#building a better future

[harmonyhealinghub]

Celebrating Indigenous Brilliance: A Path Towards Reconciliation

Shaina Tranquilino

October 9, 2023

In our continuous journey towards reconciliation, it is essential that we strive to dismantle stereotypes and misconceptions about Indigenous communities. Too often, the narratives surrounding Indigenous peoples focus solely on their suffering and trauma, perpetuating a one-dimensional view of their experiences. However, as Len Pierre rightly asserts, we must also make a conscious effort to learn about and celebrate the brilliance and success within Indigenous cultures. By doing so, we can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the resilience and diversity that defines these remarkable communities.

The Importance of Shifting Perspectives:

For far too long, mainstream media has predominantly portrayed Indigenous communities through a lens of victimhood, emphasizing historical injustices and ongoing struggles. While acknowledging past and present challenges is crucial in understanding the systemic issues faced by Indigenous populations, it is equally vital to recognize their achievements and contributions across various fields.

Indigenous Brilliance: A Rich Tapestry of Success:

Indigenous cultures are rooted in ancient wisdom, profound spirituality, and a deep connection with nature. They possess an innate ability to adapt to changing environments while preserving their heritage. The world owes much gratitude to Indigenous peoples for invaluable contributions in areas such as art, music, literature, science, medicine, education, sports, activism, and more.

Artistic Expressions: From traditional crafts like weaving and pottery to contemporary forms like painting and sculpture, Indigenous artists have enriched global artistic traditions with their unique perspectives. Their work serves as a powerful medium for storytelling while preserving cultural identity.

Literary Legacy: From oral traditions passed down through generations to modern literary works exploring personal experiences or societal issues relevant today – Indigenous authors bring forth diverse narratives that enlighten readers worldwide. Their stories shed light on the richness of indigenous cultures' histories while providing valuable insights into contemporary life.

Scientific Innovations: Indigenous knowledge systems boast sustainable practices that have guided societies for centuries. Techniques related to agriculture, land conservation, and medicinal plant usage demonstrate a deep understanding of the natural world. By incorporating this wisdom into modern scientific practices, Indigenous communities contribute to ecological sustainability and inspire innovative approaches.

Sports and Athletics: Indigenous athletes have achieved remarkable success on national and international platforms. Whether it be in hockey, lacrosse, basketball, or other sports – their talent and determination serve as inspirations for future generations while dismantling stereotypes.

Activism and Community Leadership: Indigenous individuals have been at the forefront of social movements advocating for human rights, environmental protection, and cultural preservation. Their contributions continue to shape policies that promote inclusivity, justice, and equity for all.

Len Pierre's quote emphasizes the need to celebrate Indigenous brilliance alongside acknowledging their suffering and trauma. By expanding our knowledge about the achievements and successes within Indigenous cultures, we can break free from limited narratives. It is through this understanding that we pave the way towards reconciliation based on mutual respect, appreciation, and a genuine desire to learn from one another. Let us collectively embark on a journey that recognizes the resilience, brilliance, and strength inherent in Indigenous communities worldwide.

[mgarocks]

The Power of Open Source: A Community Beyond Code

In today’s digital age, the open source community is shaping more than just software—it’s shaping the future. What started as a way to share code freely has evolved into a global movement rooted in collaboration, transparency, and shared purpose. At its core, open source is about breaking down barriers and building bridges between people, ideas, and innovation.

Open source projects are developed openly, allowing anyone to access, contribute to, and improve them. This approach brings together diverse minds—developers, designers, writers, and enthusiasts—from around the world. Everyone, regardless of background or experience, has the opportunity to make an impact.

One of the most powerful aspects of this community is the culture of learning and mentorship it fosters. New contributors are often supported by seasoned experts, creating a welcoming space for growth and development. This inclusive environment empowers individuals to expand their skills, build their portfolios, and often launch careers in tech.

Many open source initiatives also focus on solving real-world challenges—improving education, healthcare, accessibility, and more. They serve as living proof that when people unite around a common goal, they can achieve meaningful change.

The open source community is more than a network of coders—it's a movement committed to building a better future. By working together and sharing knowledge freely, this global ecosystem is creating tools, technologies, and opportunities that benefit everyone.

[mikehaysbooks]

A Words Look: Hope by Pope Francis, Part 2.

Build a better future by building a better now. My reading for Lent this year was Pope Francis’s autobiography, Hope. The Pope says in the introduction that this book was scheduled to be released after his death, but he felt the current state of worldly affairs warranted its release before his death and before he fell ill and was hospitalized. It makes me wonder if he knew his end was near and…

[justaz]

i made percy and annabeth in the sims and percy just walked outside and got struck by lightning

[aerithisms]

one thing i do think people really need to pull the haterism brakes on is saying it's an insult that ncuti's era is so short. ncuti chose to leave of his own volition. i think this was a completely understandable choice given the contractual limbo the show is in and i don't blame him at all but he was not by any means pushed out the door or written out when he didn't want to be. for all the things it's fair to slate rtd for this is actually not among them.

[kagooleo]

happy new years 2025! it's been nearly a whole year since I started posting about fluffyriceshipping here, and my art has changed a lot since then! what better way to start the new year than with some sweet potatoes with their partners 🍠🌅

[ahappenstancedoodle]

I don't know what possessed me to draw this, and I don't know who this character will be... but I love her.

I'm picturing her as a folk musician from some fantasy island nation, but that's likely to change at some point since I'm still world building.

(Image Description: a digital drawing of an unnamed original fantasy character. She is a fat woman with light brown skin, dark hair and eyes, and a hooked nose. She is wearing a pinkish-purple head wrap, a white sleeveless shirt, a dark brown skirt with an over-layer similar in colour to the head wrap, and tan sandals. The woman has a bright, open smile on her face, and is holding a drum in one hand and banging on it with the other. End Image Description.)

(@fatphobiabusters @timidsketch I hope it's okay to tag you all! I'm kinda counting this as an entry to FLAugust's Music prompt.)

[sun-e-chips]

Hi! Me again! So, just out of curiosity, would you happen to have a general floor plan or site plan of the overall waterpark and maybe the hotel? (I saw the floor plan for the hotel room and started wondering how the hotel connects to the waterpark). Also, are Sun and Moon only in charge of the waterpark portion?

@agent-darkfest you asked this question in May! I can’t believe it took me this long to actually illustrate a general layout but here it is!!!

Every room gets a waterpark view :D

“On either side of the atrium, connected to the lobby, there are corridors leading into the park’s resort rooms. From what you remember the resort circles half the park, sort of like a C-shape enclosing the front section.”

And to answer your other question, Sun and Moon are in charge of the entire resort and park! (but they did not when Waterspark Bay first opened)

[freckleslikestars]

I owe you everything, Scully, and you owe me nothing.

Acrylic on canvas, A3

[nekoprankster218]

you know, even tho canonically Thel and pre-rampancy!Cortana knew each other for like only a few hours, I still think a face-to-face interaction between them during the Created era would’ve been neat; esp since even tho they didn’t know each other for too long, Thel was there as Chief grieved and searched for her and likely she became aware at some point what good allies they are with each other, so that still might’ve influenced smth of their interactions as they debated whose galactic socio-political ambitions was the best way forward

[mgarocks]

Transform Your Life: Step Into the Best Version of You

Transform your life by shifting your mindset, embracing purpose, and taking inspired action. Let go of limitations and rediscover your true potential. Whether you're seeking clarity, confidence, or meaningful change, the journey begins with one bold decision—to live a life aligned with who you truly are.

[mikehaysbooks]

A Words Look: Hope by Pope Francis, Part 2.

Build a better future by building a better now. My reading for Lent this year was Pope Francis’s autobiography, Hope. The Pope says in the introduction that this book was scheduled to be released after his death, but he felt the current state of worldly affairs warranted its release before his death and before he fell ill and was hospitalized. It makes me wonder if he knew his end was near and…

[grimfolks]

I felt like Winchester was feeling too small for Daphne, loved the island vibes but it was a little too small, always running into the same people and with not that much to do on a friday night when she's not working so I moved her over to SimLau Isles.

[elderwisp]

[virtues-end]

I am absolutely not asking for you to add this to the story because I feel like readers have gotten very free with asking authors to tweak stuff and it's been very entitled in some cases, BUT:

I am imagining the delicious angst of a helvling who took Shea's last name mournfully dropping it after the Ch. 1 revelations. Because apparently they did not have the relationship built on trust the helvling thought they had, and, moreover, why would the helvling want to be associated with Shea's family if that's who it includes?

Yeah, I've talked about it (the last name thing) before in a previous ask. I might yet add it a little further down the line, or when I'm making final edits to the game.

[nikysavi]

daughter's/father's found hope