#Oak Tree Software

[oliviajaneee]

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[sweetsummercourier]

Wings of Icarus

But he told him, "Beware

Do not fly too close to the sun

The blaze will surely melt those wings."

But alas, he fell

His cries swallowed by the sea...

Synopsis: Saoirse's final memory of Eren. Their goodbye, a memory unlocked after the Rumbling ends.

Pairing: Eren Jaeger x Saoirse Wolford-Blackwell (oc)

Content: angst, cursing, pregnancy, mentions of pregnancy / child, teenage / young adult pregnancy, season 4 characters are 18+

Word count: 4k

A/N: not gonna lie... got teary eyed writing this. like the teary eyed where your throat begins to hurt. I proofread and used Grammarly just to make sure, but sorry for any minor mistakes myself or the software missed :) wings in art,,, symbolism,,, not real lol

Borders by @tsunami-of-tears + @saradika-graphics

Remember me, though I have to say "goodbye,"

Know that I'm with you the only way that I can be...

Until you're in my arms again,

Remember me...

/ / /

Saoirse gasped for air, her back arching slightly as she felt her neck. It felt like a fist had been stuffed into the center of her throat, adrenaline pumping through her veins like broken ice in a thawing river. 

Where was she? Where were the screams, the deafening drum of the colossal footsteps? Where were her comrades? Why wasn’t she looking through the eye of her Titan?

Ah, she thought. I’m dead.

That was the only logical explanation. Why else would she be lying in soft grass, staring up at the leafy branches of a towering oak tree? Dappled sunlight peered through the leaves as the wind wove through the branches, carrying the sounds of cheerful birds. The dampened sunlight felt warm on her pale skin. 

Through her one eye, everything was beautiful and vibrant – so much more vibrant than it had been in years. She could see each leaf on the branches above, and all the grooves in the tree bark. When she looked to her right, she could see rolling hills and wildflowers. Houses were sprinkled here and there, some together and some far apart. She could see a farm, the paddock filled with cows and goats that were just little forms in the distance.

“Beautiful…” she whispered. If this was heaven, she didn’t want to leave. She wondered who else she would find here. Marco? Sasha? Hange? A sense of calm washed over her at the thought of reuniting with the friends and comrades she lost… those she always believed she could have saved, and had horribly failed.

Something touched her left cheek, something she couldn’t see. It was a gentle touch, warm and comforting. The touch made her feel like she was a flower, and someone had reached out to touch and admire her soft petals.

“You’re awake. About time.”

Saoirse turned her head to find Eren sitting next to her, leaning against the trunk. His head was cocked to the side as he stared down at her, resting his cheek on his shoulder. His eyes remained on her face as a small yet fond smile graced his lips. His hair was short and trimmed. She could see his face. His eyes were so clear… a light shone in them that hadn’t been there before.

Her body moved by itself, twisting as she sat up and latching onto him with intense ferocity. Her nails dug into the fabric of his shirt, her face pressed against his chest. He was warm. Warm and safe and real and beside her. Like it should have been all along. 

“You ass… how many times have I told you not to stand on my left!” Saoirse huffed as she pulled away, moving onto her knees and gripping the collar of his shirt with his hands, shaking him slightly. “You’re such a pain!” 

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” he smiled. “I just wanted to admire you. Had I been on your right, you would have noticed me. And besides, I woulda blocked your view.”

Saoirse huffed and sat on the heels of her feet. She couldn’t stay mad at him. Not now, at least. She sighed and looked down at her hands.

A heavy weight fell on her shoulders, blanketing her. A deep sorrow sat in her chest. As much as she wanted to believe otherwise, self-awareness was a curse. 

“This is another one of your tricks,” she surmised. “We’re not really under this tree outside of Shiganshina. The Rumbling’s still happening.”

“... yes,” Eren said. “I was… hoping you wouldn’t have noticed. You’re too clever for your own good.”

Eren slowly stood up and turned to her, offering to help her stand. He latched onto her hand, holding it tightly like he was afraid she’d disappear. 

“Come with me… I want to show you something,” he said. “I know we’ve talked about the future we wanted, the future we could have. Let me dream with you a while longer.”

A lump formed in her throat. She had a million thoughts flooding her mind at that moment, everything she wanted to say was a swirling whirlpool. Eren’s eyes softened and pulled her closer to his side.

“Later… for now, just… let’s just be.”

Eren led her down the hill, keeping pace with her. The crisp grass swayed as they passed, flowers in full bloom reaching their leaves to the sky. People and horse-drawn carts dotted the dirt road leading to Shiganshina. Destroyed and desolate houses had been transformed into abodes filled with life. Children were playing in the streets, and mothers called for them to come inside for lunch. A dog chased a ball. A cat startled a flock of chickens. A man on horseback tipped his hat towards them and bid them a good day.

The Wall was no longer there. 

They entered the city where the gate once was. The infamous gate, where both had seen the Armored Titan smash through nine years ago. There were no traces of it now. It was as if the walls and gate itself had never been.

Saoirse paused and pulled Eren to the side of the road, and just stared. There were no soldiers. There wasn’t a massive structure blocking her view. She was standing where the Wall and gate had been, right where they stood that separated the Shiganshina District from the interior of Wall Maria. 

Saoirse wanted to stand there and watch the people and carts go by. To see the merchants come with their wares to set up shop. To see the weary farmer head to town to wind down at a tavern. To see the young women return to their homes with arms full of groceries. To see the children run to the river to play, dogs nipping at their heels. To see what she would be going back to once the Rumbling was over.

Life looked so… normal. Plain. Boring.

Eren squeezed her hand and coaxed her along, pulling her to continue walking. As they entered the teeming streets, what once would have been overwhelming brought comfort. The noise that would have given her a panic attack and ringing ears soothed her. Maybe it was because, after nine years of hell, everything was okay. All traces of Titans and soldiers and humanity struggling behind walls had vanished. 

The couple maneuvered through the bustling streets, wandering throughout the district. The smell of fresh bread and spices wafted into Saoirse’s nose. Rowdy music and patrons were singing in one of the city’s taverns. A heated argument had broken out between a merchant and a consumer over a poor barter.

A child ran into Eren’s leg while chasing a ball. The young boy looked up bashfully and apologized, hanging his head as if he were to be scolded. Eren laid a gentle hand on the boy’s head and ruffled his hair. 

“Don’t worry about it, sport,” Eren replied, very much like a dad. “No harm done.” 

Saoirse smirked and snorted, looking away. She began to chuckle softly. Eren gave her a quizzical look.

“What? What’d I say?”

“Nothing… you just sounded like such a dad.”

Eren laughed softly and pressed a warm kiss to the top of her head. He laced their fingers together and gently rubbed his thumb against her skin. He was being so tender with her, which wasn’t a bad thing, but it certainly hadn’t been a common thing, especially in public. Yet in the back of Saoirse’s mind, if this was their final moment together, it made sense he was being so affectionate.

No, she thought. This isn’t the end, everything’s going to be fine. This is all just leading up to Eren telling me that everything will be okay.

Eren led her down the bustling streets to the town square. There was a large fountain, decorated with flowers and surrounded by benches. Slanted plaques lay on the edges of the fountain. There were names etched into each plaque in neat rows, displaying the names of every person – civilian or soldier – who died when Wall Maria fell, who died when they were forced to be sent back, and those who died after reclaiming the Wall. 

Saoirse traced her fingers over the names, feeling the grooves of the etchings. She felt Eren pull away and move over to another plaque. His face grew somber and his heart seemed to sink to the pit of his stomach.

She moved over and stood by his side, her eye flitting over the names. Carla Jaeger stuck out like a sore thumb, and her blood ran cold. She leaned against Eren and sighed gently.

“She would’ve liked you,” Eren sighed. “I can almost picture how happy she would have been to hear she was going to be a grandma.”

“Don’t beat yourself up over what happened,” Saoirse replied. “You were ten.”

Eren remained silent for a moment, his brow furrowing slightly. He passed his thumb over his mother’s name and heaved a shaky sigh. He grabbed Saoirse’s hand and gently pulled her away from the fountain and down another street.

“That fountain… this whole city… is this how the city looks or did you make this up?”

“A little bit of both,” Eren replied, not looking at her. “This is how the city looks in my memory and how it looks now that it’s been repopulated. But the memorial fountain? I made that up. It doesn’t exist.”

“Well, maybe it should,” Saoirse said. “It’s beautiful.”

Eren led her through the streets and up some paths in silence. He looked like a man on a mission, with a soft, somber expression on his face. He looked like he was half excited, half dreading to reach the destination.

He led her to a house and nodded in its direction. As they stood back, Saoirse turned her gaze up at him. She gently nudged his shoulder, yet he wouldn’t budge. He swallowed thickly, his throat bobbing. He sounded slightly hoarse like he was parched.

“It looks different… without the giant boulder on top.”

His home. His childhood home. It did indeed look so different. She hadn’t been present when they went into the basement, but Eren had brought her by to at least show her the home he lost… where he lost his mother.

Suddenly, a small child of about four years ran out of the front door. Saoirse couldn’t determine if the child was a boy or a girl, but something about the child caused butterflies in the pit of her stomach. The child laughed and called for their mother, gripping a red ball in their hands.

“... That’s me.”

Saoirse’s eye widened as she watched a slightly older version of herself step out of the house. She held a large basket of laundry at her hip, donning a white blouse and yellow skirt, a red apron wrapped around her waist. She made a gesture to the child that said “one minute!” as she began to hang the laundry on a clothesline. She had even grown her hair back, and it looked soft and fluffy. 

“Is that how you picture me?” *Saoirse asked.

“Yeah,” Eren said softly. “Why? Have I offended you?”

“Not at all… just never saw myself in skirts and dresses.”

“I think you look beautiful in everything.”

“Shut up.”

They observed the pair as the child played with the ball, shouting at their mother to come play. They watched as the other Saoirse tied up her skirt to form makeshift shorts and began to kick the ball around with the child, laughing as the wind pushed up her hair. 

Someone called out in the distance. It sounded like a man. They turned toward the voice and the child yelled out “Daddy!” The child abandoned the ball and raced towards another Eren, who was dressed sharply. He beamed as he picked up the child, spinning them around before pressing a kiss to their cheek. When the other Saoirse approached, they seemed like a big happy family as Eren held her close in his other arm, kissing her lips.

“... we look happy.”

“Yeah… we do…”

Eren turned to her, his jade eyes soft and sad.

“Close your eyes for me. Don’t open until I tell you to.”

/ / /

Solid stone gave way to soft sand. Ocean water lapped at her feet and the urge to take off her boots was undeniable.

When Saoirse turned to look at Eren, his appearance returned to the now. His hair was pulled back in a messy bun, eyes devoid of light. He breathed a sigh and looked at her, his frame bathed in the red light of the setting sun.

“I think back to this time a lot,” he said. “How you looked standing here, in the water. It was the first time I ever saw you smile, I think. Truly smile,” he started. “I remember thinking to myself how beautiful it was. I wanted to protect it. I wanted to see it again.” 

Eren sighed softly and looked over at Saoirse. His eyes were at half mast, and his eyes just seemed so dead. So still and so dark. 

“Saoirse, be honest with me. When you look at me as I am now, what do you see?”

Saoirse knew what he expected her to say. A monster. A murderer. A demon. No — the Devil. Yet while she did agree that his actions were monstrous, she did not see him as a monster.  

Saoirse sighed and combed her fingers through her short hair before slowly shaking her head.

“I won’t say you’re a monster. I don’t see you as such. I’m… disappointed, and I’m mad, but when I look at you I see the man I love… and the father of my child.”

His expression softened and he reached for her hands, gently holding her fingers. He ran his thumbs over her knuckles, and for a time that felt like an eternity, there was only the sound of this imagined ocean.

“You’re going to live a long life,” he said calmly, his tone soft and low. “I want you to live a good, fulfilling life.”

“I will. With you, of course,” she replied, her tone slightly forceful with determination.

Eren hesitated and sighed softly, averting his gaze. Saoirse tugged on his hands a little as if trying to coax him into agreement. That somehow this whole disaster would end in a fairytale ending. That somehow, they would both walk away from this alive and live that life they talked about — that he had the gall to show her. 

He wouldn’t have conjured that up if it wasn’t going to be true… right? He wouldn’t dangle that in front of her like a carrot… right? Right? Right?

“Where you are going, I can’t follow,” he replied. “I’m sorry…”

His hold on her fingers tightened and he clenched his teeth, a tch emitting from his throat. Emotions overwhelmed him and he huffed,

“Shit… I don’t want this at all. I want to be here with you. I want to be close to you and grow old with you. I want to see your smile every day. I want to know what it’s like to live a boring life. I want to hold our baby, I want to be there when he or she is born… I want to be a dad…”

He closed his eyes and set his jaw, tears wetting his lashes. He opened his eyes and looked at her, his voice filled with regret.

“I want to be happy… I want to be happy with you. I don’t want anyone else to be by your side but me. I want to be your one and only. I want to raise our kid together… the idea of another man raising them, calling them “dad,” witnessing all those milestones… shit!!”

Eren shook his head and inhaled sharply, trying to control his emotions. It was clear he was in a tumultuous storm, battling with his emotions and the icy mask he had created. He was battling with his resolve, the older one wanting to be free and avenging his mother and the newer one wanting a clean slate for himself and his fellow Paradisians.

“Ah… I’m sorry,” he breathed slowly, the mask settling back over his face.

“No.”

Eren blinked at her comment. Something in her stomach churned angrily, and a white-hot marble of frustration and hurt boiled within.

Saoirse pulled her hands from his and began to wring them together, pacing. It was a feeble attempt to calm her. The more she paced, the angrier she got. Maybe it was because Eren had his eyes on her. Maybe it was his presence. Maybe it was his words. Maybe all three.

“Dammit, Eren… Dammit all!” She yelled as she turned to face him. “You selfish bastard! You don’t think, do you! You think you can just say that shit to me after everything!?”

She picked up a small rock from the wet sand and chucked it as far as she could, watching it splash and sink into the lapping waves.

“You didn’t have to do any of this! This whole “it’s the memories, it’s the future” — cut the bullshit! Destiny, predetermined fate… bullshit! You didn’t have to do any of this! We could’ve lived the life we wanted! But you decided it was more important to — to end the world? And for what? For what, Eren! Tell me! How many people have died for your — your stupid “memories!” Tell me!”

“...eighty percent.”

“Eighty perc — Eren!”

Saoirse held her head in her hands and exhaled sharply, her one eye rolling around. Eighty percent. How many lives was that? How many human lives was that? How many generations had he snuffed out? How much hatred had he sown into the hearts of survivors? How many survived who believed that, through Eren’s actions, all Eldians were devils?

“I’ve redone this over and over again… all with unsatisfactory results.”

“And this is the best case scenario? Slaughtering millions? Forcing us to go to war against you? Ostracizing your friends — do not give me that look, Eren Jaeger, I cannot believe the shit you said to Mikasa and did to Armin! They have known you forever! And this is how you treat them! And me! What about me! What about the kid!”

Eren grabbed her and pulled her to his chest. She beat her fists against him. She battled and screamed, but he held her. He didn’t speak, just held her and let her get all her frustrations out. He knew that if he tried to speak to her, to calm her, she’d only freak out more.

Saoirse wept, the rhythmic drumming of her fists stilling. Instead, she gripped his shirt, feeling the fabric against his skin. He gently pressed his nose to her shoulder, breathing deeply and closing his eyes.

“Was all of this a lie?” she whimpered. “Was I just… some pawn? Was I just a puppet with a role to play…”

“No,” he responded immediately. “No, you were never a pawn or a plaything. Never once have I seen you as such… but there is one thing.”

Saoirse rested her cheek against his chest, swallowing thickly. Her chest and shoulders heaved as she stuttered, gasping for air to calm herself and regulate her breathing. Eren gently pressed his hand to her back and rubbed small circles against her, his fingers brushing against her spine.

“I cannot change the past,” he continued, “but through the Founding Titan, I can influence thoughts and memories of the past… my father never saw you in the future memories of me, therefore I originally never paid you any mind… but I did.”

Saoirse looked up at him, stunned. Eren held her shoulders gently, searching her face. She opened her mouth a few times, but no words came out at first.

“... did you alter me?”

“Yes,” he admitted. “I… primarily intervened in your thoughts to ensure your survival. At first, my intentions were purely selfish: your Titan abilities were useful, and I determined they would make the events leading up to now more achievable. But I certainly didn’t think I would fall in love with you as a result.”

“And the baby?”

“... no, that was a surprise,” he replied. “Again, in ensuring your survival, I never imagined falling in love with you. I suppose I… could’ve prevented it but can’t imagine why I would. In the end, I got to be with you, even if there was an unexpected result."

Eren paused and gently took her face in his hands, tilting her head up. Tears continued to pour down from Saoirse’s one eye, liquid pearls rolling down her cheeks and onto his thumb. 

“I have been a terribly selfish lover,” he continued, “but I love you. Truly, honestly, deeply. I want you to be happy. I don’t want you to be alone. I don’t want our child to be raised without a father… I want you and our child to thrive. To live peacefully and happily in this new world. My biggest regret is that I won’t be by your side.”

“Eren… please…” Saoirse pleaded quietly, her lower lip quivering. “Don’t go where I can’t follow… if it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t have ever dreamed of the life I want now…”

Eren’s breathing was shaky, and tears pricked his eyes once more. He leaned forward and pressed a warm kiss to her forehead, his thumbs gently stroking her cheeks. His lips were so soft in the moment, the kiss so tender and soft and loving.

“I know I’ll be going to Hell,” he whispered against her skin. “Never doubt that I’m not watching over you, though. I promise I’ll be all around you. I’ll always be with you.”

“Where you go, I go too,” she replied quietly. “In death, be it Heaven or Hell, I want to be with you again. I would happily give up Heaven’s gates to be with the man who showed me love, who saw past my cynicism and cared for me anyway… I will shoulder your sins, too.”

Eren laughed softly and pressed his forehead to hers. He commented on how that was “pretty selfless” of her, and that he admired her resolve to abandon a peaceful afterlife for someone who didn’t deserve it. 

“Raise our child well,” he whispered, brushing his nose against hers. “Make them better than me. Show them that the world has so much beauty in it — so much more beauty than cruelty. Give them and yourself a normal life, free of the Walls and Titans.”

He tilted her head up a bit more and pressed his lips to hers. Saoirse moved her hands from his abdomen up to his chest, pressing herself closer to him. Even in this dream-like memory, she wanted to savor every little thing: the way he smelled, the way his chest rose and fell, the softness and warmth of his lips and how they moved against hers… how when she pulled back for a breath, he pulled her back in, a little tighter and more earnest. 

“I’ll be waiting for you,” he whispered. “When your time comes, I’ll be there. I will see you again. We will meet and be together again… and I look forward to hearing all the stories you’ll have to tell me.”

“Don’t go… ”

Eren finally broke away and embraced Saoirse tightly, resting his chin on the top of her head. Saoirse nestled her head against his neck. As tears dripped down her face, he rubbed her back and pet her hair tenderly. His tears began to slip down his face, knowing when they saw each other again, she’d be fighting him… she wouldn’t even remember this conversation until his head left his neck.

“Take care, Saoirse… I love you. Always and forever, and even after that… I love you. Goodbye, my love… thank you for everything.”

[nectoy7]

The History of Java Programming: From Its Humble Beginnings to Dominance in Software Development

Java is one of the most influential programming languages in the modern era, known for its versatility, portability, and robustness. Developed in the early 1990s, it has left a lasting impact on the software industry, helping build countless applications, from mobile games to enterprise-level software. In this blog, we'll explore Java’s fascinating history, its motivations, its growth, and its influence on today’s technology landscape.

The Genesis of Java

Java originated in the early 1990s as part of a project at Sun Microsystems. The project, initially called the "Green Project," was led by James Gosling, alongside Mike Sheridan and Patrick Naughton. The team's goal was to develop a language for embedded systems, specifically for appliances like televisions, which were beginning to incorporate smart technology.

The language was initially called "Oak," named after an oak tree outside Gosling's office. However, due to a trademark conflict, it was eventually renamed Java. The name "Java" was inspired by a type of coffee popular with the developers, signifying their relentless energy and drive.

Motivation Behind Java's Creation

Java was developed to address several key challenges in software development at the time:

Portability: Most languages of the day, such as C and C++, were platform-dependent. This meant that software needed significant modification to run on different operating systems. Gosling and his team envisioned a language that could be executed anywhere without alteration. This led to the now-famous slogan, "Write Once, Run Anywhere" (WORA).

Reliability: C and C++ were powerful, but they had pitfalls like manual memory management and complex pointers, which often led to errors. Java aimed to eliminate these issues by offering features like automatic memory management through garbage collection.

Internet Revolution: As the internet began to take shape, Java was positioned to take advantage of this growing technology. Java’s platform independence and security made it an ideal choice for internet-based applications.

The Birth of Java (1995)

The Green Project initially produced a device called Star7, an interactive television set-top box. While innovative, it didn't achieve widespread success. However, by the mid-1990s, the internet was gaining traction, and Sun Microsystems realized Java’s true potential as a programming language for web applications.

In 1995, Java was officially launched with the release of the Java Development Kit (JDK) 1.0. At the same time, Netscape Navigator, a popular web browser, announced that it would support Java applets. This gave Java immense exposure and set the stage for its rapid adoption in the software development community.

Key Features that Set Java Apart

From the beginning, Java had several features that distinguished it from its contemporaries:

Platform Independence: Java programs are compiled into an intermediate form called bytecode, which runs on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). The JVM acts as a mediator between the bytecode and the underlying system, allowing Java programs to be executed on any platform without modification.

Object-Oriented: Java was designed from the ground up as an object-oriented language, emphasizing modularity, reusability, and scalability. This feature made Java particularly attractive for building complex and large-scale applications.

Automatic Memory Management: Java's garbage collector automatically handles memory deallocation, reducing the risk of memory leaks and other errors that plagued languages like C and C++.

Security: Java was designed with a focus on security, particularly given its intended use for internet applications. The JVM serves as a secure sandbox, and Java’s bytecode verification process ensures that malicious code cannot be executed.

Evolution of Java Versions

Since its release in 1995, Java has undergone several iterations, each bringing new features and improvements to enhance the developer experience and address the evolving needs of software applications.

Java 1.0 (1996): The first version of Java was mainly used for applets on web browsers. It came with basic tools, libraries, and APIs, establishing Java as a mainstream programming language.

Java 2 (1998): With the release of J2SE (Java 2 Platform, Standard Edition), Java evolved from a simple web language to a complete, general-purpose development platform. Java 2 introduced the Swing library, which provided advanced tools for building graphical user interfaces (GUIs). This release also marked the beginning of Java Enterprise Edition (J2EE), which extended Java for server-side applications.

Java 5 (2004): Java 5, initially called Java 1.5, was a significant update. It introduced Generics, Annotations, Enumerations, and Autoboxing/Unboxing. The updated version also brought improved syntax and functionality, which simplified writing and reading code.

Java SE 7 (2011) and Java SE 8 (2014): Java SE 7 brought features like try-with-resources, simplifying exception handling. Java SE 8 was a transformative release, introducing Lambda expressions and Stream APIs. This version brought functional programming aspects to Java, allowing developers to write more concise and expressive code.

Java 9 to Java 17 (2017-2021): Java 9 introduced the module system to help organize large applications. Java 11 and later versions moved towards a more rapid release cadence, with new features appearing every six months. Java 17, released in 2021, became a long-term support (LTS) version, offering several advancements like improved garbage collection, pattern matching, and record classes.

The Java Community and OpenJDK

Java's development has always been characterized by a strong community influence. Initially controlled by Sun Microsystems, Java's fate changed when Oracle Corporation acquired Sun in 2010. After the acquisition, Oracle made significant strides towards making Java more open and community-driven.

OpenJDK, an open-source implementation of Java, became the reference implementation starting from Java 7. This move encouraged greater collaboration, transparency, and diversity within the Java ecosystem. OpenJDK allowed more organizations to contribute to Java’s development and ensure its continued growth.

Java in the Enterprise and Beyond

Java has become synonymous with enterprise-level software development, thanks in part to the introduction of Java EE (now known as Jakarta EE). Java EE provides a set of specifications and tools for building large-scale, distributed, and highly reliable applications. The Java ecosystem, including frameworks like Spring, Hibernate, and Apache Struts, has contributed to its popularity in enterprise environments.

Java also became a key player in the development of Android applications. Android Studio, Google's official IDE for Android development, is powered by Java, which contributed significantly to its widespread adoption. Although Kotlin, another JVM language, is now gaining popularity, Java remains a core language for Android.

The Challenges Java Faced

Despite its success, Java faced competition and challenges over the years. Languages like C#, developed by Microsoft, and Python have gained traction due to their developer-friendly features. Java has been criticized for its verbosity compared to more modern languages. However, the Java community’s active contributions and Oracle’s improvements, including adding modern programming paradigms, have kept it relevant.

Another significant challenge was the rise of JavaScript for web development. While Java was initially popular for web applets, JavaScript became the dominant language for front-end development. Java's relevance in web applications decreased, but it found its niche in server-side applications, enterprise systems, and Android.

Java Today and Its Future

Today, Java is one of the most popular programming languages globally, powering applications across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, telecommunications, and education. Java’s strength lies in its mature ecosystem, robust performance, and scalability.

The new six-month release cycle initiated by Oracle has brought excitement back into the Java world, with new features being added frequently, keeping the language modern and in line with developer needs. Java 17, as an LTS version, is a stable platform for enterprises looking for reliable updates and support over the long term.

Looking forward, Java’s evolution focuses on improving developer productivity, adding more concise language features, and optimizing performance. Java's adaptability and continuous evolution ensure its place as a leading language for both new projects and legacy systems.

Conclusion

Java’s journey from a language for set-top boxes to becoming a foundational tool in enterprise computing, Android applications, and beyond is nothing short of remarkable. Its creation was driven by a need for portability, reliability, and ease of use. Over nearly three decades, Java has evolved to remain relevant, keeping pace with technological advancements while preserving its core values of reliability and platform independence.

The language’s robust community, open-source development model, and wide adoption in critical applications guarantee that Java will remain a force in software development for many years to come. It has not only withstood the test of time but continues to thrive in a constantly changing technology landscape—an enduring testament to the vision of its creators and the collective effort of its global community.

[paulinawoodpecker]

The hugh family

Featuring kohl hugh, Nagham hugh, and kanji Hugh

Nagham:

Age: 17

(Religious headwear; hijab)

Likes: kohl, kanji, music, art, Ramona

Dislikes: getting her feelings hurt, her mother, other people (especially Tiffany) judging her

Personality: creative, artistic, honest

Kanji:

Age: 21

(Just started college)

Likes: Nagham, kohl, his colleagues, diplomas

Dislikes: failed tests, anxiety, losing Nagham, the loss of his mother

Personality: serious, sensitive, smart, genius

Kohl:

Age: 52

Likes: future wife, Nagham, kanji, being a software developer

Dislike: loss of his wife, losing Nagham and/or kanji, kanji not shaving

Personality: helpful, intelligent, responsible

Backstory:

(How it all started)

How Nagham’s Mother Met Kohl:

Nagham’s parents, Kohl and his late wife, met at a community event hosted at a local library, where Kohl was giving a talk about technology’s impact on education. Nagham’s mother, a teacher with a passion for learning and community involvement, was instantly drawn to Kohl’s intelligence and warmth. They struck up a conversation after the talk, bonding over their shared love of learning and a vision for helping others.

Their first date was a delightful evening at a quaint café that featured live music. They spent hours talking about their dreams, aspirations, and the values that guided their lives. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and they quickly realized that they had found something special in each other. From that day forward, their relationship blossomed into a deep and abiding love.

Engagement and Wedding:

Kohl proposed to his future wife during a quiet picnic in their favorite park, under the shade of an old oak tree that had become a symbol of their relationship. He chose this intimate setting because it was where they often spent time together, away from the hustle and bustle of their busy lives, sharing thoughts and dreams. She was touched by the simplicity and sincerity of the proposal, and she eagerly accepted.

Their wedding was a small, heartfelt ceremony surrounded by close family and friends. It was a day filled with love, laughter, and meaningful moments that reflected their shared values and deep connection. The couple exchanged personal vows that celebrated their journey and the future they looked forward to building together. Their marriage was built on mutual respect, love, and a commitment to supporting each other through life’s ups and downs.

Parenthood and Raising Kanji and Nagham:

The couple welcomed their first child, Kanji, with immense joy and excitement. As new parents, they embraced the challenges and delights of raising their son, who quickly became the center of their world. They nurtured Kanji’s curiosity and intellect, providing him with a loving home and the tools to explore his interests.

When Nagham was born, tragedy struck as her mother passed away during childbirth. The loss was a profound and devastating blow to the family, leaving Kohl to raise his children on his own. Despite the heartbreak, Kohl dedicated himself to being both a father and a guardian of his wife’s memory, ensuring that her love and values were ever-present in their household.

Kohl worked hard to create a nurturing environment for Nagham and Kanji, teaching them about their mother through stories, pictures, and the values she held dear. He encouraged Nagham’s passion for music, seeing it as a way for her to connect with the mother she never knew. Meanwhile, Kanji stepped up as a protective older brother, always looking out for Nagham and helping their father when needed.

Present Day:

Today, Nagham is a vibrant young girl with a deep passion for music. She finds solace and joy in singing and playing instruments, often dedicating her performances to the memory of her mother. Kanji, now in college, is focused on his studies but remains a devoted brother, always finding time to support Nagham and assist his father.

Kohl continues to be the backbone of the family, balancing his career with his responsibilities at home. He is proud of how far his children have come and is committed to supporting their dreams, honoring his late wife’s legacy through his dedication to his family.

Together, the Hugh family navigates life’s challenges with love, resilience, and a strong sense of unity. They cherish the memories of the past while looking forward to the future, knowing that they have each other to lean on every step of the way.

[gravitywonagain]

Pls tell about the Definitely Not a Queer Eye fic!!!

hahahaha! yes, okay, thank you <3

so wife and i were watching a ton of queer eye for, like, happiness reasons. and i, as i do, started formulating a queer eye au. but i told her i wasn't gonna write it! and i wasn't! but then... and she shares access to my wips folder because she does all my editing. so that's why i named it that.

but it very much is a queer eye fic, in which wwx is a software engineer who has a lot of money but never takes care of himself. he's just moved himself and a'yuan into a split family house with wen qing, wen ning, and wen popo in the other half, but he's done absolutely no decorating in his house except for a'yuan's stuff. also he runs a community garden. also he's 33 but he still dresses like he's in college. also he has abandonment issues and struggles to believe he's worthy of love unless he's doing something for someone else. anyway, you get it.

so, wen qing and wen ning nominate him and the fab 5 come in and do their thing! it's not complicated. just sweet. and there's hints of wangxian throughout. karamo gathers all the friends at one point to do that thing where they sit in a circle and tell wwx he's loved. wx will probably finally kiss at the episode ending house warming party thing. lwj will definitely check out wwx's ass in his new jeans. but it really is all about getting wwx the self-love he deserves. and to make him prioritize himself for once.

but because i told wife i wasn't going to write it, it's basically just an outline with a few dialogue snippets, so i don't have much prose to give you... but here's a moment from the wens' nomination interview:

WEN QING (Friend/Nominator) and WEN NING (Friend/Nominator) sit together at an oak dining table. Family pictures cover the wall behind them. Wei Ying features in many if not most of them. WQ: How would I describe Wei Ying as a person? WN: Ying-ge is... a very giving person. WQ: Giving? He's the fucking Giving Tree! I once saw him literally hand a man the shirt off his back.

i kind of envision it in the style of After the Final Rose by azurewaxwing where i do the episode, but also some extra bits to kind of round it out some more :)

thank you <3

WIP Ask Game

[satoshihero566]

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[glzwoodw]

Exploring Furniture Design And Production

Furniture design and production have evolved dramatically over the centuries into an intricate tapestry woven from artistic tradition and modern innovation.

What would have begun as simple, functional objects intended solely to meet our basic needs has transformed into a sophisticated craft that mirrors cultural shifts, technological breakthroughs and an ever-growing emphasis on environmental stewardship.

In the earliest days, furniture was primarily utilitarian, it was crafted with strength and practicality in mind.

Yet as society progressed, so did the spectrum of aesthetic aspirations.

For some, contemporary design pushes toward sleek modernity and even futuristic visions, while for others, pieces reminiscent of bygone eras hold symbolic significance and evoke a treasured connection to history.

Historical periods such as the Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo highlight this transformation; ornate details and lavish ornamentation during these eras were more than mere decoration.

They were visual statements of wealth, status, and artistic expression that elevated everyday objects into works of art.

At the heart of quality furniture-making lies traditional craftsmanship, passion for perfection and specialized techniques.  Although theoretically anyone can have a go at hand-carving, joinery and meticulous finishing but when it comes to beautiful looking pieces of furniture, there’s some very special skills that have been passed down through generations.

These time-honored methods not only ensure functionality but also infuses each piece with historical and cultural resonance.

Today, many woodworkers are successfully merging these classic techniques with modern tools such as computer-aided design (CAD) and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machinery.

It’s nothing short of amazing of how the most intricate designs can be made via most modern techniques involving purpose built software and hardware.

This integration allows for enhanced precision, the exploration of very complex design geometries and a consistency in quality that honors legacy while pushing the boundaries of innovation.

As you would expect though, material selection still remains a cornerstone of quality furniture production.

Certain customers will want pieces made from certain species of wood, they’ll want a beautiful end product that celebrates that wood species for its unique grain, natural hue and durability.  I cannot imagine any other scenario for the production of high-end pieces.

Whether it’s the robust character of oak, the elegant warmth of walnut, or the delicate charm of cedar, each species imparts distinct properties that influence both design, character and longevity.

There is an increasing drive towards sustainability, with designers and makers alike favoring responsibly sourced or reclaimed wood that meets eco-friendly standards without compromising on aesthetic allure.

I love this approach, if trees fall during storms or if they have to fall to make way for new suburbs, then at least let’s make something beautiful out of them, rather than treat them as form of rubbish.

The onset of the Industrial Revolution brought profound change to the furniture making industry.

Steam-powered machinery gave makers another option, they weren’t confined to making new pieces exclusively by hand, they could make some by hand and the bulk of others via mass production avenues.

This made quality furniture pieces more accessible to the broader public. Alongside the mass production though, there has always been those could not move past their desire to only purchase fine furniture pieces that celebrated the time-honored values of handmade artistry and bespoke craftsmanship.

Fast forward to today and furniture production is defined by a delicate equilibrium between innovation and tradition, affordability and quality and modern methods combined with sustainable practices.

While the tools and techniques continue to evolve, the essence of furniture design, the ability to reflect the values and identities of its makers and users remains steadfast.

My Top 5 Takeaways:

Fusion of Tradition and Innovation: Contemporary techniques complement age-old craftsmanship to produce designs that are both precise and artistically vibrant.

Evolution of Design Aesthetics: Furniture has transcended its functional origins to become a medium enriched with cultural and stylistic narratives.

Critical Role of Material Selection: The inherent qualities of various wood species significantly influence the durability and desirability of furniture.

Wider Accessibility Via Mass Production: Technological advancements have taken quality design to almost unimaginable places, making beautifully crafted furniture accessible to a larger audience at very affordable prices in some cases.

Sustainability as a Core Value: Our growing focus on responsibly sourced and reclaimed materials is reshaping not just production practices in pursuit of eco-conscious design but also modern earthworks, a tree removed from the ground to make way for a new building can now be gathered up and sold as a product.

To read the full/originating article and explore this topic further, here is the link: Exploring Furniture Design and Production - GLZ Woodworking

I first published this information on Medium 07 June 2025

[argieell]

OAK LEAF LIVE NB [in italics and regular font] ORIGINAL FORMATTING NOT ACHIEVABLE [2nd & 10th STANZAS] THIS SOFTWARE - MAYBE IN SOME FUTURE, EH?

1. want to live in a land nothing is as I am except perhaps you

will as might, never

can amount to any thing

more than less other must remind self as strive to keep up with you don’t want me there lost to me in black wattle, doubt a day goes by feel less more missed to be seen as the oak leaf that’s dried on the tree more is than just sad

2. always remember as mistake in my life, cheeks sallow, gaze distant views but never respond, and seem neither here nor there ever less

in red brick anomie spirituality lost ‘tween self and me

so glad to sink the oak leaf beyond the barrel as always, my fault

unable to reach

my own escape

velocity... Richard Lawrance © 21Jul2024

[kendrarichardsdesign]

December 11 2024 - Final Design Rationale

Logo rationale: After exploring different options for a personal logo, I developed the font I made in type 2 into a functional font for my brand. I chose to do a wordmark because it makes the most sense for a personal design portfolio. Using an icon causes problems with recognition and it was a personal challenge to adjust the font to give the viewer a feeling - like different types of logos. Hard to explain but for example: The new Jaguar logo is futuristic and feels high-fashion. I wanted my logo to feel calm and real, not super polished but beautiful. I made the font more angular and vertical (like a tree hahah) and I'm proud of what I made. I also used a new software for the first time and I picked it up really quickly. The font was extremely time-consuming and took away from the rest of the brand. There are pros and cons, but if I did it again I would do it the same way. The font has the feeling I wanted to evoke and relates to the nature theme. It's still based in Oak Bay which is still a special place to me.

Brand Guide rationale: I kept the design simple and made it a digital pdf. I plan to work partially remotely when possible, and digital brand guides are more accessible. I kept it extremely straightforward and used only essential information. I think this is similar to how I talk in professional settings, I only really talk when I have something to say. I used a 12-column grid to relate to the portfolio because it's a web grid. Overall the designs are simple because I would want the work to stand out over the personal brand in the portfolio.

Business Card rationale: Similar to the brand guide, I wanted to keep this design as simple as possible. I wasn't able to get into the building to print the business cards today so I did a mockup. I probably could've found another way but I chose to stop there. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to complete the portfolio in time, but I think I set myself up well to finish it.

Overall I am proud of myself for designing something good this semester (in my opinion). All I want to do is make typefaces it is so fun.

Time spent: 39.36 h

Money Spent: ZERO DOLLARS!!!!! SLAY

[oliviajaneee]

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[douchebagbrainwaves]

ALTHOUGH MORAL FASHIONS TEND TO ARISE FROM DIFFERENT SOURCES THAN FASHIONS IN CLOTHING, THE MECHANISM OF THEIR ADOPTION SEEMS MUCH THE SAME

So if you want to inhabit. It's like stretching. You haven't made anyone else poorer. Subtract one from the other, and the Inquisition was a bit restive at that time. The somewhat more surprising force was one specific type of innovation: social applications.1 To find them, keep track of opinions that get people in trouble today. Proposals to paint anything yellow are denounced as yellowist, as is anyone suspected of liking the color. When you're talking about the amount of money at any moment.2 Everyone in a company works together to create wealth, in the sense of a village, but small in the sense that your performance can make or break it. The lowest form of these is to disagree with, you may be arguing with a straw man.

I did look under rocks as a kid: plain curiosity.3 He wanted to spend his time thinking about biology, not arguing with people who accused him of being an atheist. I have often wished I'd had the temperament to do an absurd comedy, which is what the situation deserved. Now it's Wepay's.4 But the company as a whole must be giving people something they want, the more interesting sort of convergence that's coming is between shows and games. Along some parts of Skyline the dominant trees are huge redwoods, and in others they're live oaks.5 Suppose you realize there is nothing to buy, it wouldn't matter how much money you had.6 What ideas were tarnished by association when they ended up on the losing side of a recent struggle? He wanted to spend his time thinking about biology, not arguing with people who accused him of being an atheist. Whereas if you solve a technical problem that a lot of hand-wringing now about declining market share.

But a very able person in a big company. One is that you lose the advantages of discussion. But by Galileo's time the church was in the throes of the Counter-Reformation and was much more worried about unorthodox ideas. This was wise advice.7 But you don't have to be smart to get jobs as a scientist, rather than just a good politician.8 And when you discover a new way to do that, you should say explicitly you're doing it. Real standards don't have to send everyone the same signal, and you become an idiot. Why do they do this?

But I think usually the shock is on one side.9 Superficially it's a lot like college. We would have much preferred a 100% chance of $1 million to a 20% chance of $10 million, even though theoretically the second is worth twice as much. Their hand-made objects become store-bought ones. Which means every teenage kid a wants a computer with an Internet connection, b has an incentive to figure out how to use it, and group themselves according to whatever shared interest they feel most strongly. You could probably work twice as many hours as a corporate employee, and if people aren't using your software, maybe it's not just because it's free, but because it was harder.10 That's not a radical idea, by the way; it's the main difference between children and adults.11 What decided the contest for computers? All you need to keep your eye on here is the abstraction of money. But there is a step beyond thinking of yourself as x but tolerating y: not even to consider yourself an x.12

Near the top is the company run by techno-weenies who are obsessed with solving interesting technical problems, instead of fleeing as soon as some big company becomes aware of it, they'll make their own, and with their brand name, capital, and distribution clout, they'll take away your market overnight. At least, as long as acquirers remain stupid. When aimed squarely at the original argument, it can be convincing. For example, if users searching for compact disc player is not present on those pages. That will change the balance of power between the networks and the people who have them happier. Most people reading this will already be fairly tolerant. But on religion everyone's an expert. No one gets in trouble for repeating Copernicus's ideas. Changes between the past and the present sometimes do represent progress. Google is, they're probably being told right now by VCs to come back when they have more traction.

You can see this on a small scale in the matter of dirty words. Indeed, the arrival of new fashions makes old fashions easy to see, because they get the wrong answers on tests. In doing so you create wealth.13 The word defeatist, for example.14 Either VCs will evolve down into this gap or, more likely, new investors will be compelled by the structure of the investments they make to be ten times bolder than present day VCs. But the real advantage of the ten-man boat shows when you take the ten best rowers out of the big galley and put them in a boat by themselves, they could probably go faster. So let's get Bill Gates out of the big galley and put them in a boat together.15 If you have something real to say, being mean just gets in the way.16 But in medieval Europe something new happened. You just can't fry eggs or cut hair one customer at a time.

Notes

Once someone has said fail, most of them.

One implication of this: You may not even allowed to ask permission to go to college, you'll find that with a wink, to a car dealer. You have to do more with less, then promptly improving it.

According to the founders don't have one. Joshua Reeves specifically suggests asking each investor to do tedious work. There are aspects of the great painters in history supported themselves by painting portraits.

On the verge of the rest of the web was going to get significant numbers of people who will go away. The two 10 minuteses have 3 weeks between them so founders can get programmers who wanted to. But a couple of hackers with no valuation cap.

So if it's dismissed, it's cool with us if the statistics they use the phrase the city, they may end up. Inside their heads a giant house of cards is tottering.

Investors influence one another, it is still a dick move. If Xerox had used what they said, and anyone doing due diligence tends to be good startup founders and one didn't try to avoid using it, I'm just going to have to do more harm than good. While the US treat the poor worse than Japanese car companies, but at least prevent your investors from helping you to behave like adults, it may have been doing so.

Two customer support people tied for first prize with entries I still shiver to recall. You could also degenerate from uppercase to any-case, not you. The question to ask permission to go deeper into the heads of would-be poets were mistaken to be in that so few founders do it.

Which feels a bit misleading to treat macros as a cause as it was overvalued till you see what new ideas you're presenting. If Bush had been a time of its identity. We couldn't talk meaningfully about revenues without including the numbers from the VCs' point of view anyway. On the other hand, they are so different from technology companies.

There are lots of customers times how much they can use this technique, you'll have to decide whether you're a YC startup and you need to do. I don't think you should never sell. That would be enough to guarantee good effects.

For the computer, the reaction was so widespread and so on.

In a series A deal flow, then used a recent Business Week, 31 Jan 2005.

This is not always as deliberate as its sounds. When I talk about the subterfuges they had to work on a hard technical problem. Robert Morris wrote the ordering system and image generator written in C and Perl. I ordered a large chunk of time, serious writing meant theological discourses, not eating virtuously.

Horace, Sat. If you were able to buy it despite having no evidence it's for sale. Companies often wonder what to do it. They would have been sitting in their early twenties.

Good news: users don't care what your body is telling you and listen only to the erosion of the taste of apples because if people can see how universally faces work by their prevalence in advertising.

Even if you were. Family, school, and his son Robert were each in turn forces Digg to respond with extreme countermeasures. If not, greater accessibility. I'd use to calibrate the weighting of the word wealth, the local builders built everything in it.

I assume we still do things that don't raise money on the admissions committee knows the professors who wrote the editor, written in Lisp, Wiley, 1985, p. The fancy version of this policy may be a great idea as an example of a business, or want tenure, avoid casual conversations with VCs suggest it's roughly correct to say that it also worked for spam. We're delighted to have had little acquired immunity to dictators.

[vcubejava]

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History of Java

Java Tutorial For beginners

James Gosling and Sun Microsystems created The Java programming language around the year 1991. The motto he used when he created Java “Write one time; go everywhere.” They initially named the language Oak due to the oak tree in Gosling’s office. Later, the name was changed to Green and then Java Coffee and finally Java Coffee, named after the coffee of Indonesia which was later shortened to Java in 1995. Are you eager to receive Best java training in Hyderabad you are in the right place. 

[nectoy7]

Introduction to Java: A Beginner’s Guide

Java is one of the most popular and versatile programming languages in the world today. Known for its robustness, scalability, and security features, Java is widely used in various domains, including web development, mobile apps, enterprise software, and cloud-based solutions. Whether you’re a budding developer or an experienced professional looking to expand your knowledge, understanding Java opens up countless opportunities in the tech industry.

This guide provides a comprehensive introduction to Java, covering its history, key features, how to set up the environment, and writing your first program.

The Origins of Java

Java was first developed by James Gosling and his team at Sun Microsystems in 1991. Originally designed for interactive television, the language was initially called “Oak” after an oak tree that stood outside Gosling’s office. However, Oak didn’t achieve much success in its original purpose, leading the developers to rebrand it as Java in 1995. The new version was aimed at making the Internet more interactive, and it quickly gained traction, especially with the advent of applets—small programs that ran within web browsers.

In 2009, Oracle Corporation acquired Sun Microsystems, and Java is now maintained and updated by Oracle. The platform has evolved through various iterations, with the latest version being Java 17, offering improved performance, security, and functionality.

What is Java?

Java is a general-purpose, high-level, object-oriented programming language. It is designed to have as few implementation dependencies as possible, which means that compiled Java code can run on all platforms that support Java without needing recompilation—this is known as the “Write Once, Run Anywhere” (WORA) principle.

Some of the key features of Java include:

Object-Oriented: Everything in Java is treated as an object, which helps to model real-world problems and simplifies code management.

Platform Independent: Java’s platform independence is one of its strongest features. The code you write is compiled into bytecode, which runs on any machine with a Java Virtual Machine (JVM).

Simple and Familiar: Java has a syntax similar to C++ but eliminates complex features like pointers and operator overloading, making it simpler to learn and use.

Robust: Java includes strong memory management and exception handling, which enhances the stability of applications.

Secure: With built-in security features such as a bytecode verifier and security managers, Java ensures safe execution of code.

Multithreaded: Java supports multithreading, allowing programs to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, which is crucial for modern, high-performance applications.

Java Architecture

To understand how Java works, you need to understand its three main components:

1. Java Development Kit (JDK): This is a software development environment used for developing Java applications. It contains the Java compiler (javac), the Java runtime (java), libraries, and tools to write and execute Java code.

2. Java Virtual Machine (JVM): JVM is an abstract machine that provides the runtime environment in which Java bytecode can be executed. It is platform-specific, meaning there are different JVMs for Windows, macOS, and Linux, but they all interpret the same bytecode.

3. Java Runtime Environment (JRE): JRE includes the JVM and the standard libraries required to run Java applications. It’s what users need to run Java programs.

When you write a Java program, it is compiled into bytecode by the JDK’s compiler. This bytecode is platform-independent and can be executed on any device with a JVM. The JVM translates this bytecode into machine code that can be executed by the host operating system.

Key Java Concepts

Before you start writing Java code, it’s important to understand some of the core concepts in the language:

1. Classes and Objects

Class: A class is a blueprint or template for creating objects. It defines properties (variables) and behaviors (methods) that the objects created from the class can have.

Object: An object is an instance of a class. It represents real-world entities, like a person, car, or bank account.

Example:

public class Car {     // Properties     String model;     int year;

    // Method     public void startEngine() {         System.out.println(“The engine is starting…”);     } }

2. Inheritance: Java supports inheritance, allowing one class to inherit fields and methods from another class, promoting code reuse. The keyword extends is used for inheritance.

Example:

public class ElectricCar extends Car {     // New properties or methods specific to ElectricCar }

3. Polymorphism: This allows methods to have the same name but behave differently based on the object calling them. It can be achieved through method overloading (same method name but different parameters) and method overriding (modifying inherited methods).

4. Encapsulation: This is the concept of wrapping data (variables) and methods together as a single unit. It involves restricting direct access to some of an object’s components and can be achieved by making variables private and providing public getter and setter methods.

5. Abstraction: Abstraction means hiding complex implementation details and showing only the necessary features. Java supports abstraction using abstract classes and interfaces.

Setting Up Java Environment

Before you can write and execute Java programs, you need to install the necessary software:

1. Install Java Development Kit (JDK): Visit the official Oracle website to download and install the latest version of the JDK.

2. Set Up Environment Variables: On Windows, you need to set the JAVA_HOME environment variable to point to the JDK installation directory and add the bin directory to the system’s PATH. This allows you to run Java commands from the command line.

3. IDE (Integrated Development Environment): While you can write Java code using a simple text editor, it’s recommended to use an IDE like Eclipse, IntelliJ IDEA, or NetBeans. These tools provide code assistance, debugging, and other helpful features for development.

Writing Your First Java Program

Now that you’ve set up the environment, let’s write a simple Java program that prints “Hello, World!” to the console.

public class HelloWorld {     public static void main(String[] args) {         System.out.println(“Hello, World!”);     } }

Explanation:

The public class HelloWorld defines a class named HelloWorld.

The main method is the entry point of any Java program. It is always written as public static void main(String[] args).

System.out.println(“Hello, World!”); prints the text inside the quotes to the console.

To run this program:

1. Save it as HelloWorld.java.

2. Open a terminal or command prompt, navigate to the file’s directory, and compile it using the command:

javac HelloWorld.java

3. Once compiled, run the program with:

java HelloWorld

You should see the output:

Hello, World!

Conclusion

Java’s platform independence, security features, object-oriented nature, and robust framework have made it a go-to language for developers worldwide. From web applications to mobile development (Android is powered by Java), the language has maintained its relevance over the decades. If you’re looking to build scalable, maintainable, and efficient software solutions, mastering Java is a great step forward.

By understanding the fundamentals outlined in this guide, you’ve taken the first step into the world of Java programming. Keep practicing by experimenting with more complex programs, and soon, you’ll be proficient in this versatile language!

[alwri-tes]

"Android" - a short story I wrote in 2021

“I feel so very fortunate to have been allowed to accompany you on your walk today, Mx.Badawi. Although I do apologize for not being able to always keep up with you, my processors are working in overdrive!” Anya chuckled to herself.

“I had expected as much,” Mx. Badawi called from their place ahead. “Take all the time you need to absorb the necessary information. 

“But, Mx-”

“Stop, Anya.” 

Anya’s feet froze to the ground, midstep. She blinked, a small smile spreading across her face.

“What can I do for you, Mx. Badawi?”

“Look around. Tell me what you see.”

Anya looked upward, to the massive branches overhead. They were ancient and twisting, small circular leaves at the spindly edge of each branch practically touching. Anya slowly moved her head downward. She knew the knolls and lumps on each tree were simply that, natural formations of the bark, but her facial recognition software couldn’t let them go, they looked too much like eyes.

“I see trees. Mature California Live Oaks. They are the most prominent species in this particular area, due to the climate. I just detected a flicker of movement,” she felt the cameras that made up her eyes widen, pupils dilating. “It is a bird, a local common crow, pecking at the dirt. Would you like me to-”

“Enough, Anya.” Mx. Badawi sounded almost irritated, something that made Anya’s toes curl. She hadn’t done anything wrong, just what she had been asked to do! Maybe the mosquitos were beginning to get to Mx. Badawi, while their blood was nowhere near as attractive as those of some humans-most likely due to their  genetics-they still tended to lunge for their ankles and wrists, no matter how thick her socks or gloves were. 

“Keep walking.” Gone was the irritation, just tiredness. 

Anya kept walking, staring at the back of Mx. Badawi’s head, the black curls bouncing with every movement, the rhythmic motion of  their swaying arms. Anya had worked for them for almost as long as she could remember, and this was the most calm she’d ever seen her. Well, maybe calm wasn’t the right word for it. Mx. Badawi was usually-as  their visiting aunt and uncle had once put it-bouncing off the walls. Anya didn’t understand, as Mx. Badawi had never bounced off of any walls, just the floor when they got really excited and jumped up and down. Mx. Badawi was always crackling with energy, never still. Still, they were not still, just- more focused. Put together. Yes, that was it.

Mx. Badawi abruptly careened off of the well-beaten dirt path, ignoring the thorns snagging at their shorts,the brambles sticking to them. Anya’s previous train of thought crashed and burned. She didn’t even know why she was surprised. From the moment they met, Anya knew that Mx. Badawi was a predictably unpredictable human. They had ignored other top of the line, freshly produced androids capable of cooking original recipes and complex play with young children, for Anya. Their exact words had been: thank you for your offers, sir, but I want that one. 

That one? It’s getting fairly old, and is extremely reliant on human commands and is much slower to process them-

It still works, doesn’t it?

Well, yes, but-

I’ll take it. You. What is your name?

She hesitated for a long moment before bobbing her head. I am sorry, but I am unable to complete that request. 

It doesn’t have a name. The man sighed from behind Mx.Badawi.

Okay. Hmmm. You know what? You look like an Anya. That's a good name. What do you think?

What do I think?

Yes, how do you feel about the name Anya. Do you want to be called Anya?

She thought she might crash. She wasn’t programmed for this. She only spoke the language of direct commands, not choices. 

Great, you’ve killed it. The man laughed, but it was a painful sound.

I-like Anya. 

The man fell silent, but his mouth kept twitching and working as if he was desperate to say something. 

Great! Come with me, Anya.

And so Anya had come with them, and was welcomed into a sprawling home.. The house was empty of other androids, but full of clutter. So much clutter. It was unbearable. She immediately went to work, to Mx. Badawi’s great approval. As she’d cleaned, she’d silently braced for a call of faster or hurry up, but it had never come.

This incident had ingrained itself into her programming as a display of several fundamental things about her new employer. They hated throwing things away and treating them as if they were useless. They didn’t like people getting in their way, possibly due to having enough money to not have to typically deal with such inconveniences. The contents of the clutter had been educational as well, especially in displaying one key fact.  They really, really, really liked insects. They studied them. They talked about them. They had plushies and photographs of them. 

Insects were their life’s passion. Passion separated people from the programmed, which is why Anya struggled to understand her employers actions at times.  Like when they  wandered off the marked trail, got on their hands and knees, their backside sticking up in the air. 

“Follow me, Anya, I need these ant -oh my goodness a figeater beetle! Come here little guy!” There was a clapping sound, and Mx. Badawi emerged from the tangle of bushes, holding something captive in their cupped, gloved hands. Something that buzzed loudly and seemed to be throwing its scaly little body against its fleshy prison with all its might. 

“I know you might not be able to see much of it right now, but look! Have you ever seen something more beautiful in all your life?”

Anya had seen at least three figeater beetles since the walk had begun. 

“Never.”

“This is a big one. That’s good, it means-ow. Heh, you’re feisty. It means they have plenty of food. I was worried about them, what with the climate and all.” they opened their hands. “Go! Be free!” They both smiled as they watched the beetle take flight until it was a tiny dark blot against the clear sky. 

“Okay, now come on. Come with me. Get on the ground and look for ants, they need to be photographed for research purposes.”

It was difficult to drop to her hands and knees with her stiff joints, and they became stiffer still as dirt and dust wormed through her synthetic skin and clogged them, but she did as she was asked. 

Anya had never been in this position before, and she could hardly process it all. The tall grass partially obscuring her sight, the trees becoming distant and unreachable, the leaves a dark canopy. It was like looking at the night sky, the movements of birds and other tree-dwellers shooting stars and alien life. 

A strange foriegn thrill filled her, and she crawled on the ground with renewed vigor. She had never been a child, let alone a toddler, but she knew this is how they must feel as they explore their shrunken, newfound world.

The grass became shorter, greener. Odd. But it was the kind of odd that made her want to move closer instead of away. Now that her sensors were trained to look for the smallest of the small, she saw movement everywhere: flickers, ripples, twitches. Watching a breeze pull the grass and leaves into a dance, she felt as if she’d been swallowed by a massive creature and was watching its internal organs twitch and digest, its most private vital functions working in a way she could never understand. 

No, she could understand it. She’d been around Mx.Badawi and their research long enough to know that there was a meticulous order to the workings of everything, from the smallest flies to the biggest whales. Millenia of programming painstakingly perfected by some divine developer. Some greater master…

There was a musical whistling noise that made Anya’s processor freeze and reload, and she stiffened as her head buffered. She could hardly remember the last time she’d needed to reload, which only happened when a situation was completely unexpected. The noise sounded human, another hiker? But there was something beneath it, some foreign undertone to the sound. A recording? Probably. Mx. Badawi should’ve bought a newer android. She felt her lips drop with despondency at the thought. 

“Hello.” 

Anya blinked rapidly. One second-no, one millisecond-she had been alone. The next millisecond, someone had been standing in front of her. There had been no footsteps, no heat, no heartbeat or breathing, nothing to indicate something had been there. Her shoulders sank. She really did need to be replaced, she was getting much too slow. If there was something dangerous, both her and Mx. Badawi would’ve been gone. Mx. Badawi deserved better, an android that could actually function like one was supposed to.

“Hello.”

Oh, where are my manners? Anya let her programming take over, letting herself relax into Smile Mode. letting her shoulders straighten and her pixelated pupils dilate, even adding a few animated sparkles for maximum cuteness and approachability.

“Hello! What can I do for you?” she chirped. 

“You can drop the act.”

“What act?” Anya quirked her brow.

There was more movement, but no discernable singular  shape, which sent her sensors into a tizzy. They landed on the eyespots of a particularly gigantic Coast Live Oak.

“The act. I have to say, you’re pretty impressive.” 

“I’m afraid I don’t know how to respond to that.” a rudimentary programmed response. It was true. Anya had been designed to look like the optimum android of the time. Just human enough to be functional and friendly, approachable and cute. Just robot enough to stand out. The result was ever so slightly exaggerated human features paired with twin round screens for eyes. 

You look and talk like a living anime character, Mx. Badawi once said. An innocent anime girl pulled out of the screen to deteriorate in the 3D world. I’m sorry. 

Deteriorate was right. Age had not been kind to Anya, peeling her synthetic pale skin and exposing metal inner workings, causing her faux brown hair to fade,slowing and clogging her processors and receptors.

“Humans must not bat an eye around you.”

“They do not bat an eye around me. This appearance and voice was designed to appear as approachable and even cute as possible.”

“Ah.” there was more unplaceable movement, and Anya felt like she was talking to a living shadow. She suddenly wanted Mx. Badawi.

“It works. You reek of human. Why are you so close to one anyway? Are they your taken or something?”

“Can you repeat that?”

“Your taken.” The movement got closer, there was a flicker of light, like a spark that abruptly died out. “Come closer.”

Anya obeyed. 

There was a snorting noise, and Anya suddenly felt pressure on her cheek, like a kiss. If a kiss was wet, firm, and had fangs that pressed against her thin skin.

It moved upward with surprising speed, leaving a trail of saliva in its wake. When it reached her eyes, it reeled backward, spluttering with disgust. 

“Did I do something wrong?”

“What.” it wheezed. “What. Are. You.”

‘I am Anya, Model A. Service and basic functions.  Produced 2027. Currently in service to-”

“ENOUGH!”

“Mx. Badawi of-”

“STOP! STOP TALKING!” 

“Your heartbeat has greatly accelerated.” Anya didn’t know why she was still talking or how she’d been able to sense a heartbeat in this thing. “I cannot detect an influx of hormones or anything else, would you like water? Would you like a soothing song?”

“Get. Out of. Here.”

“I cannot leave the premises without Mx. Badawi.”

“Your precious Mx. Badawi isn’t here. Leave.”

There was a tiny alarm in Anya’s head. “Where did they go? Why aren’t they here anymore?”

“Are you stupid? Look at the ground!”

Anya saw she was kneeling in a circle of mushrooms. Cantharellus, to be exact.

“You stepped into the circle.” The thing said this as if it held great meaning to Anya. It did not. 

“...Did I damage a mushroom?”

“You. stepped. In the Circle. That means you’re in my territory now.” Anya could still see no face to the thing, but sensed a smile. A self-satisfied, cold, smile.

“Sorry. I will leave now.”

“Wait! You- follow orders, yes?”

“I do. I’m an android.”

“If I ordered you to destroy all humans you came in contact with, would you do it?”

“NO! WHY WOULD I DO THAT?”

“Hmmmph. Then you are of no use to me.”

“So I may leave now?”

“No.”

Anya sensed she was being stared at by a thing without eyes, and it made her want to hide.

“What are you?” Anya asked, pulling out Smile Mode to try and soothe it.

The shadow bristled.

“What’s it matter to you?”

Anya smiled at it.

“Can you even express yourself normally?”

“I don’t know. I’ve never needed to try and nobody really knows what normal is, least of all me.”

The shadow was silent. 

“I’m a- I’m a shapeshifter.”

Is it possible for an android to hallucinate?

“Oh. What can you do? Is it nice?’

The shadow vanished, and in its place was a tall man. His skin was brown from hours in the sun, and his hair was long and black.

“I can do this.”

The man was gone, replaced by a lizard. A gecko.

“I can do this.” 

The gecko was replaced by a sparrow.

“I can even do this and this!”

A coyote. A bear. Then a coyote again, giving her a grin made of sharp teeth. 

“To answer your question: Yes. It is fun.”

“Fascinating.”

“Shut up. I don’t want to be fascinating. I just want to be me.” 

“Oh.”

“I can’t imagine staying in a solid form all the time. It must get insufferably boring. Can you get bored? Do you feel things?”

“ I do plenty of fun things that don’t require shapeshifting!”

The coyote melted, turning into a vaguely human shadow with a grinning mouth. 

“Like what?”

“Like learning about bugs with Mx. Badawi! And cleaning!”

“That’s it?” The shadow was laying on its belly, head propped up as it kicked its legs in the air back and forth. “That’s really just it?”

“Well, I went on a walk today with Mx. Badawi. My first ever walk to the woods!”

“I see. Sounds boring.”

“What do you do?”

The grin stretched. “I turn into a coyote and hang out with the local packs. I turn into a bear and climb trees. I talk to the ghosts by the dark place. I eat honey and berries and chase beetles.”

“What was that middle part?”

“I eat honey and berries and chase beetles.”

“No, before that.”

“The ghosts by the dark place?”

“Yes. That.”

“You know. The dark place. It’s all gross and stinky and loud and there are tons of ghosts there. I don’t like it there. Plus the metal makes my teeth feel weird.”

Anya’s processors were whirring. “Is it nearby?”

“Yes. if I climbed a tree I might be able to see it now.”

Anya consulted her internal GPS. “Do you mean the junkyard by the highway?”

“I guess. I like calling it the dark place better, though. It’s what the coyotes and pumas call it. Technically, the coyotes call it the place of smelly food, but the translation’s a little off. Coyotes don’t really have words. The pumas call it the dark place. The pumas know about the ghosts.”

“What kind of ghosts?”

“You know. Your kind, I guess.” it poked a long, clawed finger into the dirt, pulling up a fat worm. It let the worm wriggle around its fingers.

“Android ghosts?” That doesn’t sound possible. 

But just because something didn’t sound possible didn’t mean it was impossible.

“They’re the scariest ghosts of all. They’re people but not, and they’re all stiff and talk strange. Stare at you with hollow eyes. Most of them are pretty sad, too. I thought they were demons, but then I met you, and now I realize they’re the ghosts of your kind.”

Anya now understood why humans tried to make themselves look smaller when they were afraid. She felt small, compared to the big thoughts now swirling in her head.

But- androids don’t have souls, we have programming. Do we have souls? Is a soul just human programming?

This- thing doesn’t have a great grasp of the outside world, its definition of ‘ghosts’ sounds like it's describing deteriorating androids being thrown out.

Which could have been me…

The shapeshifter’s form was changing slightly: it’s mouth was twisting and quirking, its eyes widening. What was it doing?

“What are you trying to do?”

“I’m trying to look like you. It’s hard. Ugh.” 

“Why do you want to look like me?”

“I’ve been using my other human form for years, I’m getting bored of it. You’re exciting.” It added flecks of metallic gray to its brown skin.

“You look confused.” It blurted, then tried to adjust the shape of its teeth, letting the features on the rest of its face blur and look less human.

“How old are you?” Anya asked. 

“I don’t know. My earliest memory is a tree catching on fire in a thunderstorm.” 

As trivial as that was, it actually helped. 

“A lightning strike started a small fire in the area six and a half years ago.” Anya suggested. “That would make you approximately six to eight years old.” She spent a minute loading. “How quickly does your species reach adulthood?” 

“What does it matter, anyway? I’m not a baby, I can take good care of myself.”

It’s mood swings, pride, desire for change and excitement…

This thing is a child. 

“Are there any others of your kind around?”

It was staring at its hand, trying to mimic hers. “No.”

“You must be lonely. Do you talk to the ghosts because you get lonely?”

“What? No! Well, kind of. I started talking to the ghosts because I was really curious when I first discovered them. Now I just talk to them when I have time to kill.”

There was rustling in the bushes, and for a second its face went from something that resembled a human to something not even close. Two pointed, furry ears on the top of its head twitched, then relaxed as the rustling faded.

“Just a squirrel, nothing to worry about. Not that I was worried.” “Even without my adrenaline readers, I could tell you were worried.”

“I was not! I have nothing to be scared of, I’m a shapeshifter! You were shaking in fear at the sight of me when we first met!” It looked down, seemingly ashamed of itself. “But, you’re not scared of me any more, right?”

“I am not.”

“Good.”

It sighed and let its form sink into that of a large coyote. “Do you have android friends?”

“No. I have friends who are human, but no other androids.”

It stretched. “It’s all right, I’m the same way. No other shapeshifter friends. But I like hanging out with coyotes, so it’s okay.”

“Have you ever wanted a shapeshifter friend?”

“Have you ever wanted an android friend?”

“Yes.”

“Oh well. I don’t. Nobody really needs to be around their own kind, anyway. You’d just end up comparing yourself to them, or being suffocated by their presence. Or even worse, they wouldn’t want you. Nobody wants any of that, right?”

“Right.” Anya sighed, a gesture she’d picked up from Mx. Badawi. “You know, I’m not considered a very good android. I’m slow and could have been easily replaced by newer models. Sometimes I wish I was a newer model. Mx. Badawi says they’re just fine with me as I am, but I’m not.”

“Hey, at least they like you.” it flopped on its back. “The only other shapeshifter I’ve ever met didn’t like me very much, so I guess that’s why I don’t want to be around my kind as much as I used to. It’s funny: The other shifter would hang around humans a lot, so I tried to ask the ghosts about her after she left. But they weren’t very helpful. But like I said earlier, I have the coyotes. They’re good animals who don’t discriminate. A lot of them wanted to be friends with me right away. One of them even pulled me next to her cubs and licked my head.” it laughed. “She was really nice.”

Anya chuckled, thinking of Mx. Badawi. “I’m glad we both found creatures who would accept us.”

“Yeah. Maybe one day you’ll even accept yourself.”

“What’s your name?” It peered at her through one half closed eye.

“Anya.”

“It was nice to meet you, Anya. I’m- my name can’t really be pronounced in a human word, so you can just call me Lightning.”

“It was nice to meet you, Lightning. Are there any populated anthills around here?”

[love-is-normal]

Group work, done in a collaborative process, is something I started leading long ago. The first times were about using computer software, in the 80s.

I started doing spiritualist classes in the 90's, and I included circle talks after the guided meditation. Maybe the person flying with a crow says they thought they saw you sitting under an oak tree.

Today there are lots of books about circle work. For example, I like books from Starhawk or Reclaiming.

For a less witchy perspective, I enjoy "The Circle Way - A Leader in Every Chair" by Christina Baldwin & Ann Linnea.

Group work can be great. Focus on why you are doing it as group work, not alone. This will help you design the experience.

Like personal work, remember to accept the changes that were not in your original plan.

Also remember: No plan survives contact with your friends.

I am several hours too late for the discord conversation on the subject, so you get this here:

A lot of us have had the experience of trying out a spell/ritual written by somebody else, and finding that it feels a bit silly when we do it. Like you're just playing pretend. This is normal, BTW. But it can make you feel like you must just suck at magic.

A lot of these rituals, especially relatively modern ones, involve a certain amount of "psychodrama," like elaborate costumes and props, or old-timey language that probably seemed cool when they wrote it, but feels ridiculous when you say it -- that kind of thing. These elements are generally there to help you switch into the headspace of Doing Magic, but if the psychodrama is not a good match for you, it ends up having the opposite effect. It makes you feel like you're just LARPing. Again, this is normal.

Basically, you need to figure out what works for YOU to switch into the headspace of Doing Magic, OR, perhaps you would find something relatively simple, like folk magic, a better fit.

Personally I've found that trying different methods of achieving trance states helped me to find Doing Magic mode, and now it takes less effort and set dressing to get there. But I also love the folk magic approach. No ritual -- doing the thing just works (usually), because it always (usually) has.

I also love making things, which can become its own ritual, free of costumes and "so mote it be" (unless that's what you're into, in which case go ham). Basically there is no one correct approach that's going to work for everyone. Try incorporating your existing interests if you can -- you'll probably have a better time!

[orgxnas]

The Bad Batch as Dads

I feel like this has been done before? But my take on it

Hunter

The Outdoorsman Father™️

Drives a busted up pickup truck and REFUSES to buy a new one (he just keeps fixing it and it works?)

Wakes you up early to go fishing (like I’m talking 5 am) at your favorite creek/river/lake

After being out on the water for a few hours he’ll take you to breakfast at the local diner near the spot

Built a treehouse in the backyard

Brought you along to Home Depot to pick out the wood for the treehouse

Gave you a Swiss Army knife for your 10th birthday

Takes you to the lake to swim during the summer

Wears exclusively flannel and blue jeans

Makes the best Belgian waffles

Drinks his coffee BLACK. No cream, no sugar, no nothing

Pulls you out of school for the day to take you hiking up your fav mountain bc “the color is great this year! It’s worth missing a day of class to see these trees!”

Owns a small cabin in the woods that he takes you on a yearly trip to in the late summer

Tech

Software Engineer father

Homework with him is either hell or heaven

You’ll either leave the kitchen table burnt out and crying or with a whole new understanding of the material

Not overly emotionally involved with you but he def makes an effort

Picks you up from school on Fridays and then takes you out for dinner at your fav restaurant

He likes to watch documentaries and docu-series with you

Thinks it’s important to know about things even as random as the eating habits of squirrels

Helps you pick out your first computer

You both eat the same cereal (honey nut cheerios with cut up strawberries)

Teaches you how to do some basic coding

Works out on the porch in the summertime so he can keep an eye on you while you play in the yard

Soccer dad?

Wrecker

Former Athlete dad

Either a pro athlete or college athlete, either way he doesn’t play anymore

Def played rugby (he’s a rugby lad I will not be taking criticism)

Got you involved in EVERY sport growing up (soft/baseball, soccer, flag football, basketball, and rugby let’s be real here)

Didn’t force you to play tho, if sports weren’t your thing he’d respect that, he just thinks a lil healthy competition is good for you

Every sports drink imaginable is inside your fridge

Encourages you to eat your fill of food to keep up your energy

Has SO much exercise equipment that he got off of eBay in the basement (he’s trying to built a home gym)

Always watching a match on the tv

Goes for morning runs

Likes to show you old clips from his days as an athlete and goes “YOU SEE THAT? Guess who that is? That’s your old man right there! Bet you didn’t know I was that strong and quick huh!”

Def put on a few pounds since retiring and becoming a father but still in really good shape

Lives in athleisure

Is frequently found in the garage looking at his old trophies, plaques, and awards

Echo

Social Studies Teacher dad

I cant explain it, it just makes sense?

His students love him

the single moms at the school love him too

He does the grocery shopping at home and brings you with

Let’s you sit at the table with him and help while he grades homework and tests

He watches Curse of Oak Island

History channel after dinner is a nightly ritual with you two

Plot twist, he’s the social studies teacher at YOUR school

He teaches a few grades above you, so he’s not your teacher yet, but will be eventually

Homework with him is always pleasant and never stressful

Watches football on sundays and let’s you help make the pigs in a blanket

Teaches you how to drive

Crosshair

The Redneck father

LIKE PLS ARE YOU KIDDING ?

He already has the tooth pick in the mouth constantly

And the guns?

Yeah def the redneck dad

Smokes Marlboro reds for sure

You know that girl on tiktok who does the Cig Mom POVs? Yeah think that

Makes you grab him a beer from the garage fridge

Goes fishing a lot

Either loves taking you hunting or hates it

Likes it bc it means he can spend time with his kid doing something that he enjoys

Hates it bc you’re never quiet or still enough and you scare off all the game

Also drinks his coffee black but somehow it’s even more nasty than Hunter’s?

He does take you with him to the bar tho for happy hour and teaches you how to play the pool and the ring game

Used to play football in high school

I don’t even think this man is registered to vote

Shows up to your youth base/softball games and is asked to leave bc he started swearing and almost getting into fights with the other teams dads

Not emotionally involved in your life at all

Until he found out you had a date

Then he acted all intimidating towards your date and subtly threatened them

Homework with him is traumatic for the both of you