humanity
For better or for worse, relationships reveal the core of the human condition.
Learning to See Black Men Clearly Again.
I grew up on a block where childhood felt like one long, shared backyard. We weren’t just neighbors—we were a roaming crew of kids who inherited each other because our houses shared the same sidewalk and our parents trusted the street to raise us as much as they did. The boys were Jarrett, who lived down the street; Michael, right next door; and later Brian, who moved in across from them. The girls were Valerie and her cousin Simone, and my siblings and the younger kids drifted in and out of our group depending on the day. Some friendships faded quickly, some lasted a few summers, but the only friendship from that time that truly lasted was with a girl—my best friend. That says something too.
By Travis Johnsonabout 15 hours ago in Humans
Bringing Iced Coffee to a Job Interview: Zero Professionalism, or Defending Your Soul?
Cover image created using an AI image generation tool (Gemini/Claude). Imagine you're the interviewer. A candidate knocks and walks in holding a cold, takeout iced coffee in one hand. How would that land with you?
By ConvoWorlda day ago in Humans
Birthday #39 Is Almost Here
Sean Covey once said, "It's all about how you feel, not how you look." This has always been my attitude when it comes to seeing another year. Yours truly will be celebrating a birthday in exactly a month, as I'm writing this story on October 13. As you can see by the title of this story, I'll be turning 39. If you've seen any pictures of me on Vocal, most of you would say that I don't look my age and you're right. I hilariously get mistaken by some people for a high school or college student, due to my youthful appearance. Don't get me wrong. Looking young isn't a bad trait to have, but it's not like I have this extravagant secret of how I was able to maintain my appearance. So, what's on the agenda this time around? Since it'll be the final year in my 30s, I'll treat myself to preparing two of the many favorite foods I enjoy the most. Last year on my birthday, I bought myself a nice frozen dinner, a set of slices of cheesecake, and something to drink. We all know that eating out has become even more expensive that it's basically a luxury. The last time I ate out alone for my birthday was back in 2015 when I went to Red Lobster. The last place that someone took me out on my birthday was back in 2019. My friend at the time took me out to Applebee's, had a nice meal, and the staff presented me with a birthday cake. I had a wonderful time at both places, but going out to a restaurant, whether it's fast food or casual, is extremely rare.
By Mark Wesley Pritchard a day ago in Humans
Aquarius Woman and Libra Man Compatibility Score
An Aquarius woman and Libra man can develop a connection that feels effortless from the beginning. Both Air signs, they often appreciate stimulating conversations, social experiences, and relationships that leave room for individuality.
By Inspire and Fun2 days ago in Humans
