spread to dedicated relaxation salons like Tokyo's Meiso Kukan Kanoke-in.

Dying in Numbers

Stat	Detail
Session length	30 minutes for a standard coffin-lying session
Experimental vs. control	53 in the coffin-lying group, 81 in the control group (BMC study)
PMHNP job growth	Projected 18% increase in positions, 2016–2030 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Follow-up window	Effects on “fear of death” and “death avoidance” held up 6–11 weeks later (BMC study)

Could This Work for You?

Morbid curiosity with coffins aside, the trend could be onto something. Thirty minutes of total sensory shutdown. Phone off. Lights out. No agenda. All of this taps into the same relaxation response researchers are measuring. The coffin makes the stakes impossible to ignore. Plenty of people will read all this and still think, hard pass. Fair enough. But the appeal isn’t about the box. It’s about being handed permission to stop, sit with the discomfort, and come out the other side less afraid of it.

Who Decided That Life Should Be Figured Out by 30?

Judy Markova — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 17:40:30 +0000

Who Decided That Life Should Be Figured Out by 30?

Any of us who are 25 years and above must be familiar with an overwhelming sense of speed. Here we were enjoying our youth, and out of nowhere, life seemed to be getting compressed into five short years. Yes, only five years left to be in your 20s, and only five years left to figure life out. Everywhere you turn, the dreaded question awaits, “So, what’s next?” Society hands us a checklist of milestones: Land a stable job, get married, buy a house, have kids, and so on. A recent Pew Research Center survey confirmed how ingrained this sentiment is, at least across 18 countries. A median of 53% of adults believed that the ideal age to complete all of the abovementioned milestones is 30 or younger. That’s great on paper, but does life itself hand anybody a user manual to follow? Some get there sooner, and others much later. Against the diversity of human experiences, the question remains: Who decided we should have life figured out by 30? This article will put that ‘unofficial’ deadline on trial.

The Inheritance of an Unseen Script

Before we even dive in, let’s call the rhythm out for what it is: a facade. Why? It isn’t simply about missing a step and being ridiculed for it. Even those who reach certain milestones much sooner are treated as the odd one out. It’s almost as if the way is so narrow that you cannot turn to the left or to the right. Suddenly, if you don’t know who you are or where you’re headed by 30, the only hope for you is an existential breakdown. Now, none of the aspirations expected by 30 are unreasonable on their own. The problem isn’t even the timeline; it’s assuming that there is only one timeline that everyone must follow. On that note, it is interesting that our idea of what it means to be an adult is evolving. A 2025 Psychology Today article shared a meta-analysis of nearly 40 studies involving 17,000+ participants. It was found that fewer than one in four people considered marriage and parenthood to be determinants of adulthood. A striking 80% believed that psychological qualities like accountability, self-dependence, and the ability to take responsibility would count as determinants. So, essentially, the conversation seems to have arrived at a spot where developing character is central. Doesn’t this make sense in view of the fact that the aforementioned milestones do require a certain character to achieve and retain them? However, this unseen script of having it all figured out by 30 is more of a legacy passed down from one generation to another. One may inherit it, more often without even realizing it, from the following places:

Family conversations that often involve good-intentioned questions like, “When are you settling down?” or “Have you thought about buying a house?”
The logical sequence of education to career instilled in schools and universities
The trending reels of social media that seldom highlight someone’s uncertainty or struggles
Stories we’ve been told through movies, books, and advertisements that portray adulthood as a project

Amid all this, perhaps the most influential scriptwriter is our own self, who is ready to compare based on internalized expectations. The irony is that no one ever decided 30 to be the deadline. Maybe that is also the first realization worth holding onto. Before wondering if you’re falling behind, question whether you’re measuring yourself against a timeline you never chose.

What if Life Was Never Designed to Follow a Timeline?

Is it not telling that one of the most recognizable symbols of life, the heartbeat on a monitor, does not follow a straight path? Perhaps that’s not a coincidence, teaching us that linearity is a myth at best. For instance, some people discover the career they love straight out of college, whereas others spend years exploring different paths before it all just clicks. Similarly, some pause their ambitions to raise children or care for loved ones. Others return to old dreams after unforeseen setbacks or new opportunities. To expound, consider the example of education itself. The traditional expectation of earning a degree in your early 20s and never returning to the classroom is not an accurate picture of modern-day learning. Flexible programs have made it possible for professionals to develop new skills without putting their lives on hold. Healthcare offers a particularly good example, as many registered nurses discover later in their careers that they want to expand their role in patient care. Is this because of age? Seldom, but mainly because the nurse is ready for a new phase of life. One of the advanced paths is that of becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). These professionals can provide comprehensive care to people of all age groups. As Texas Woman’s University notes, the specialization is designed to expand investigative capabilities and grow as a leader in multifaceted nursing practice. Now, deciding to continue one’s education is one thing, but finding time for it is another. Nurses balancing full-time jobs and rotating shifts in particular pursue an online FNP degree for flexibility. The fact that such opportunities are available tells us that society also recognizes that not everyone moves at the same pace in life. Different seasons of life call for different priorities, and sometimes that may mean:

Returning to education after years in the workforce
Finding the right relationship later than expected
Changing careers after discovering that the first choice wasn’t the right fit
Buying a home or reaching financial goals at a comfortable pace, not haphazardly
Rediscovering old dreams or developing new ones even decades later

The Price of Trying to Keep Up

Many may not admit it, but they’re trying really hard to keep up with the Jonases. The ‘American dream’ that was sold to millions for decades comes with a price tag that may be out of reach for a majority. For instance, Investopedia shared that the median price for a single-family home stood at an estimated $415,000 in 2025. That number does not include maintenance costs and other fees; now do the math! Does that seem affordable for every 25+ something adult today? This was just one of the many milestones, but one that can be quantified. What about the others? Well, even starting a career is ambiguous these days, regardless of the field. Students out of universities spend months or years sometimes landing a stable job. Many simply receive a $ 20-per-hour offer from a local Home Depot. Meanwhile, layoffs are at their peak, and this has many frozen into their lifeless roles. Nich Tremper, the senior economist at Gusto, shared, “Folks are kind of just sitting still. They’re not looking for new roles; they’re not leaving their current roles. Without those new jobs available, it’s hard for an entry-level employee to get their foot in the door and start a career.” This doesn’t seem like a lack of desire or effort, does it? Well, some things truly are not in one’s control, but time waits for no man, as the saying goes. There is already little room to breathe when one is thrust into the brutal reality of modern dating. While it works out for some, that is no guarantee written in stone. People who spend time viewing the world outside-in feel an overwhelming sense of pressure to keep up. This can lead to:

Rushing through major decisions simply because there is no time
Treating someone else’s milestones as the standard despite having different circumstances and priorities
Overlooking other meaningful forms of growth, such as emotional maturity and resilience
Mistaking life’s detours for failure, when they may be seasons of learning and healing
Feeling successful on the outside but empty and unfulfilled in reality

Writing Your Own Definition of Success

What’s one takeaway from questioning the script we all inherited? One may get the timeline as a legacy, but not the success it dictates. To a large extent, the latter is something everyone must define for themselves. While this doesn’t involve abandoning ambition, it’s important to realize that a meaningful life is not a close copy of someone else’s. A 2025 Forbes interview with executive coach Keren Eldad was based on this idea. She argued that many people spend years chasing status, money, and recognition because those things are shaped by society's expectations. Eldad shared her own experience, describing how pursuing the aforementioned things eventually left her disconnected from her authentic self. We should be asking the same question: Are we pursuing goals because they reflect our values, or because we’ve fallen for someone else’s definition of success? On that note, a Gallup survey found that family was the most frequently chosen personal value among Americans, selected by 49% of respondents. This was followed by freedom (30%), health (29%), integrity (28%), and faith (26%). So, although better income and promotions attract the limelight, many people place ultimate importance on things that provide lasting meaning. In the same way, it may be more helpful for you to measure your progress against your own values. So, consider the following questions:

What achievements would still matter to me if no one else knew about them?
Which goals align with my priorities instead of other people’s expectations?
What kind of person do I hope to become while pursuing success?
If I achieved every traditional milestone but lost my health, peace, and closest relationships, would I still consider that success?
When I look back years from now, what do I hope I’ll be most grateful for?

Don’t expect all the answers to come in the blink of an eye. Take your time, and allow the answers to evolve with new experiences and changing priorities.

FAQs

Is it normal to not have life figured out by 30?

Yes, there is no universal timeline for adulthood. People reach career, relationship, and financial milestones at different stages due to unique circumstances, opportunities, and priorities. Falling behind someone else’s schedule does not mean you’re falling behind in life.

Why do people feel pressured to achieve everything before 30?

The pressure often comes from family expectations, cultural norms, social media comparisons, and traditional ideas about success. Watching others’ highlight reels can create the false impression that everyone is following the same timeline, even though real life is far more unpredictable.

How can I define success on my own terms?

Start by identifying what genuinely matters to you instead of chasing society’s priorities. Measure progress by your values, growth, relationships, and purpose rather than your age. A meaningful life is not built by meeting arbitrary deadlines but by making intentional choices over time.

A Reality Check in Data and Numbers

Pew Research Center survey conducted across 18 countries

A median of 53% of adults believed that the ideal age by which one should get married, buy a house, and have kids is 30.

Investopedia on the median price for a single-family home in 2025

$415,000

Gallup survey on American choices

49% of the respondents kept family as the priority
It was followed by 30% choosing freedom, 29% favoring health, 28% valuing integrity, and 26% prioritizing faith

Finally, some moments seldom earn the same attention as a promotion or wedding announcement. However, they tend to leave the deepest and most enduring impact. Think about becoming more resilient after a disappointment or having the courage to change directions when the road ahead is not well-trodden. These milestones matter! Let’s consider an unexpected place where this message finds its voice. CNBC shared an interview with a 100-year-old bodybuilder, Andrew Bostinto, who shared his secret to a long and healthy life. His answer wasn’t a complicated fitness routine or a fad diet, as many would expect. He simply summed it up as, “Know what you want to accomplish, and commit yourself to it.” What’s refreshing about his advice is that it involves no deadlines, only a concrete direction. The pressure to have life figured out by 30 assumes success is a destination. Thankfully, it is not! So, who decided that life should be figured out by 30? Well, whoever it was clearly forgot to consult life itself.

Writers Seeking Support

Patricia Gitt — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 15:36:25 +0000

[caption id="attachment_108593" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Kathleen Leadley Photography[/caption]

Writers Seeking Support

When I began my career as a self-published author of women’s psychological mysteries, I sought help from a variety of sources. I read magazines and newsletters and subscribed to organizations that offered articles, telecasts, and Q&A opportunities. Usually seeking a solution to one of my plot or character problems. While working on my first novel, CEO, I attended local university classes. One of the instructors invited several of her students to join her biweekly workshop. It was a supportive environment where I not only made lifelong friends but was also introduced to the kindness and extraordinary creativity of other authors. I discovered that writers are inquisitive, interested in a broad range of topics. When gathered, you might discuss ways to murder a villain, design a fantasy universe, or focus your work on a particular historical period. To me, this makes them the most desirable of friends, certainly never boring. It also encouraged me to expand my reading choices, both fiction and nonfiction, introducing me to different genres and writing styles. This creative environment enabled me to publish that first novel, twenty-five years after putting the first word on the page, and immediately begin working on my second. All the while, I had a career that took me traveling, along with attending a local university to earn my MBA. Today, all of these experiences, both artistically and vocationally, have become material for my seven novels. Some writers have all their characters and plots already in mind. I write women’s psychological mysteries because I find women to be either their best friend or their own worst enemy. The idea for a book has always been sparked by my views of some remark or social myth. CEO, the harm of feminism. ASAP, damage done when a career woman, wife, and mother places herself last on her list of priorities. TBD, when a woman lacks a true appreciation of her professional skills. FYI: an innocent event can create an enemy. And the series, What She Didn’t Know, during which a woman goes from adoring wife to grieving widow thrust in the midst of a murder investigation. While I continue to investigate supportive outlets, two have kept me an enthusiastic member for more than a decade: The International Dublin Writers Festival and Angie’s Diary. Having attended conferences: aboard ship sailing through the Panama Canal; on Maui, Hawaii; Dublin, Ireland; Glasgow, Scotland; Shepherdstown, West Virginia; and in New York City, USA, I’ve come to the following conclusion... I want to learn, not compete for attention. Whether it is a workshop format or a lecture series, I want to trust the organization that selected the speakers and designed its sessions. I looked forward to acquiring new information along with ways to reach readers in today’s every changing book publishing world… A world increasingly accepting of self-published authors. The International Dublin Writers Conference was founded by Laurence O’Bryan, CEO of BooksGoSocial, a marketing and advertising organization for authors. He says, “I went to a writers’ event in New York City for a weekend back in 2009. It was almost the best weekend of my life! I spent time at events and talks, ate with writers, went to a writer’s event on Saturday morning, and ate again with writers at lunch. It was my idea of heaven. Camaraderie and learning. “In 2014, after years of talking about it, decided to start a conference. The International Dublin Writers' Festival event has grown from 50 attendees to 150 already registered for the 12^th Conference, being held at Trinity College Dublin on August 14-16, 2026.” The reason I have attended ten of these conferences is that, unlike some, every attendee has been welcoming, sharing personal stumbles and successes, and helpful in getting me past one of my roadblocks. One example: during a conference break, I sat with four writers and mentioned that I was seeking a logo to represent my novels that featured successful New York City businesswomen facing a crisis. In less than twenty minutes, we sketched a puzzle piece that is now my logo. (Check the website here). The second and even earlier association is with Angie’s Diary. The online literary magazine introduced me to new writers from around the world. From published books and poetry to independent articles, each supporting my belief that writers are truly the most interesting people. Over the years, Angie has featured each of my seven novels and articles. To be counted among other outstanding authors has been an adventure in literary exceptionalism. In the end, a writer must believe in themselves. Start anywhere that is comfortable, and begin to tell a story that entertains them. If you aren’t engaged, you will have difficulty entertaining readers. Just because you write, delete, add, and correct sentences, paragraphs, scenes, even characters, do not give up. It helps to refine your work. Do not look for criticism. Look for supportive ideas and information. It is your story. Remember, you do not have to show your work-in-progress to anyone until you are ready. An editor will comment on structure, grammar, and punctuation. Few will give you the inspiration, supportive excellence, and camaraderie I continue to find at The International Dublin Writers Conference and Angie’s Diary. Each provides advice, examples of other authors’ work, and, through participation, expands my writer's vision of what, how, and why I continue to write. From this writer to you: Enjoy your writer’s journey.

Whose Point Of View Is It?

Arlene Johnson — Fri, 01 May 2026 18:38:57 +0000

Whose Point Of View?

Throughout my journey on the winding path of writing, I've stumbled more times than I can count.

Among my most memorable blunders was my mishandling of Point Of View—a misstep that a discerning editor highlighted in a rejection letter more insightful than many acceptances.

In my newbie attempts to educate my readers on what EVERYONE was thinking, I had no less than 3 POVs in one short story. The end result was a good story sent to the editor's recycle bin instead of being included in the intended anthology.

I like to think I've come a long way since those early missteps. Now, when I encounter this same issue in the work of fellow writers, it leaps off the page—unmistakable and jarring. Why? It muddies the narrative waters, leaving readers adrift in confusion.

Just as you settle comfortably into the mental world of the protagonist, the narrative abruptly veers into another character's psyche—and then yet another. Astonishingly, even published books sometimes fall prey to this disorienting practice.

Sometimes I try to ignore it and muddle through; other times, my brain goes on tilt, and I toss the book/story aside.

A fundamental rule of thumb is to maintain a single POV per short story or chapter. Simply put, the supporting cast isn't hired for their inner monologues—their role is to interact with, challenge, or propel your main character forward.

In novels, the natural pause at the end of a chapter graciously allows for a smooth transition to another POV, should the story demand it.

If you really must switch POV in a short story, alert your readers' minds that something is about to change by separating the paragraphs with ***. Limit the use of this little trick, though; you don't want to follow every other paragraph with asterisks.

If you ever find yourself uncertain about whose voice is steering the narrative, slip into the metaphorical shoes of your main character. Imagine you are 'Bob.' Would Bob truly have access to the inner machinations of Tom's mind? Unless Bob possesses supernatural insight, his knowledge is limited strictly to how Tom's words and actions ripple through his own world.

Once you achieve a kind of creative symbiosis with your protagonist, maintaining a consistent POV becomes second nature. Your narrative will flow with newfound clarity, readers will remain fully immersed, and editors will have one less reason to send your hard work to the slush pile.

Does Book Marketing Work?

Hank Quense — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 13:05:50 +0000

Does Book Marketing Work?

Marketing a self-published book has a dual purpose, and only one of them concerns actually selling the book. The other goal is to tell people about the book. The reality is this: the day your book became available, thousands of other books did too. Since you are an unknown author (so far!), no one knows about your book, and no one cares that the book is available.

Marketing Effort

This, then, is the marketing situation. You have to tell the world that:

Your book exists and
Make them care enough that they investigate the book and purchase a copy.

Without this marketing effort, your book will languish in the realm of the unknown.

Marketing Tactics

How do you do this? There are many marketing tactics that can be deployed to spread the word about the book. A major problem with initial marketing efforts is deciding which tactics to use and which ones to ignore. A strategic marketing plan is vital to this decision-making. The most important part of the marketing plan is identifying your book's target customer. This information allows your marketing tactics to focus on where to reach those customers. Spending time and money on a gun enthusiast website to reach romance readers is not a good idea. Spending time and money on the general population is also a waste. Only a tiny portion of the general population will have an interest in the topic of your book. Concentrate on finding and reaching that tiny segment.

The Best Time to Start Marketing

Another fundamental question that often comes up is when is the best time to start marketing the book? Of course, the ideal time to begin your marketing efforts is several months before your book becomes available. However, if your book is already out, don't worry. You can still market the book. Actually, it is never too early or too late to start your marketing campaign. So let's get to the crux of the matter. You probably have questions that need answering. Here are two that come up a lot:

Does book marketing work?
Is it worth the time and money?

The answer to both questions is a definite yes.

Your Best Bet

To elaborate, let's compare book marketing to playing the lottery. If you buy a lottery ticket, you have a small, very small chance to win a ton of money. If you don't buy a ticket, you have no chance of winning the money. With book marketing, if you do the marketing stuff, you have a small, very small chance of making a ton of money through your royalties. If you don't do the marketing, you have zero chance of making money on the book. With the lottery, you can also win smaller amounts of cash. So too with book marketing. If you market the book, you may recoup your marketing investment through royalties and perhaps a bit more. So what I'm saying about marketing is that a bit of luck is also required to go along with the hard work. But that's true in almost every endeavor in life.

Conferences and Fairs

You can also influence your luck. How? Consider this. Your chances of getting hit by lightning are minimal, but you can substantially increase those chances by standing in an open field during a thunderstorm while holding a metal rod like a golf club. So, too, you can influence your book marketing luck by attending book conferences and fairs. You can also hang out where agents and publishers gather — either in person or online — which will increase your chances of being noticed.

Landing Page

Another way to increase your "luck" is by creating a great landing page. Think of your Amazon book page here. All your social media activity should be designed to do one thing: deliver visitors to this landing page. It's the landing page's job to sell the book (or not!). Your landing page has three critical elements to sell the book:

The cover
The book blurb
The description

To begin, a bland or generic cover will not impress visitors. When a visitor lands on the Amazon page, she will see at most six lines of text. Those lines have to convince her to click on the "read more" button. That's the job of the book blurb: persuade the visitor to read more. Then the book description sells her on buying the book.

Don't Bore Your Potential Customer

Consequently, this landing page is one of the most valuable market tools you have. However, don't waste this opportunity by using the synopsis as the blurb or description. A synopsis has its uses, but marketing isn't one of them. I've never read a synopsis that didn't bore me to tears. And boring a potential customer isn't wise. You have to use all your creative powers to write a description that convinces a visitor to spend money. So the real question is this: Will you market your book? This then is the reality of book marketing. Not marketing the book really isn't an option unless writing it was a bucket-list project. If your objective in writing the book was to have people buy it and read it, you must market it. Hank Quense has written a book called Book Publishing and Marketing Insights. If you're thinking of self-publishing, you should read this book first. You can download a free copy of the book.