fact or fiction
Is it a fact or is it merely fiction? Fact or Fiction explores relationship myths and truths to get your head out of the clouds and back into romantic reality.
Letting Go of Divorce Guilt: How to Heal and Finally Feel Free
When Divorce Guilt Won’t Let You Breathe: Here's How to Finally Let It Go You know that overwhelming feeling in your chest? That weight that won't budge no matter how many days or months have passed since the separation? That, my friend, is guilt—and in case you're perusing this, chances are it's been waiting in the distance as well for a long time.
By Milan Milic2 years ago in Humans
Why We Dream of Death
Death is one of the most common themes in dreams. For centuries, people have wondered what it means to die in a dream, why it happens, and whether it holds any deeper significance. According to Kelly Bulkeley, a renowned dream researcher and founder of the Sleep and Dream Database containing over 40,000 entries, dreams involving death—whether through murder, accidents, or natural causes—are among the most frequently reported.
By Eleanor Grace2 years ago in Humans
Touching Death Through VR
In a groundbreaking fusion of art, technology, and existential curiosity, a virtual reality (VR) experience in Melbourne, Australia, is giving people the chance to undergo something most have wondered about but never truly want to face — the moment of death.
By Eleanor Grace2 years ago in Humans
The Warm Glow Of Yesterday
In an age of relentless forward motion, where every new app, gadget, and viral trend seems to outdate the last, there’s a strange comfort in looking back. That familiar scent of an old book, a forgotten song crackling through worn speakers, or the grainy texture of a childhood photograph — these are the simple, yet powerful triggers of nostalgia. While some might dismiss it as sentimental longing, modern psychology suggests nostalgia holds a far more meaningful place in our emotional toolkit than we might realize. Nostalgia, derived from the Greek words nostos (return home) and algos (pain), was once considered a psychological affliction. In the 17th century, Swiss physician Johannes Hofer described it as a disease among soldiers longing for their homeland. Fast forward to today, and the understanding of nostalgia has undergone a radical transformation. Rather than a symptom of weakness, it’s now viewed as a universal human experience — one that promotes resilience, connection, and even hope. What makes nostalgia so potent is its dual nature. On one hand, it stirs up a yearning for what once was: a childhood home, lost friendships, or the simpler routines of a pre-digital life. On the other, it anchors us, reminding us of who we are by connecting us to where we’ve been. Psychologists have found that nostalgic memories are typically rich in social content — gatherings, family traditions, holidays, and significant life milestones. It’s rarely about the lone moments; it’s about shared experiences. Interestingly, nostalgia isn’t a passive recollection of the past. It’s an active emotional process that helps regulate mood and even self-esteem. In studies conducted by Dr. Constantine Sedikides at the University of Southampton, participants asked to recall nostalgic events reported higher levels of optimism and purpose afterward. They felt more connected to others and more hopeful about the future. This might seem paradoxical: why would looking backward make us feel better about what lies ahead? The answer lies in the way nostalgia affirms our sense of continuity. Life is unpredictable. Careers shift, relationships evolve, health fluctuates, and the world itself seems to accelerate at a breakneck pace. Nostalgia offers a buffer against this uncertainty. By revisiting moments when we felt safe, loved, and significant, we remind ourselves that we are capable of experiencing those emotions again. In that sense, nostalgia isn’t about escaping the present but enriching it with the warmth of the past. You can see this trend reflected culturally. The resurgence of vinyl records, the revival of 90s fashion, and the endless stream of movie reboots are more than just marketing ploys. They tap into a collective craving for familiarity in unfamiliar times. Even social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, with their “On This Day” features, capitalize on our instinct to revisit the past. And while it’s easy to criticize this as a sign of cultural stagnation, it might be more accurate to view it as a coping mechanism. Of course, like anything, nostalgia can have its downsides. When overindulged, it may lead to idealizing the past at the expense of the present. The danger lies in transforming fond memories into a narrative of decline, where everything contemporary feels inferior. The key is to strike a balance: using nostalgia to draw strength, not retreat. In personal practice, nurturing nostalgia can be surprisingly simple. Make a playlist of songs from your teenage years, revisit a childhood recipe, or sift through old letters and photographs. Share those stories with loved ones. In doing so, you’re not just preserving history — you’re actively participating in the creation of emotional continuity. In a world obsessed with progress and novelty, nostalgia serves as a gentle reminder: while we move forward, there’s wisdom and comfort in occasionally looking back. It connects us to our most authentic selves, strengthens our social bonds, and offers a well of optimism for the future. And perhaps, in times of uncertainty, that’s exactly what we need most.
By SHADOW-WRITES2 years ago in Humans
Khopra Ridge Trek: A Symphony of Blisters, Bad Decisions, and Borrowed Hope
The Himalayas have a way of humbling you. Not with grandeur, but by handing you blisters the size of grapes and then laughing while you limp. When my friend Dave—a man whose life choices include tattooing his WiFi password on his arm—pitched Khopra Ridge as a “quiet, soulful escape,” I should’ve known better. But there we were: Dave, Sarah, Emma, and me, crammed into a jeep bouncing toward Nepal’s Annapurna region. Our gear? A drone Dave swore would “capture the soul of the mountains,” Sarah’s selfie stick (blessedly forgotten in Pokhara), and Emma’s apocalyptic stash of snacks. Our souls? Questionable.
By michal lenden2 years ago in Humans
THE QUIET STRENGTH OF BEING ALONE
The Quiet Strength of Being Alone: Rediscovering the Art of Solitude In a world that prizes constant connection, where social media apps beg for our attention and smartphones rarely leave our hands, solitude often gets an unfair reputation. To be alone is sometimes seen as lonely, even sad — a state to be avoided at all costs. But throughout history, some of the wisest thinkers, artists, and leaders have insisted on the importance of solitude. Not as isolation, but as a deliberate act of stepping back from the noise to reconnect with oneself. In today’s relentlessly busy world, rediscovering the art of solitude might be one of the most valuable skills we can cultivate. Solitude vs. Loneliness: A Crucial Difference First, it’s important to make a distinction between solitude and loneliness. Loneliness is a feeling — often painful — of being disconnected from others, even if people surround you. Solitude, on the other hand, is a state of being alone without being lonely. It’s an intentional choice to withdraw for reflection, rest, or creativity. Many people fear being alone because they confuse the two. We live in an age that celebrates extroversion, where success is often linked with networking, socializing, and maintaining a constant digital presence. In such an environment, the idea of being alone can seem uncomfortable or even abnormal. Yet, solitude offers a richness that constant interaction simply cannot. Historical Champions of Solitude Some of history’s greatest minds were known to cherish their time alone. Henry David Thoreau famously retreated to the woods of Walden Pond to live in a small cabin and contemplate life in solitude. In his writings, Thoreau emphasized how silence and simplicity could reveal profound insights about oneself and the world. Philosophers like Friedrich Nietzsche and Arthur Schopenhauer argued that solitude was essential for original thinking. Artists and writers from Virginia Woolf to Leonardo da Vinci sought solitude to nurture their creativity. Even religious traditions — from Buddhist monks to Christian hermits — have long embraced solitary practices as a path to wisdom and inner peace. What Solitude Can Teach Us Spending time alone forces us to confront ourselves. Without the distractions of conversation, media, or tasks, we’re left with our own thoughts, hopes, fears, and memories. While this can be uncomfortable, it’s also deeply clarifying. In solitude, you can reflect on your life’s direction, decisions, and relationships. You may discover neglected passions or unresolved conflicts. It’s a space to listen to your inner voice — something increasingly drowned out in the modern world. Moreover, solitude fosters creativity. Countless studies suggest that the brain functions differently when it’s not being bombarded by external stimuli. In moments of quiet, ideas have room to percolate, connections are made, and problems find unexpected solutions. That’s why so many creative breakthroughs happen during a walk alone, a long drive, or even a solitary shower. Solitude in the Digital Age The challenge today is that solitude is harder to come by than ever. Even when we’re physically alone, our devices tether us to a stream of updates, messages, and alerts. Many people feel anxious in moments of silence, instinctively reaching for their phone the moment boredom threatens. Yet, this makes solitude all the more valuable. Learning to be alone with your thoughts without reaching for distraction is a skill that takes practice. Start small: take a walk without your phone, spend 10 minutes a day in quiet reflection, or try writing in a journal before bed. Embrace moments of intentional disconnection. Turn off notifications, leave your phone in another room, or better yet, take a digital detox for a weekend. It’s in these quiet spaces that you may rediscover forgotten parts of yourself. Final Thoughts Solitude isn’t about cutting yourself off from others. It’s about finding a balance — creating space to recharge, reflect, and realign with your values. In solitude, you learn to enjoy your own company, which in turn can deepen your relationships with others. Rather than something to fear, solitude is a form of quiet strength. It’s an opportunity to listen to the world inside you, to hear the faint echoes of intuition and creativity. In the stillness, you may find not emptiness, but a deeper sense of presence. And in today’s crowded, noisy world, that’s a gift worth seeking.
By SHADOW-WRITES2 years ago in Humans
Embracing Human Illnesses and Breaking Free from Perfectionism Part 2
Embracing Human Illnesses and Breaking Free from Perfectionism Introduction Many of us are instructed to strive for perfection from an early age. We’re praised for getting the highest grades, winning awards, or looking flawless. In a world that celebrates idealism and perfection, anything less can feel like failure. However, the cost of striving for perfection is frequently anxiety, self-doubt, exhaustion, and a separation from our true selves. Reclaiming your humanity is at the heart of this article, not just about the dangers of perfectionism. It’s about freeing yourself from the heavy burden of always needing to be perfect and stepping into the beautiful, messy, and real experience of being human. What perfectionism actually is, how it affects your life, and, most importantly, how to break free and accept your imperfection are all covered in this article. We'll walk through a comprehensive journey—from defining perfectionism and exploring its roots, to applying practical strategies and learning how to heal.
By Afia Sikder2 years ago in Humans
Breaking Free from Perfectionism: Embracing the Imperfections of Being Human
Breaking Free from Perfectionism: Embracing the Imperfections of Being Human Introduction From the earliest days of childhood, many of us are taught to strive for perfection. We get high marks, awards, and praise for our flawless appearance. In a world that celebrates idealism and perfection, anything less can feel like failure. But this pursuit of flawlessness often comes at a cost: anxiety, self-doubt, exhaustion, and a disconnect from our authentic selves.
By Afia Sikder2 years ago in Humans
The Life and Legend of Lord Hanuman: A Divine Journey Through Bhakti, Power, and Eternal Service
In the vast and vivid tapestry of Indian mythology, few figures shine as brightly as Lord Hanuman—the ultimate symbol of strength, selfless devotion, and eternal service. Known by countless names—Maruti, Anjaneya, Bajrangbali, Sankat Mochan, and Mahabali—Hanuman's life is not just an epic tale of heroism but a roadmap for spiritual seekers on the path of Bhakti Marg, or pure devotion. Let us take a deep dive into the detailed journey of this awe-inspiring deity, whose name alone fills millions with strength and reverence. The Divine Birth of Hanuman: A Cosmic Convergence Hanuman’s origin is no ordinary tale. It begins in the celestial realms with Lord Shiva’s intense desire to serve Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as Shri Ram. Shiva, the supreme ascetic, took the Vanar form, signifying humility and servitude. To fulfill this divine mission, he incarnated as the son of Anjana, a cursed Apsara turned mortal, and Kesari, a mighty Vanar king. The tale of Hanuman’s birth has multiple layers, all pointing toward cosmic orchestration. One version narrates that Lord Shiva entrusted Parvati with a divine child. At Shiva’s request, Parvati handed the child over to Vayudev, the wind god, who delivered him to Anjana during her penance to Shiva. Another version tells of a divine pudding (payasam) distributed to Dasharatha for the birth of Ram, a portion of which was mystically carried by a kite to Anjana’s hands, blessing her with the child. Thus was born Maruti, named after Marut (another name for Vayudev), and destined to become Shivansh—a part of Shiva himself, manifest in the form of Hanuman.
By Sujeet M Sonar2 years ago in Humans
How ADHD Impacts Relationships: Love on a Rollercoaster
Love on the ADHD Express: How ADHD Can Shake (and Shape) Your Relationship Let’s be honest—love is already a beautiful mess. Include ADHD in the blend, and you're attempting to prepare a five-layer cake amid a tornado. It's chaotic, eccentric, and, however, now and then, out and out enchanted.
By Milan Milic2 years ago in Humans
WHY CARS ARE MORE THAN JUST VEHICLES
For some people, a car is just a way to get from point A to point B. It’s a tool, a machine designed for transportation. But for car guys — and when I say “car guys,” I mean anyone with a deep appreciation for cars, regardless of gender — a car is so much more than a vehicle. It’s a connection, a passion, a symbol of freedom, and sometimes even a lifelong companion. As we move into a world filled with electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving technology, a growing fear exists within car communities: that this emotional connection might be lost forever. Because here’s the truth — no matter how fast or efficient an EV is, it will never be able to replace the raw, visceral, soul-stirring experience of a true driver’s car. Let’s talk about why. --- It’s About the Feeling, Not Just the Speed Ask any car guy why they love cars, and chances are you won’t get a technical answer filled with stats about horsepower or 0-60 times (though those are cool too). What they’ll tell you about is how it feels. The way the engine roars to life with the turn of a key. The vibration of the gearbox as you shift through the gears. The sound of the exhaust echoing through a mountain pass at sunrise. The feel of the steering wheel fighting back as you push through a corner. These are sensations you don’t measure on a spec sheet — you feel them in your chest. It’s the reason why some people will spend their weekends elbow-deep in grease restoring an old muscle car instead of just buying a brand-new, quiet, efficient EV. Because it’s not about convenience. It’s about connection. --- Every Car Tells a Story For car enthusiasts, cars often carry stories. Maybe it was your first car, the one you worked two part-time jobs to afford. Or the road trip vehicle that carried you and your friends on an unforgettable journey one summer. Maybe it’s your father’s old pickup, still running after decades, a physical memory of simpler times. Classic cars in particular hold a kind of time-capsule magic. They remind us of eras we may have never lived through but feel connected to anyway — the roaring muscle cars of the ’60s, the sleek coupes of the ’80s, the street racing culture of the early 2000s. You can see the personality in an old car’s quirks: the stiff clutch, the stubborn carburetor, the rattling dashboard. These aren’t flaws — they’re character traits. It’s what makes each car unique, like a living thing with its own moods and behaviors. --- Why EVs Can’t Replace That Now, don’t get me wrong. EVs are the future, and in many ways, they’re impressive. Instant torque, quiet cabins, zero emissions — it’s progress we need. But for all their technological brilliance, they lack the soul that makes driving an experience rather than a task. The artificial sounds pumped into speakers, the lack of gears, the silent acceleration — it’s all clean and efficient but emotionally flat. A 1000-horsepower EV might beat a classic V8 muscle car in a drag race, but it won’t make your heart skip a beat in the same way when you floor it and feel the car come alive beneath you. Driving an old sports car with a manual transmission forces you to be part of the machine. You feel every decision. You time every shift. The engine talks to you through sound and vibration. It’s imperfect, but that’s exactly why it’s beautiful. --- It’s Not Just a Hobby — It’s a Brotherhood Car culture is about community too. Late-night meets, weekend drives, wrenching sessions in a buddy’s garage — these things build bonds between people. It’s a shared language of revs, tire smoke, and high-fives after a well-executed corner. You don’t make friends standing around a charging station talking about battery percentages. You make them out on the road, swapping stories about cars that broke down miles from home and the crazy ways you got them running again. --- In the End Cars, to car guys, are more than transportation. They’re emotion, history, rebellion, and art — all rolled into a beautiful, noisy, imperfect machine. And while EVs are here to stay, there will always be those of us who believe that nothing will ever replace the feeling of a car that talks to you, challenges you, and reminds you that driving is about more than just getting there. It’s about how you feel on the way.
By SHADOW-WRITES2 years ago in Humans
