IRJE #4 “Call It What You Want”

For the past two weeks I started reading a book named “Call It What You Want” By Alissa DeRogatis, This book has brought me lots of emotions and most of them where of angriness, frustration, and sadness. The main character, Sloane is a young girl stuck with the same guy for years, she can’t get over him which causes her a lot of problems during her young adult life. Since she broke up with  Ethan for like the 20th time, she compares every guy with him and can’t no longer be happy with neither of them. Sloane only wants to be with Ethan.

No one talks about the morning after a breakup enough. Swollen eyes.Waking up— if you were lucky enough to sleep— wondering if it was just anightmare. Realizing that it wasn’t. The pain in your heart re-appearing. No‘good morning’ text. No ‘I’m sorry I fucked up’ voicemail. Nothing. Thatwas your new reality. A cold bed, an empty stomach and an ache in your chest that you fear will never go away.

The quote from the text talks about the morning after a breakup, I related to this quote because I have felt this exact same feeling as Sloane, the feeling of an ache in your chest, unable to breath. I do not want to have this feeling ever again, even though it goes away after days is something I don’t want to experience again.

IRJE #4 – Self-Identity Struggles

The excerpt I chose to focus on for this IRJE is taken from the book Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross. In this snapshot of the fictional world, the protagonist is writing about their confusion – both towards their identity and their figurative appearance. It is clear that the character is struggling with internal conflict, and this letter captures the struggle many face in navigating the judgements of others while living a life authentic to themselves.

Do you ever feel as if you wear armor, day after day? That when people look at you, they see only the shine of steel that you’ve carefully encased yourself in? They see what they want to see in you – the warped reflection of their own face, or a piece of the sky, or a shadow cast between buildings. They see all the times you’ve made mistakes, all the times you’ve failed, all the times you’ve hurt them or disappointed them. As if that is all you will ever be in their eyes. How do you change something like that? How do you make your life your own and not feel guilt over it?

This excerpt can be considered relatable to many, including myself, as it perfectly captures the struggle between being wholly yourself and putting on a mask or, as the character puts it, armour, to portray yourself as the version you want others to see. Vulnerability is difficult; it takes courage to let down your armour, to welcome people to see you as you are. It also highlights the impact of first impressions and prejudgements. The protagonist states that everyone “sees all the times you’ve made mistakes, all the times you’ve failed, all the times you’ve hurt them or disappointed them. As if that is all you will ever be in their eyes.” Shortly after, they question how to change such undeviating perceptions. I, myself, have struggled with shaping the way others view me once they think they know exactly who I am. The fear of being defined by past errors or disappointments can be paralyzing, which can in turn prevent personal growth and the ability to redefine oneself. This is why it is so important to remain open-minded and to take on your life as your own, and no one else’s.

IRJE #4

The book that I am reading its called “IT END WITH US” and is about a girl that she explains many moments of her life. In those moments they involve her parents and some important people for her, and she is talking about good moments, bad moments and until traumatic situations.

“There is no such thing as bad people. We’re all just people who sometimes do bad things.”

What I understand from the quote is sometimes us as people make errors that can mark relations with people that you love. Not a single person in this world is bad, they just accumulate a lot of errors and maybe they fix them or they keep them like they are. By constantly creating errors, you as a person can destroy relationships that you consider important. Its normal to do errors, you just need to learn and fix your problems.

IRJE #4 “The way I used to be”

The quote I chose is

“All you have to do is act like you’re normal and okay, and people start treating you that way,”

I chose this quote because I think that it focuses on the issue of how others opinions of us and their relationships with us might be influenced by the way we look. There may be two sides to this. When we’re not at our best, it might, on the one hand, be a survival mechanism, a way to avoid unwanted attention. However, it may also work as a mask, a means of keeping our actual emotions and experiences hidden from the outside world, which eventually can become harmful and lonely. I also think that with this quote we can tell that is okay not be okay all the time, and we should be able to express our feelings and not feel the need to pretend.

PW#4 (Christmas)

Christmas for me it´s the best time of the year, Christmas is like this blend of nostalgia and anticipation. I love spending time with my family and seeing family members that I do not see often. Somehow every time I have more cousins or aunts or more family members that I didn´t know about. I have a pretty big family and I spend it mostly with my cousins that I have known since I remember so it´s very fun. My uncle always does these activities where we get prizes depending on how well we do in the activities. Every time after the activities we fought because of the places or our little cousins cried because they were last and it was so funny. And the food is always so good and we have lots of different desserts and different plates. And the presents are also so good, my grandparents and aunts give the best presents so it is really fun going to my house at 5 AM with my hands full of gifts. Also, my grandparents always have the best Christmas decorations, they always put two big Christmas trees full of lights and decorate all around the house and outside they put some lights on the trees. My closest cousins and I make a Secret Santa so it’s very fun, even though we always end up telling each other who we got in the little papers. And Christmas movies are the best. It´s the best time of the year.

#Christmas #Viral #Fyp #Happiestpersonever #Itsthebesttimeoftheyear #Gifts #Money #Secretsanta #Fun #Presents #Cold #Christmasdecorations #Christmasmovies #Nostalgia #Christmasisthebest #Family #PW4 #DanyG #DaniCani #DanyGBeckyGKarolGRickyG #ChristmasinCanada #Snow #Winter #Christmaslights #HotChocolate #ChristmasStarbucks #GoodFeeling

PW#4

Being Sick

 

Ive been sick for the past week and it feels horrible. Its back to that sick routine of chugging down cough syrup and pills and feeling fine for an hour before its back to coughing and feeling like death incarnate again. I guess there are some positives to it though. I get to sit at home all day and relax and compartmentalize my life. I get to catch up on my hobbies and interests. I get to do work without being distracted in the comfort of my own home. I get to catch up with my friends after they get home from school. Every part of being sick would be great if i didn’t feel like crap the entire time. It ruins every part of what would be a great time, it just makes me miserable.

PW#4 – Winter’s warmth

In the midst of a winter wonderland, where snowflakes gracefully pirouetted, there stood a village nestled in a landscape covered in frost. The air was brisk. The tall trees wore a glistening layer of snow. As the village slumbered beneath a blanket, a young girl ventured out into the night, guided by the moonlight that shimmered on the snow. Each step she took created a crunching sound, adding to the wintry symphony.

In the heart of the village, she stumbled upon a sled. With delight on her face, she dragged it to the top of a hill. Taking in a breath, she launched herself down with exhilaration as the wind playfully kissed her cheeks. She whirled through the snowy landscape. Reaching the bottom, her laughter filled up the stillness of the night as she lay in the snow and gazed up at the starlit sky. She felt embraced by winter’s enchantment—a world momentarily hushed in awe of this wintery spectacle.

Content and brimming with joy, she made her way home, leaving behind a trail of footprints etched into the snow’s canvas. Climbing into bed, she drifted to sleep with dreams filled with snowflakes and boundless adventures. Winter had gifted her enchantment—a reminder that there is warmth and wonder awaiting discovery during chilly seasons.

PW#4 Long standing Zhou Dynasty (Part 1)

Zhou Dynasty had a long history from 1046BC to 256BC, and it mainly cut into two parts of Eastern Zhou and Western Zhou. Western Zhou lasted from 1046BC until 771BC, and the political sphere of influence it created continued well into the Eastern Zhou period for another 500 years.

The last emperor of Shang dynasty, De Xin attached great importance to the development of agriculture and productivity, and implemented social changes to make its national strength strong. In same time he kept leading war to the southeast of China to lead war to another clan which called Dong Yi and The Shang Dynasty extended its influence to the Jianghuai area. But this also cause the domestic emptiness eventually led to the collapse of the Shang Dynasty later.

The Zhou nationality was a tribe living in the Loess Plateau of northern Shaanxi during the Shang Dynasty. In the early period of the Shang Dynasty Di Xin, the Nine Hou (also called Ghost Hou), illustrateshou and Zhou Hou (Ji Chang, later named Xibo) are merged into three princes of the Shang Dynasty. The nine Hou and the Marquis were killed by King Zhou of the Shang one after another because of the incident of the nine Hou’s daughter, and Zhou Houchang was also imprisoned in Youli. Zhou Houchang was later redeemed and given the power to invade the West by Emperor Di Xin of the Shang Dynasty, known as Xibochang. Laws were enacted to control slaves, such as “no sinners, no children” and “no dead children.” To avoid further direct conflict with the Shang Dynasty, Xibochang adopted the policy of uniting friends, eliminating Western military states and friends of the Shang Dynasty, and completing the isolation of the Shang Dynasty. But King Wen died suddenly the following year and was succeeded by his son Ji Fa as King Wu of Zhou.

King Wu of Zhou wait for a long time and finally find a great chance in War of Mu Ye. When all the main army of Di Xin striked the Dong Yi in 1046BC, King Wu decided to use this chance and mass all his 40,000 army to the Mu Ye. On February 26th, Zhou’s army all ready for the war and after the King Wu had announce all the crime that Shang (Di Xin) have done, the Shang’s army in that war was form up mainly in peasant and had no more morale and defeat utterly, in this war Zhou’s army had kill 180,000 of Di Xin army. After this war, Di Xin escaped back to Zhao Ge and commit suicide which lead to the end of Dynasty Shang.

During the reign of King You, the Zhou Chamber disintegrated and collapsed. Guo was reappointed by King You of Zhou to govern the state, but he was fond of profit and corruption, and sent the seized wealth to Xiang Yi, which was widely resented by the Chinese people. Two years of earthquake, landslide and drought, the people believe that this is caused by a bad emperor.

The decision of King You to abolish the crown prince pushed Western Zhou into the abyss. King You of Zhou attacked the Kingdom of Bao and obtained Bao Si, whom he love very much. King You of Zhou removed the daughter and crown prince of Marquis Xishen and appointed Baosi and his son Bofu as crown prince, so that he could only return to the Kingdom of Xishen. Shen Hou allied with Zeng and Xirong to support Yizu, and King You of Zhou also sent an army against Xishen the following year. Finally, Shen Zeng led Xirong and Quanrong to defeat King You of Zhou which meant the end of Western Zhou.

PW#4 continue of “The Sailor”

In a dark stormy night, across the North Atlantic Ocean there was this enormous cruise that was only for rich people. Most of them were happy and cheerful except for this man, sitting alone at the bar table looking down. You can see he was disappointed or missing someone far away, whom he loved.
This man was so suspicious everybody thought that he was a criminal but all those thoughts were killed because of his beautiful navy colored suit and that particularly small white hat of his. Everybody at that time knew he was a sailor.        The ship was so unstable but why didn’t he go help the captain to control the ship? – continue of the last personal writing.

Well this man was named Donald, He had this perfect life as a sailor before everything had happened he had a wonderful family and a beautiful wife. Was he tired? No he just missed his wife why you may ask well it’s not that they could see each other easily again his wife was taken away by her friend Mickey, she had been missing for 2 months but Donald has to keep his job to take care of his parents so he didn’t went and find his wife.

Luckily, he saw Mickey on the ship he never knew Mickey was a rich man. He also didn’t expect to meet him here. Mickey told him,’ Daisy is here, go handle the ship and I will bring you to her.’ So  Donald went to help the captain, so everyone did not doubted him again. Then he found Mickey at the bar table and had a couple drinks. Afterwards Mickey brought him to this dark place.

What happened next? Wait for the next Personal writing!

PW #4: Lethally in Love – Chapter 2: A familiar feeling

Cyane’s heat skipped a beat. A heart wrenching feeling, that she guiltily shoved down into the pit of her chest. “Perrrrrrresephone, my girl” Daphne stretched, smiling in a awkwardly “We were just talking about youuuuu, how have you been?”. Cyane slapped her forehead, as the sinking feeling in her stomach only grew deeper with every second. “Oh! I’m quite fine thank-you Daphne… I’m sorry you were what?”. “It’s nothing!” Cyane interjected quickly, shielding Persephone from Daphne’s fiery glare. “Yeah…” Daphne stretched again over Cyane’s shoulder. Her voice rung in a slithery way that she used to get under peoples skin. Persephone, looked uncomfortable as she shifted her weight and fiddled with her hair like she always did when she was nervous. “Oh, dear me, I don’t think I’ve told you this yet” Daphne blurted suddenly ” But Cyane’s been seeing a little someone on the side, isn’t that cute?”. “Who!” Persephone blurted, a hint of anger seething into her voice. Daphne smirked at Persephone as Cyane stood in confliction.

Was that anger in her voice? Could She be jealous of… me? “Oh its nothing really” Cyane added casually, her words getting caught up in the moment. What am I doing? Daphne winked at Cyane in reassurance . “W-Who is it” Persephone said with a longed smile. Oh no? what am I supposed to say, Aries doesn’t even like me. But deep in Cyane a fluttery happy feeling spread in her. A guilty pleasure. She hated seeing Persephone nervous and defensive like that. But the way jealousy seeped into Persephone’s voice made Cyane happy in a way she couldn’t put her finger on.

“You wouldn’t believe it if I told you. My sneaky little Cyane has found her way around to a God” Daphne sang putting her arm around Cyane. “Oh, its really not that big of a deal” Cyane mumbled “Aries has just been visiting me every now and then. He’s really not all that bad- we’re just friends though” .Her face flushing red from the insidious lie. “*Gasp* your blushing, Cyane!” Daphne teased turning her attention away from Persephone. “Sorry Pers did you say something?” Daphne said, a small smirk on her face. Persephone looked deep into Cyane, Sending a cascade of butterflies into Cyane’s stomach.

“Sorry I haven’t been talked with you in a while Cyane, I would have loved to hear about You and Aries earlier. I’ve just been down in with Hades in the Underworld” Persephone started, her gaze focused on Cyane. “Oh, yeah didn’t he kidnap you?” Daphne teased tensely, her eyes narrowing at Persephone. “Oh, no of course not! I mean I can see how that could be mis-interpreted but Hades has been treating me with such care and love. He can be really charming you know?” Persephone whisper dreamily, as she fiddled with her hair. “Did you come here to say something or why are you here” Cyane blurted, her jealously practically seething through her breath. Persephone looked startled for a second “Sorry I just wanted to see you again. But now that you mention it I really do have to be going”. Daphne waved goodbye to Persephone as she left hesitantly, occasionally looking over her shoulder as she walked away from their spring.

Cyane faced the cliff of the spring as Persephone left. A rage of emotions awakened by Persephone as she sputtered on about stupid Hades. Him and his stupid kidnapping and girlfriend stealing and- and stupid charming smiles. The stupid king she ripped my heart out for. Cyane thought as she fought back tears. “What was that? the tension between you two was tense enough to cut it with a dagger!” Daphne blurted rolling her eyes, as she swam to stand beside Cyane “And did you see her, she was practically shooting daggers at- oh gods, what happened?”. Cyane turned around to Daphne, her lip quivering. Suddenly all her anger and jealousy crashed down onto her. A tear fell from her eyes, and soon Cyane was sobbing. Uncontrollably. Suddenly Daphne’s warm arms wrapped around Cyane and Cyane fell into them. “*hic* I just- why would she leave me like that?”. Daphne patted her head, in her own hesitant way of condolement. “Because she isn’t worth your time Cyane. She was too blind to see your kick ass personality. So there’s no use in crying over selfish smug goddesses.”. Cyane stopped crying for a moment, her head still drooped into Daphne’s chest. “Set me up with Aries” Cyane whispered to Daphne. “What?” Daphne blurted “A-Are you sure?”. Cyane felt her anger swell up in her chest again before responding. She leveled her eyes to Daphne’s, her eyes still red from crying. “Please”.

PW #4 Paty and Miguel

Let me tell you a little story about a boy and a girl, Paty and Miguel. Paty was late to her first day of high school. There were no seats available because the classroom was full. The teacher told Paty to go out, and find a chair to sit in. Miguel, a chivalrous boy, stood up and gave Paty his seat. For Miguel it was love at first sight, for Paty… he was just a nice friend. Time passed, and they became each other’s best friend, confident and easily explained, each other’s ride or die. Whatever Paty decided to do or wherever she wanted to go Miguel followed. On one of the last days of high school, they knew that they loved each other, and wanted to continue to be in each others lives. Miguel asked Paty if he could be his boyfriend, and well, as they say, the rest is history. They got married and have three gorgeous daughters Melissa, Ines and Regina.

PW#4 Under the Sea

Once upon a time, in the mysterious dark sea. Below the surface, there are 2 crazy, mischievous-looking creatures. As you expected it was a sea monster, well we don’t know what the creature is but it possibly could be anything in the world but the possible thing is a sea monster right?

Well, the sea monsters that are under the sea, they doing something that is the same as the human being. They are not using their phones but instead, they are playing UNO. Yes, UNO likes the games that kids play possibly adults too. Well, that’s crazy that underneath the surface monsters are playing UNO.

Well, if someone going below the surface I hope you take a picture of the sea monster playing UNO and bring some more cards so the sea monster won’t eat you as their dinner meal.

Personal Writing #4 Conviction

“I would rather to die from my own sword that from someone’s else.” Gary Vaynerchuk in “Twelve and a half.”

Conviction represents those feelings and beliefs that keeps you motivated and makes you enjoy the process to achieve your goals no matter what; but in the last years most of the people have lost conviction in the last years, just think about it, a lot of people prefers to have a good salary than doing what they love to do, lets create a story to make it clear, Andy since high school wanted to become an artist, he enjoyed painting and demonstrated it with his unique and well-made works. But as the time passed Andy’s conviction was decreasing because of the bad comments and beliefs of him from the people around him that just wanted to see him give up. The years passed and Andy lost total conviction as he decided to dedicate himself to something else that he disliked but that guaranteed him a stable future asking himself every day “What would have happened if…? So the story showed us what happens without conviction and believe it or not those stories represents the lives of many people. Also the question “What would have happened if?” sounds like the saddest question in the whole world; because it shows that you chose or committed something of what you regrets. Like I said, conviction frees you from the “swords” of others leaving all your belifies, feelings and motivations alone and it eliminates the question “What would have happened if?” Conviction only leaves you with your own sword making you respondible and independent of your own actions; and if you fail you will carry all the responsibility making you free and improving yourself by creating new beliefs, feelings and motivations and also improving your conviction.

PW#4 Christmas time

The snow is falling, the lights are bright, It’s Christmas time, what a delight!

The air is filled with love and cheer, As we gather with those we hold dear.

The presents wrapped with bows and strings, The carolers sing and angels sing.

The smell of cookies fills the air, And laughter echoes everywhere. The children’s eyes are full of glee, As they wait for Santa’s sleigh to see.

The stockings hung with care and love, Are filled with gifts from up above.

So let us cherish this special day, And keep the spirit alive in every way.

For Christmas is a time of joy and peace, And may it never, ever cease.

PW #4 – Road Rage Created from Impatience

Personally, rage is an unexplainable feeling that builds up through constant irritation or frustration. It engulfs you like a warm blanket twice your size, except it’s the middle of a heatwave and not a cold winter morning.

When speaking of a broader range of my experiences with rage, I am mainly referring to being impatient. This impatience usually arises when I am being driven to and from school. As I live a far distance from school, the time I spend in a car per day consists of approximately two hours. Usually, the drive should only take about thirty to forty-five minutes. However, Sooke (the town I live in) is a rapidly growing town with one road in and out. As my brother slowly inches forward every couple of seconds and two lanes fail to merge on a Wednesday evening, I can feel the impatience and annoyance augment inside me. I begin complaining, blaming anyone I possibly can for the horrible traffic even if it is not anyone’s fault.

Although I am aware that road rage can escalate to violence and violent actions, the only way I felt I could try to understand is through relating experiences and sympathizing. Perhaps they had a horrible day and just needed to get home when some driver made a mistake on the road, or maybe this person is insecure about their driving, or they are just plain old impatient. When it comes to driving, people need to be extremely careful as one mistake could be fatal to someone’s life. Being impatient and angry blurs your view when making rational decisions. So, please be careful on the road!

PW #4 A Dark Christmas – Liath

Little boy Timmy stayed this whole night awake

To prove to his friends that big old Santa wasn’t a fake.

He spent the night hiding under his tree.

He never once got up, not even to pee.

And no matter how much he wanted to sleep,

He followed his task, ’till he saw it complete.

Suddenly befell a large thump on the roof,

And soon in the chimney, happened a ‘poof’!

‘Santa’? he asked, as a wonder filled fan,

Then he was startled to find out Santa, was none other than Morgan Freeman.

Yes he had become an actor to pay his bills.

Santa could do it all, from toys to great films.

Timmy gave Santa a hug and fell asleep in his arms,

And woke up the next day, safe from all harm.

He told his friends his story, down to the last ho ho ho.

His popularity rose and little boy Timmy became the king of his ghetto.

PW #4 “Poker”

Poker has strategic and dynamic gameplay, it has become a pastime for me. Despite my age, I find the game’s complexity and strategic depth to be both intellectually stimulating and socially engaging.

Beyond the initial charm of the cards, there’s a fascinating use of psychology and tactics that keeps me hooked. Understanding opponents, bluffing, and making calculated decisions add layers of excitement to every hand. I believe poker is a mental chess match that requires cleverness and adaptability.

While I am aware of the importance of the responsibility you need to play, I believe that poker, when approached with a thoughtful mindset, serves as an approach for skill development and strategic thinking. The strategic choices and decision-making processes made in the game contribute to my personal growth and mental curiosity.

PW #4: A simple question

Have you ever had a simple question you always struggle to answer when asked? For a while I struggled to define my favorite season. I found it difficult to choose – each season had its own merits, and the best one seemed to be the one at the time.

In springtime, I love the fresh crispness of the air; the exalting way that the daffodils burst out of their buds; the cool clear spring water in the streams trickling down from the mountains; and the color everywhere as everything which seemed dead returns to life.

In summer, I love the cool of the ocean in a midday swim; the sunflowers cheerfully shining up at the sky; the warm breeze tugging eagerly at your hair; and the stars sparkling, in a somber black sky over the tents in a campsite.

In autumn, I love the crunch of pumpkin leaves under boots; the rain transforming the world to a mysterious gray, with flashes of thunder in the distance; the rainbow of leaves on the trees in the parks; and the whistling leaps of the wind through the beams.

However, I realized recently that my favorite season is winter. I love the warmth of a mug of creamy hot chocolate; the lazy drifting of a crystal snowflake in the chilling air; the contrast of colors, from white snow and blue frost to cozy red Santa hats and warm gingerbread cookies; the scent of pine needles fallen under the tree; the glitter of sparkling lights on the trees in the park; and the feeling of a winter morning, spent surrounded by freshly packed snow, carving an icy fort. For me, winter is the time when I see my family and friends, and good cheer is all around.

Matteo Eden Personal Writing #4 Poem The Path of Life

Life is like a path,

a path that leads you from the moment you are born,

to the time you die.

these paths have lots of choices along the way,

Your path can be easy,

but doing what is easy isn’t always right,

one wrong path might be the right decision.

The path you take is up to you,

don’t let others choose for you.

-Matteo Eden

 

PW#4 My 17 Birthday!

I hate my birthday.My birthday creates mixed emotions, particularly on November 18. The day brings a sense of guilt and heart pressure, surrounded by the tradition of receiving gifts and hugs. The act of people spending considerable money on me and singing happy birthday creates discomfort, making the day less special to me.

However this last birthday here on Brookes with my friends I actually enjoyed it. It changed the perspective on my birthday. It made me calm down and actually realize the good things. All the hugs, cheers, smiles, and gifts I received made me have for the first time a good birthday experience. All my friends and my family from far away made it so special in many ways and It just makes me be so thankfully for them.

I can see a personal growth in my attitude towards my birthday. I anticipate a transformative shift on November 18 next year, where a big smile will grow on my face, and I’ll appreciate the moment. My perspective has evolved, and I now regard my birthday as a truly special day to celebrate with the people I love most.

 

Winter in Mexico

I this personal writing I want to talk about going back to Mexican December, I am so excited because its something that I have been waiting before a long time and I am excited because im going to see my family my dog and my new born cousin Andrea, I am also exciting because I miss so much the hotness of the beached going to the sea and spending all the time in summer clothes.

PW #4, “It’s Christmas Time”

In this Personal Writing I will talk about one of my favorite topics: CHRISTMAS!!

It’s already December and my favorite time of the year has come, Christmas. Since I was a child I have loved Christmas, I see it as the most wonderful time of the year because it’s the time for love, family, be grateful, be all together, and the most important and fun thing, snow. Probably snow it’s my favorite thing on earth, I love cold and having Rudolph’s nose (all red). I love that with snow comes the exciting things such as making snow angels, snowmans, skiing, ice skating, hot chocolate, etc. Every year during Christmas my family goes to ski to Whistler, except this time because I will go back to Mexico and during Christmas and New Year we’ll be in NYC, something different but I think it’ll be fun too.

PW #4 -Terry the Talented Toe Tapper

“Top of the mornin’ to ya my terrific travellers! Today’s television Tuesday, Terry the Talented Toe Tapper will tell us all their tremendous tricks and why their trendy toe tapping continues to tantalize the total territory of the Tri-Town area. Tell us Terry, why toe tapping?”

“Thanks, Tom. Truthfully, this type of two-step got taught to me by my teacher in tenth grade. Their tactics truly seemed top-notch at the time, in truth, they tended towards tone-deaf tapping tricks.”

“Terribly traumatic. Triumphant times come from troubling trials, isn’t that true, Terry?”

“Typically, Tod.”

“Thanks for talking Terry, truly a treat.”

𝓓𝓸𝓷’𝓽 𝓛𝓸𝓸𝓴 – 𝓟𝓦#4

𝚃𝚘 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚑𝚘𝚕𝚍 𝚘𝚏 𝚙𝚊𝚒𝚗, 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚗𝚎𝚎𝚍𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚙𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚒𝚜𝚝

𝚂𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚊𝚌𝚌𝚎𝚙𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚗𝚘 𝚐𝚘𝚍 𝚗𝚘𝚛 𝚐𝚘𝚍𝚍𝚎𝚜𝚜 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚗 𝚋𝚎𝚐𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚘 𝚞𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚗𝚍.

𝙰𝚗 𝚞𝚗𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚛𝚘𝚕𝚕𝚊𝚋𝚕𝚢 𝚜𝚙𝚒𝚛𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚍, 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚔𝚗𝚎𝚠 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚒𝚏 𝚜𝚑𝚎  𝚍𝚒𝚍 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚗𝚘𝚠, 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚒𝚖𝚙𝚕𝚢 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚎𝚡𝚒𝚜𝚝

𝚂𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚢𝚎𝚍, 𝚠𝚎𝚙𝚝, 𝚜𝚘𝚊𝚔𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚏𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚛𝚒𝚖𝚜𝚘𝚗 𝚖𝚊𝚛𝚔 𝚘𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚠𝚊𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚋𝚊𝚗𝚍.

 

𝚆𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚋𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚑 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚑𝚊𝚍 𝚕𝚎𝚏𝚝, 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚐𝚐𝚎𝚍, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚙𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚎𝚍

“𝚃𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚖𝚎 𝚊𝚠𝚊𝚢” 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚘𝚏𝚝𝚕𝚢 𝚖𝚞𝚖𝚋𝚕𝚎𝚜, 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚠𝚎𝚎𝚝 𝚝𝚘𝚞𝚌𝚑 𝚘𝚏 𝚍𝚎𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚛𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚒𝚗 𝚠𝚑𝚒𝚌𝚑 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚘𝚞𝚝𝚠𝚎𝚒𝚐𝚑.

“𝙿𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎, 𝚍𝚘𝚗’𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚖𝚎 𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎” 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚎𝚍. 𝚃𝚘 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚍, 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚌𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚍 𝚏𝚘𝚛, 𝚒𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚜𝚘 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚌𝚎𝚒𝚝𝚎𝚍?

𝙼𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚙𝚜 𝚊𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚛𝚎𝚖𝚊𝚒𝚗𝚎𝚍 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚜𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚐𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚎. 𝚆𝚒𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚖, 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠𝚗 𝚗𝚘 𝚜𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚍𝚞𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚍𝚊𝚛𝚔𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚍𝚊𝚢𝚜.

 

𝚂𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚗 𝚊 𝚑𝚘𝚜𝚙𝚒𝚝𝚊𝚕 𝚛𝚘𝚘𝚖 𝚊𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚊𝚒𝚛 𝚒𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚌𝚔 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚙𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚗𝚘𝚒𝚊 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚜𝚑𝚊𝚖𝚎. 𝙱𝚘𝚢, 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚞𝚛𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚐𝚜 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝙷𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚘𝚏 𝙵𝚊𝚖𝚎.

𝚆𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚜 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚛𝚒𝚜𝚔𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚝 𝚊𝚕𝚕,  𝚖𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚊𝚜 𝚠𝚎𝚕𝚕 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚜𝚜𝚞𝚖𝚎𝚍 𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚏 𝚍𝚒𝚜𝚘𝚠𝚗𝚎𝚍.

𝙰𝚕𝚕 𝚏𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚙𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚊𝚝 𝚑𝚎𝚛, 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚎𝚕𝚜𝚎 𝚍𝚒𝚍 𝚊𝚗𝚢𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚕𝚊𝚖𝚎?

𝚂𝚑𝚎 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠𝚜 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚊𝚍𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚌𝚊𝚕𝚕. 𝙱𝚞𝚝 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚕𝚒𝚣𝚎, 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢 𝚠𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚘𝚗𝚎𝚜 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚙𝚘𝚜𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚝𝚘 𝚊𝚝𝚘𝚗𝚎?

 

𝙸𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚖𝚋𝚎𝚛, 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚘-𝚌𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚋𝚎𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚍 𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚛

𝙵𝚘𝚛 𝚘𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎, 𝚘𝚏 𝚊𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗, 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚍𝚒𝚍 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚛.

𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚍𝚜 𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚒𝚙𝚞𝚕𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚍, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚋𝚛𝚊𝚒𝚗𝚠𝚊𝚜𝚑𝚎𝚍  𝚙𝚛𝚒𝚌𝚔𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚞𝚙𝚘𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚜.

𝙸𝚗 𝚞𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚞𝚒𝚜𝚑 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚊 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚜𝚞𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚜𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚙 𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚞𝚙𝚘𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚜𝚔𝚒𝚗, 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚍 𝚋𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚜.

 

𝙰𝚜 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚊𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎, 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝, “𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚖𝚊𝚢 𝚋𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚛𝚜𝚝 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢 𝚑𝚊𝚍 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚜𝚎𝚎𝚗 𝚖𝚎 𝚜𝚘 𝚜𝚖𝚊𝚕𝚕”.

𝙸𝚝 𝚝𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚙𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚛 𝚕𝚎𝚏𝚝 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚑𝚊𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚞𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚍𝚜 “𝙿𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎, 𝚌𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚎𝚢𝚎𝚜, 𝚍𝚘𝚗’𝚝 𝚕𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚎

𝚆𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚙𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚏𝚞𝚕 𝚙𝚒𝚎𝚛𝚌𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚜, 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚏𝚎𝚕𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚞𝚛𝚐𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚊𝚠𝚕.

𝚃𝚘𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢 𝚜𝚊𝚠 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚛𝚊𝚠, 𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚍𝚊𝚒𝚕𝚢 𝚍𝚒𝚜𝚐𝚞𝚒𝚜𝚎. 𝚂𝚑𝚎 𝚏𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚘𝚏𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚗𝚎𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚏𝚕𝚎𝚎.

 

𝚆𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎 𝚝𝚛𝚢𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚘 𝚓𝚞𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚏𝚢?

𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚜𝚊𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚜, 𝚜𝚑𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚗𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚋𝚎 𝚊𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚙𝚎𝚗𝚜𝚊𝚝𝚎.

𝙷𝚘𝚠 𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚊 𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚜𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚙𝚎𝚘𝚙𝚕𝚎, 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚒𝚗𝚍𝚒𝚟𝚒𝚍𝚞𝚊𝚕 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛 𝚗𝚘𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚗 𝚝𝚘 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚘𝚞𝚝𝚌𝚛𝚢?

𝙵𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎-𝚜𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚍𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚜𝚒𝚘𝚗, 𝚜𝚑𝚎  𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚊𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝚋𝚎 𝚊𝚗 𝚊𝚍𝚟𝚘𝚌𝚊𝚝𝚎.

-𝓣𝓲𝓼𝓱 𝓢.

PW#4 Beautiful Things

Some say the most beautiful things in the world can not be seen or even touched, they must be felt by the heart. I agree in some aspects but I’d also say that I’ve seen some incredibly beautiful things. I cant imagine feeling something more beautiful than seeing the sunset from a 40 person tall ship in desolation sound surrounded by people I’ve just created an incredible bond with. I can’t imagine feeling something more beautiful than watching the snow fall from the window beside your bed, cushioning the harshness of the world and calming the noise of civilization. I can’t imagine a feeling that can surpass the beauty of finally catching a glimpse of the lake you’ve been hiking to for the past three hours. All of these sights of course, are tied to emotion and maybe that’s what they mean. Maybe the warmth in my heart and the joy I feel when I see these things, is the feeling that some say is  more beautiful than anything. Maybe it’s love or passion or something too phylisophical for someone like me to be writing about but I believe that I’ve seen truly beautiful things.

PW #3 How Beautiful is Reading?

How beautiful is reading? I read to relax, I read to escape and among other things, I read to be come completely immersed within someone else’s story while abandoning my own. I read to learn what happens next, why he lied to her and why she loves him nonetheless. I become someone else and forget myself. I am able to forget my preferences, my dislikes, and let myself re-set. I find the similarities between myself and the newest all encompassing subject of my focus to make the joining of my being to theirs seamless. I can travel worlds, social classes and so much more all within the comfort of my own bed. Last night I was a witch, breaking my bones to trade for the power I wielded. I ran from the gorgeous witch hunter attempting to take my life. Last week I was the personification of Life re-incarnated, falling hopelessly in love with Death and denying Fate who had loved me since I had given up my existence hundreds of years ago. Next week who knows what I can be, where I can go or what I can experience. Maybe life will be better, full of exploration and beauty, finding true love and everything that comes with it. Perhaps I’ll be living in the streets, learning how to become a better person or imprisoned by my greatest enemy. What excites me most, when I have finished a book and long for the kingdom I’ll never get to visit and the love of my life that I’ll never get to meet, Is the endless amount of lives I’ll get to experience in the future

PW#4 – The Christmas Feeling – Haiku

Christmas time is near
Let’s bring the holiday cheer,
The season of joy.

Cold December night,
Moon and stars brighten the sky,
In twinkling lights.

The smell of cookies,
Wafting through the Winter air,
Brings warmth to the house.

Blanketed in white,
It’s a Winter wonderland,
Snowflakes float on down.

The fire crackles,
Warming up the house as the,
cold breeze wails outside.

The Grand Noble Fir,
Lit candles on the branches,
At last, it’s Christmas.

Stockings filled with toys,
Gingerbread and peppermint,
Snowmen and sledding.

Old man dressed in red,
Climbing out of a chimney,
On a peaceful night.

Christmas in the snow,
Reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh,
Jingle bells I hear.

Christmas lights aglow,
The clip-clop of reindeer feet,
Christmas time is here.

PR #4 – Pumping Iron

Going to the gym allows me to detach from life and concentrate on improving my physical fitness, mental tenacity and forming discipline. As Arnold Schwarzenegger once said, “Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender that is strength.” This motto can be applied to any aspect of life. Studying, exercise, working a job, etc. It shows that the real strength comes from undergoing hardships, especially when it is difficult, and persevering even when you don’t want to. Without discipline you would simply be a feather in the wind, being blown around by what life throws at you. The average procrastinator lacks discipline. One who wakes up and chooses to delay the difficult things in order to receive instant gratification. For example, lying in your bed scrolling on social media rather than completing an academic assignment. In the end, those who lack discipline wander through life with a sense of stress and anxiety due to the fact that they must go through life while constantly fighting their own brain.

PW #4 – In A Few Years…

“Write about a time you failed, and learned”, my father said. I have been pondering what to write about for my application to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology university (MIT). As I sit at my desk with Auggie (my dog), the Personal Project I did in grade 10 two years ago, comes to my mind. I think to myself, “Damn you Laura, why’d you have to pick neuroscience? I mean, it’s fascinating, but now I have to write this 10,000 word report on why I want to be accepted”. I’ve written a few paragraphs so far, but still have a long way to go. I decide to take a break. As I slump to the kitchen for the left-over salmon pasta, my sister Simona, who is 14, gives me a glare. I remark with a, “What?”, “You promised to drive me to Olivia’s but you’re still in your pajamas.” she says with a sad tone. “Oh, shoot, sorry. Let me get dressed and we’ll go”, “Thank you Laura! You are the best sister in the whole wide world!” she states with enthusiasm. We drive to Olivia’s.

PR #3 – Soldier’s Home

Ernest Hemingway’s Soldier’s Home is a thought-provoking narrative which delves into the life of a young soldier upon returning from war. It explores the struggles and psychological difficulties that soldiers face when transitioning back to civilian life. Harold Krebs is portrayed as this detached, unemotional character, as seen on the last page, where he talks to his sister and mother, unaffected by his mother crying. This goes to show the sheer impact that war has on people and that trauma seriously impacts quality of life on the world as a whole, as it impairs him from properly communicating with those around him and picking up on certain social cues.

PW#4 – Curiosity

Curiosity. The word itself, a collection of letters strung together to form a cohesive meaning, conveys little to most and none to some. It is simply that: a word. To me, curiosity is boundless. It surrounds me. No moment passes where I don’t question or inquire, challenge or scrutinize. My brain is constantly whirring, looking for answers to questions I may never find. Throughout childhood, some are told that “curiosity kills the cat,” a cautionary tale to temper inquisitive nature. What if curiosity did not kill the cat, but set it free? What if curiosity led it to new places, new experiences, where it found the answers to unvoiced questions? Truthfully, I believe that it does not act as a threat but as a beacon. Curiosity has been my lifelong companion, guiding me and shedding light on my darkest and most uncertain moments. As a child, curiosity held my hand as I walked through the explorative stages of life. I did not know my own name, let alone the vast world I had been thrust into. It was my constant need for answers, and my insatiable appetite for knowledge, that led me to grow into the person I am today. Now, looking towards the future, I am cognizant that I know absolutely nothing. Nothing of my plans, nothing of tomorrow, and certainly nothing of who I am to become. Yet, paradoxically, this acknowledgement of the vast unknown ahead of me allows me to find a profound sense of liberation. Fear does not drive me; my curiosity allows me to gaze into the future with a sense of wonder and anticipation. The beauty of tomorrow lies within the truth that no one knows. To claim that you know your purpose, or your plans, or even yourself fully, is to confine the nature of human potential within the narrow walls of certainty. I find beauty in the uncertainty, the curious exhilaration. I wonder who I will become tomorrow. I hope my curiosity will forever accompany me. Curiosity.

 

PW#3 Rich Shang Dynasty

Shang Dynasty, also well known as Yin Shang Dynasty, which was second dynasty of Chinese history, it was meaningful because it pioneered the trade system in Chinese history. That’s also one of the reason that the dynasty was named as “Shang”, in Chinese the spelling of trade was exactly Shang.

The creator of Shang, Wang Hai pioneered Chinese commercial trade, so he is revered as the ancestor of Chinese merchants. At the same time, because Wang Hai is also the ancestor of the Shang Dynasty, this trading activity is called commerce, and the origin of merchants’ goods is also the same. During the period of King Zhou of the Shang Dynasty, commerce and trade had become an important part of the social structure. Xiqi gradually became stronger due to the rise of commerce, threatening the rule of the Yin Shang Dynasty.

The end of Xia Dynasty, the King Xia Jie be specially fond of and trust unduly his Queen Mei Xi, and increase the tax of other tribes in his territory. People don’t have great time due to the high tax. At this time the tribe Shang had keep advancing, noble Yi Sun had giving Shang Tang a lot of great advices and sent the first spy of Chinese history into Xia. Finally on BC 1600, they assault XIa Dynasty which lead the famous battle of Mingtiao。

At Battle of Mingtiao, Shang Tang lead 6000 army and other tribes military powers to detour from the back of Xia Jie and have final battle in Mingtiao and destroy the main army of Xia Jie, XIa Jie escape to Nan Chao and die due to the disease.

Because Shang Tang destroyed Xia by force and broke the idea that the king would be eternal, it was called the “aristocratic revolution” in history. After Tang established the Shang Dynasty, he relaxed internal expropriation, encouraged production, and appeased the people, thereby expanding his ruling area and influencing as far as the upper reaches of the Yellow River. The Di and Qiang tribes came to pay tribute and submit.

Matteo Eden IRJE #3 Stone Fox

“Stone Fox” by John Reynolds Gardiner is a very exciting and thrilling tale that follows a young boy named Little Willy and his loyal dog Searchlight as they enter a dogsled race in an attempt to save their farm from financial collapse.  Gardiner creates an excellent narrative that explores themes of determination, courage, and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals. The author’s descriptions of the long race and the harsh winter create a powerful atmosphere that immerses readers in the story. leaving readers with a lasting impression.

“When you’re out there with the lead dog, you can’t ever stop and look back, ’cause there’s always someone or something gaining on you.”

This quote captures the key component of the novel, showing the importance of perseverance and forward momentum in the face of adversity. “Stone Fox” is a timeless and emotionally testing story that is great for readers of all ages, delivering a powerful message about the strength that lies within the human heart.

PW #3 “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee”

Muhammad Ali, the legendary boxer and charismatic figure, serves as a symbol of resilience and self-belief. Beyond his skills in the boxing ring, Ali’s life is a testament to the power of conviction and the courage to stand up for one’s principles. His famous words, “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee”, not only encapsulate his boxing style but also reflect a philosophy of grace and strength in the face of challenges. Ali’s journey from adversity to triumph inspires us to embrace our uniqueness, fight for what we believe in, and, above all, to have the unwavering confidence to conquer life’s ring with resilience and a sense of purpose.

IRJE #3 The seven husbands of Evelyn Hugo

“You can be sorry about something and not regret it,” Evelyn says.”
Taylor Jenkins Reid, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

In this parts Evelyn talks about the things she had to do to success in the film industry, this quote really stick to me because I found it really real, in life things would happen that makes you feel sad, sorry, angry; but deep down you know they needed to happen so you can be able to be the person you are now, you’ll have to do things that will hurt others, but those thing have to be done so you don’t get hurt, people should learn to put themselves first and accept that somethings are meant to happen even if they hurt.

IRJE #3 (If he had been with me)

I’m reading the novel “If he had been with me” and so far so good, I love the connection that Finny and Autumn have even though in the part of the book that I´m at they don’t really hang out much.

“I sat with him for three hours and we did not exchange a single word. At the end, he handed me, as he had done before, an envelope with money in it.” pp. 206.

I love this quote because it shows how people can still connect after years of not “knowing each other” and how you can connect with someone and get to know them even though you do not exchange a single word.

Asia’s IRJE#3

 

But sometimes you can’t control where your mind goes. You just have to train it not to go there anymore.

 The quote expresses the idea that certain thoughts and memories can be difficult to control or suppress, but with practice and effort, it is possible to train the mind to avoid dwelling on them. It suggests that our thoughts and emotions are within our control, and we have the power to shape them for our benefit. The quote is from the book “It Ends with Us” by Colleen Hoover and is spoken by the character Lily in a letter to Ellen.

IRJE#2 It ends with us

 

I recently started reading the book “It Ends with Us” written by Colleen Hoover. The book tells the story of a young woman named Lily who finds herself caught in a love triangle between two men – one of which is her first love, and the other is a mysterious stranger. As the story unfolds, Lily discovers secrets from the past that threaten to disrupt her present and possibly her future. The book explores themes of love, loss, forgiveness, and the complexities of relationships.

I feel like everyone fakes who they are when deep down we’re all equal amounts of screwed up. Some of us are just better at hiding it than others.

~Colleen Hoover, It Ends with Us, (Character: Lily Bloom as the narrator), Chapter 1, Page 16

This quote expresses the idea that people often pretend to be someone they are not and that everyone has their flaws and struggles. The quote suggests that despite our differences, we are all fundamentally the same in that we all experience challenges and imperfections. The difference lies in how well we can conceal our flaws from others. The quote implies that it is important to be authentic and honest with oneself and others, rather than trying to present a perfect image.

IRJE #3 Accountability.

Lately I have been reading the book of “Twelve and a half” from Gary Vaynerchuk. This book is about the important values in business success and also in life. I got a little quote that goes like this.

“I prefer to die by my own sword than from someone else’s.”

This quote is from the chapter called “Accountability” which it explains that is very to fail because of your own desicions, beliefs and actions than from someone else’s, like you have to be independent and take moves by yoursefl and if you fail it would be only your responsability.

 

IRJE #3: Crimson Rain Sought Flower

I continued reading the Chinese novel from my past entry. It’s called “Heaven Official’s Blessing” (天官賜福) by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu (莫想童秀). The story is really interesting. I always enjoy reading about deities and this book is not the exception. In this quotation, we have the main characters talking. The one referred as “the youth” is young man who was friends with the main character, the one who is a God who was fallen from the heavens multiple times.

In the mortal Realm, it was easy to find books on lore that spoke of the stories of gods and ghosts, the subjects ranging from their kindness and grudges to trivialities. Some were real and some fake. It wasn’t odd that the youth knew so much.

Xie Lian put down his scroll “Then, my friend, you know about gods, but do you know about ghosts too?”

“Which ghost?” the youth asked.

Xie Lian replied, “Crimson Rain Sought Flower, Hua Cheng.” (p.172)

I chose this fragment because of the philosophy it is talking about. Is everything that we read about the gods real? How can we know when it’s not?

This quotation contains the first mention of Hua Chen. He’s relevant for the novel since his first apparition. We could say he’s also one of the main characters.

IRJE#3

Lately I’ve been reading a new book called “Night” by Elie Wiesel. This book  “Night” is the terrifying record of Elie Wiesel’s memories of the death of his family. I got this small paragraph that I love how he describes it. It goes like

  Crammed into cattle cars by the Hungarian police, they cried silently. Standing on the station platform, we too were crying. The train disappeared over the horizon; all that was left was thick, dirty smoke.                                                                  p.6

I love the short paragraph because of hoe descriptive it is and I hope I can have writing like this after reading an image would pop up in the reader’s head so I will improve until I can do that

IRJE #3 – Stay away

In this quote from the book I’m currently reading The Hawthorne Legacy by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, one of the a potential moles in the Hawthorne house is scolding the main character.

“You should be ashamed of yourself,” Mrs. Laughlin said fiercely. “Playing with an old woman’s feelings like that. And dragging the boys into whatever you were doing in Toby’s wing? It’s cruel is what it is.” p.g. 44

This quote just gives a brief insight of how the members of the Hawthorne house feel about Avery Grambs and they judge her even without getting to know her. Most of them just want her to stay away but that’s almost impossible for Avery, because she has a mystery to solve.

IRJE #3: Keeping Memories Alive

My next IRJE is from “The Kalahari Typing School for Men,” the fourth book in the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series by Alexander McCall Smith. The series follows Mma Ramotswe, a detective running the No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency in Botswana, and her fiancé Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni, who runs a garage. Mma Ramotswe was hired by a man named Mr. Molefelo to find the people he had once stolen a radio from in for him order to make amends, and in the following paragraph she reflects on it:

“The more she thought about Mr. Molefelo, the more she admired what he had done in coming to see her. Most do not bother with the really old wrongs; many forget them entirely, whether deliberately – if you can make a deliberate effort to forget – or by allowing the past to fade of its own accord. Mma Ramotswe wondered whether people have a duty to keep memories alive, and had decided that they have. Certainly the old beliefs were that those who had gone before should be remembered (p. 107-108).”

In this paragraph, we can see Mma Ramotswe as she reflects on what happened that day, and the philosophies which she holds. The things that I like the most about this series are the slices of life in every page and that Mma Ramotswe often “muses” to herself about things in life. While these things aren’t rather important for the story, they add a element of realism. They also characterize her – for example, showing that she holds a strong belief in the old ways of her ancestors. They demonstrate Mma Ramotswe’s wisdom, allowing the reader see how she thinks and contrast the way that she thinks about things to the way we usually do in Canada and the US. Many times, the more modern and “advanced” isn’t always better.

Sam’s IRJE#3

Right now I am reading “Be Useful: Seven Tools For Life” by Arnold Schwarzenegger. This book is a raw, honest, guide book with honest advice from, arguably, the most successful man in the world, for leading a strong, successful life.

It’s not to tell you what to build, it’s to show you how to build and why it matters.

I love this quote from his book because it shows that you are not going to have everything in life handed to you, so you must take the pieces that are given to you and use them to build stronger.