values

A Kindling of Kindness. Runner-Up in Tales of Hearth Challenge.
In 1994 I was a moody pre-teen. Preferring to be alone in my bedroom with a video game. Christmas especially. But this year would be different.
By Addison Alder2 years ago in Families
The Hearth at Winter's Edge
The wind howled outside, its icy fingers reaching through cracks in the old wood of the cottage, but inside, warmth clung to the walls like a quiet promise. Snow, thick as cotton, swirled in the night air, coating the trees and rooftops with a blanket of white, muffling the world in soft silence. Yet in the heart of the little house, there was nothing but the crackling of the fire and the low hum of contentment.
By Latoria Hall2 years ago in Families
The Weight of Wings
A soft drizzle misted the air as Mira stood beneath the old banyan tree at the edge of her grandmother’s property. The tree’s sprawling roots twisted like stories she’d heard countless times as a child, tales of resilience and love shared by her late grandmother, Amma. Now, Amma was gone, leaving behind an emptiness Mira didn’t know how to fill.
By Lunar Quill (Fantasy Walker )2 years ago in Families
Cyclone Chido's Devastation in Mayotte | Tragic Impact of Mayotte Cyclone Hundreds to Thousands Feared Dead | Mayotte Cyclone Chido Taco
The video footage of Mayotte's most catastrophic natural disaster shows the brutal reality of Cyclone Chido. Heart-wrenching images reveal neighborhoods turned to rubble. The destructive path of the cyclone has left hundreds dead and many more missing.
By Bilal Hameed2 years ago in Families
A Place Called Home
They had slowly crept out of the city. Soaked roads, sleet pounding down around the car. They had just filled up the tank; after all, they needed to get there. He loved the smell of gasoline; it promised power and speed ahead. And yet, it was fleeting.
By Henrik Hageland2 years ago in Families
When I Think About Her
When I think about her, I see the color purple (her favorite) all around me and I taste the sweetness of the Juicy Fruit gum she always had in her handbag. I could smell it before I ever saw it as the scent permeated the whole room. She had other mysteries dispersed in that bag, too...back then all the ladies carried decorated handkerchiefs wherever they went. Sometimes you could even see them stuff those squares into their pockets or their bosom for safekeeping. The fanciest ones, usually with lace, were the ones my Grandma would use when she met other ladies to play bridge.
By Shirley Belk2 years ago in Families
God’s Light in a Storm
This past year has tested me in ways I never expected. After a devastating flood wiped out my apartment, I lost just about everything I owned. In the middle of election season, when the country feels like it’s split down the middle and everyone’s drawn their line in the sand, I got a surprising reminder of what community and God’s light really looks like.
By Vance Papageorgio 2 years ago in Families
Taking Care of Sweet Souls
Taking Care of Sweet Souls In life, we come across many people who accompany us along our journey, but among them, there are a few who stand out as truly special. The value of these sweet souls often remains unnoticed, until the moment they are no longer by our side. The sweet souls that fate grants us are precious gifts, bringing us true joy in the smallest of things and offering a sense of stability in life. However, there are times when a fleeting moment of sorrow or a misunderstanding causes us to distance ourselves from these sweet souls. But by doing so, we risk losing something irreplaceable. For such sweet souls are rare in life, and it is through them that we experience the true beauty of life. When we feel hurt by someone, the thought crosses our mind — "Let's end this relationship right here." But in reality, the people in our lives who have given us love, forgiveness, and moments of laughter, should not be let go over a temporary hurt. These sweet souls are few and far between, and it is through them that we truly savor the sweetness of life. At times, it is important to take care that a relationship does not break due to temporary anger, arguments, or minor misunderstandings. Even when our loved ones quarrel with us, it is a sign of a healthy relationship. Even if they are a little upset, they still hold onto the love in that relationship. Love and connection are like a special energy that brings us closer to each other. The smiling face of a sweet person has an enchanting quality that helps us understand, forgive, and rekindle the bond between us. Life is transient, and the significance of each relationship is invaluable. We should never hold on to hurt or sorrow for too long, as it can distance us from those who matter. Sometimes, it is better to nurture the love of those we care about and preserve the beauty of our relationship than to lose them over a momentary pain. Good relationships are built with a kind heart, and they last for a lifetime with a good nature. No matter what other happiness life offers, when our sweet soul is by our side, that is the truest happiness. At a certain point in life, we realize that the bond we share with a sweet person is irreplaceable. A loved one may be important only to us, but their love carries immense value in our lives, even during challenging times. Wherever life takes us, no matter how much change we experience, the love and presence of our sweet souls remain our greatest treasure. In their smiles, in their love, we experience the true sweetness of life. Therefore, we must take care of these sweet souls, value the relationships we share with them, and cherish the sweet memories we create together. In the course of life, we will encounter countless situations, trials, and experiences, but it is the bond with those few rare individuals — the sweet souls — that remain constant, grounding us and reminding us of what truly matters. Their love teaches us to forgive, to cherish, and to live with kindness. These people do not just enrich our lives; they define the essence of life itself.
By Dipak Pawar2 years ago in Families
Mending the Break
Let's start with a quick question: How many of you have a meaningful relationship in your life? I'm guessing it's most of you, but it's always good to check our assumptions. As I discuss the parent-child relationship today, keep in mind that these principles apply to any significant relationship.
By BLESSING OPEYEMI FALEYE2 years ago in Families
Tales of Hearth
The snow had been falling steadily since morning, blanketing the small town of Willowbrook in a hush that only winter could bring. Each rooftop was capped with white, and the bare branches of the oaks lining Main Street bore a dusting that shimmered in the pale light of late afternoon. Inside the corner bakery, the air was thick with the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg, mingling with the fresh aroma of baked bread, apple cider, and rich hot chocolate. The warmth from the ovens was a welcome contrast to the biting cold outside.
By CD2 years ago in Families
Things a 15-Year-Old Should Be Allowed to Do
Both parents and kids can find it hard to get through the teen years. At age 15, teens are starting to become more independent, but they still need help and advice. Finding the right mix is important for helping them grow and become responsible. Here is an in-depth look at the main areas where 15-year-olds should be given some freedom while still being properly supervised.
By Teenage Parenting2 years ago in Families
PARENTS! LOOK INTO YOUR CHILDREN’S EYES AND LISTEN TO THEM!!!
It was December 2024. A cold winter day. Snowflakes were dancing in the air as I set out for school to keep my promise to my friend, Arda. No matter how cold the weather was, it was impossible for me to ignore a child in need.
By Super Bulldog2 years ago in Families