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One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This by Omar El Akkad

Like Alice in Wonderland, I’ve fallen into a reality so disturbing it turned my world upside down. It happened when I finally began paying attention to what Israhell is doing to Palestinians.

I was at a bookstore, holding Mark Carney’s Values, when I spotted another title: One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This. I didn’t know what it was about, but the title said what I've been constantly reminding myself. I put Values back on the shelf. I was searching for a reaffirmation that human rights still matter, that our societies still operate or at least should operate with morality and justice for all. But increasingly, I see actions that betray the very values we claim to uphold and I feel alone. I decided to return to Carney’s book later, to better understand the gap between what we say and what we do. But in that moment, One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This felt more urgent, more honest.

When I discovered the book was about Palestine, about the exact questions I had been grappling with, it felt like a sign. Though we may feel scattered and disconnected, often by the design of the ruling class, there’s something universal and deeply human that binds us all. Every time someone speaks up whether it's through art, music, writing, fashion, design, or even a note left in a subscription cancellation "Free Palestine!" - we find each other. We are building a community of resistors. A community that refuses to look away. A community that will, in time, dismantle the systems of fascism and oppression that others support, deny, or ignore only to claim later they were “always against it.”

By the way, when mass murderers kill millions they don't realize that for every act of violence, the number of people opposing them only grows. Their short-sightedness is a reason why fascists like them never relent; they continue to create horrors that ultimately impact countless lives expends to more and more countries. In the end, these criminal groups are inevitably stopped by force.

What is the book about? It's talking about how we’ve been made to serve Zionist supremacist agendas. How atrocities are carried out with our tax dollars and in our names. The illusion of the West as a beacon of justice and humanity is bleeding out in plain view. You might shrug and say, “I don’t care, as long as I get my extra $850 a year.” But when we accept injustice for others, we normalize it for ourselves. We are setting the standards for the world we will have to live in.

This book doesn’t just expose what’s being done to Palestinians. It reveals truths about ourselves. It unpacks the propaganda and manipulation that make us believe we’re defending democracy, waging wars “against terror,” or standing “for peace.” But, like in Orwell’s 1984, the reality is often the exact opposite.

Why does this matter? That’s a real question, because sometimes it’s hard to tell. When you speak about human rights or justice, many people roll their eyes or shut down. It often only becomes “important” when their own lives or freedoms are on the line. But by then, it may be too late. “History teaches people that it teaches people nothing.”

Briliant writing, every page filled with wisdom, opening your eyes to our place and role what's happening in the world.

Brilliant writing, every page filled with wisdom, opening your eyes to our place and role what's happening in the world. While seeing the truth is going to be ugly, the book is truly empowering. There's a value in being well-informed and educated citizen and nation who cannot be pushed around. There's so much to reflect and think about. Join our book club and participate in the discussions. boldmove.ca/bookclub

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Have you watched: Don't Worry Darling?

At first glance, it’s a dreamy world: sunny skies, perfect lawns, elegant dinner parties. But beneath the surface? A chilling, controlled illusion.

In Don't Worry Darling, reality is reprogrammed, literally. What feels like love and comfort is gradually revealed as manipulation and control. One of the most striking moments? When Alice cracks eggs only to find nothing inside. A perfect metaphor: something that appears full, nourishing, and wholesome on the outside can be hollow within.

The film echoes a disturbing truth about human psychology. For decades, psychologists have studied how people live inside mental “bubbles,” ignoring contradictions and failing to see the obvious.

Cognitive dissonance is the discomfort we feel when our actions contradict our values. For example, lying despite seeing ourselves as honest.

Groupthink arises when maintaining harmony is valued more than critical thinking, like staying silent when we know something is wrong just to avoid confrontation.

Confirmation bias makes us cling to information that supports our beliefs and ignore anything that challenges them, such as only following media that aligns with our views.

Inattentional blindness is when we fail to notice something right in front of us because our focus is elsewhere.

In today’s world, where information is just a scroll away and yet we all manage to live in different realities, Don't Worry Darling feels eerily timely. After WWII, many Germans claimed they had no idea about the atrocities committed against Jews. There was a widespread perception not of injustice, but of justice and order being restored. I always wondered, how could such denial have existed?

Fast forward to today: we scroll past footage of genocide, the starvation of civilians, the imprisonment and torture of children and doctors, Palestinians facing horrors that echo the worst chapters of human history. And still, many keep scrolling thinking it somehow is a complicated matter.

How can slaughtering of civilians, starving people to death, imprisonment and torture of kids under 14 and without any reason be ever ok? The moment you begin to think that any of that is perhaps somehow justified, congratulations, you've earned your swastika.

This film is a wake-up call. To open our eyes. To study the facts. To go beyond headlines and hashtags. Because our ignorance is going to harm us.

Have you seen the movie? What stayed with you? Any examples you can add that highlight how we fail to see the realities around us?

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Some time ago, I started learning more about our political parties to better understand where they stand on Palestine. At first, I believed I was helping Palestinians. But what I’ve come to realize is much deeper: caring about Palestinians opened my eyes to the quiet erosion of our democracy. It’s happening right in front of us, and most of us are too overwhelmed or distracted to see it.

😨The bad news: While the Conservative leader threatens us with Trump-style repression for daring to speak out against Israhell, the Liberal leader has declared Iran and China, countries that dared to criticize Israhell, as Canada’s biggest threats. We’re being groomed to support wars that have nothing to do with protecting Canadian lives or interests. If we’re not careful, we’ll be fighting wars to build Israhell’s empire while it provides free everything for its citizens.

So how are they pulling this off? We marketers often use the following trick. You give people two choices: “Would you like coffee A or coffee B?”. They start evaluating which one they prefer. You might wish they buy A coffee, but at the end of the day, whatever they choose, you win cause both A & B coffee belong to you.

😎The good news: We still live in a democracy. But democracy doesn’t run on autopilot. You must have noticed that on questionable deals, rising poverty, and decreasing happiness. For democracy to work, we need to be awake and engaged. That will make our deception harder. And here’s more good news: we can vote.

No, I don’t believe this post, unfunded and with limited reach, can singlehandedly vote Zionist-installed leaders out of our government (though that would be great). But I hope it inspires us to push back and win as many seats as possible for the party whose top priority is Canada and nothing else.

Back to the cover image: Should you vote for money or for our liberties? “Just give me the money” may sound tempting, but the promise of “more in your pocket” is a lie. No politician can guarantee the future. But when we prioritize our liberties such as freedom of speech and ensure we control our own resources, we create real, lasting prosperity. We’ll have as much as we earn, build, and protect. Vote for rights!

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What use is a road if it doesn’t lead to humanity and kindness?

So much is happening all at once, so many fires everywhere, an overwhelming blitz of events designed to leave us paralyzed, unable to react. This fascist warfare tactic used during World War II, is not random — it is deliberate. We can all sense that normalizing extremely abnormal events won’t end well. It is already creating horrors for countless courageous individuals and even ordinary civilians who only wish to live their lives.

Tengiz Abuladze’s Repentance (Monanieba), a haunting and allegorical masterpiece reminds us that we won't be able to defeat tyranny by minding only our own business. Made in the final years of Soviet rule, the film offers a critique of authoritarianism of a Beria-like dictator.

Beyond its Soviet context, Repentance shows universal cycles of repression and the moral reckoning societies must eventually face. At first, despite the clear signs, some refuse to believe something sinister is unfolding. They dismiss disappearances as mistakes, assure their loved ones that things will be fine until the machinery of oppression tightens so completely that even system insiders no longer can speak out or be safe.

The film’s message is chillingly relevant today, as we witness wars, genocide, occupations, media silence on the most pressing issues, and societies distracted either consumed by personal struggles or numbed by meaningless entertainment.

When I see what’s happening in Palestine, I can’t help but ask: How will this end? What if absolutely no one does anything. Will the universe punish the oppressor? That question brought Repentance to mind. Just as the film examines whether healing is possible without accountability, today’s global conflicts force us to confront the consequences of unchecked power and historical injustice. The film’s central question—"What use is a road if it doesn’t lead to a church?"—symbolizes the need for moral direction. What use are policies and decisions if they are not rooted in justice and humanity?

Like the grieving citizens in Repentance, on both sides, societies today must ask what's our moral compass? Abuladze’s film is not just a relic of the past but a timeless plea for human dignity. It reminds us that as long as oppression exists, the work of resistance must continue.

Watch this one of the best movies ever in world movie history with English subtitles and let me know if it inspires any thoughts on the questions I’ve raised above.

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Why does The Heart Goes Last keep coming to mind whenever I read the news these days?

I read this book a few years ago and didn’t fully grasp its meaning at the time, but recently, the realities around me, especially horrors happening in Palestine, have brought it back to mind. I have this feeling I am in that book. I couldn't quite pinpoint why. Here's what AI had to say:

"It’s understandable why The Heart Goes Last by Margaret Atwood resonates with you. In the novel, the characters are forced to compartmentalize their emotions and normalize horrific realities in order to survive within a dystopian system. This mirrors the emotional and moral dissonance many of us feel when confronted with the overwhelming suffering and injustice in the world today—war crimes, human rights violations, environmental destruction, and systemic oppression—while being expected to carry on with "normal" life.

Atwood’s work often explores how people cope (or fail to cope) with oppressive systems, and The Heart Goes Last specifically delves into the psychological toll of living in a society that demands compliance and indifference to suffering. The characters’ struggle to maintain a facade of normalcy while being complicit in or victimized by a broken system reflects the internal conflict you’re describing.

Here’s why you might feel like a character from this book:

Moral Dissonance: The characters in The Heart Goes Last are forced to participate in or ignore unethical systems, much like how we are often expected to ignore or downplay the suffering of others in order to function in daily life.

Compartmentalization: Just as the characters must emotionally detach to survive, you might feel pressured to "brush off" the suffering of millions to maintain your own mental health or meet societal expectations. This can feel like a betrayal of your values and empathy.

The Illusion of Normalcy: The book critiques how oppressive systems maintain control by convincing people to accept the unacceptable as "normal." Similarly, the expectation to carry on as if everything is fine, despite global crises, can feel surreal and dehumanizing.

Emotional Exhaustion: The constant awareness of suffering, combined with the pressure to remain unaffected, can lead to a sense of emotional exhaustion or numbness—something the characters in Atwood’s novel experience as they navigate their dystopian reality.

Remember, feeling this way doesn’t make you complicit—it makes you human. The characters in Atwood’s novel are trapped in a system that demands their compliance, but in real life, we have the ability to resist, speak out, and work toward change, even in small ways. Your awareness and empathy are strengths, not weaknesses, even if they sometimes feel like a burden."

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Review of The Romanov Sisters by Helen Rappaport

To delve deeper into the lives of the Romanovs and reflect on the unpredictability of life, Helen Rappaport’s The Romanov Sisters is an excellent choice, whether you read the book or listen to the audio version.

Through a blend of personal letters, diaries, and historical records, Rappaport paints an intimate portrait of Russia’s last imperial family, revealing their personalities, struggles, and aspirations. This approach transforms them from distant historical figures into relatable, deeply human characters. Following their story through moments of joy and despair is not only fascinating but also emotionally gripping.

What made me fall in love with this family was their shared love of literature. They read books together and discussed them, fostering a sense of intellectual closeness. Whether they were in power or imprisoned in Siberia, they remained humble, embracing hard work and dedicating themselves to serving their people and country. Their resilience and devotion to one another is inspiring.

Knowing the tragic end of their story, I found myself paying close attention to the lessons and mistakes that could be gleaned from their lives. Here are some key reflections:

1. The Absence of Proper Public Relations

The Romanovs’ isolation from the public and their inability to adapt to the changing times are recurring themes that feel particularly poignant. Nicholas II’s reluctance to embrace political reform and Alexandra’s tendency to avoid public appearances altogether, coupled with her dependency on figures like Rasputin, were significant factors in their downfall. Their story underscores the importance of communication, public engagement and adaptability in leadership.

2. Ignoring Mental Health Issues

A granddaughter of Queen Victoria, Alexandra clearly struggled with mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. Her tendency to dwell in negativity and pain, even during good times, is striking. It’s almost as if she chose to suffer, creating a self-perpetuating cycle of despair. This aspect of her life highlights how mental health often remains in our blind spot, even for public figures, while in many cases, it has to be on their top priority list. I can't help but think about a few leaders who and whose nation would greatly benefit.

3. Refusing to Adapt

The Romanovs’ refusal to adapt to the rapidly changing times is one of the most tragic aspects of their story. Nicholas was repeatedly urged by those closest to him to compromise or even flee, but the family remained steadfast in their resistance to change. It’s like watching a ship sink and choosing to go down with it. I understand they were in love with the Russia that was but I guess no one reminds us that the world is constantly changing. We can't keep it the same.

"No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it's not the same river and he's not the same man."

— Heraclitus

Their story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of rigidity and the importance of adaptability in times of crisis.

4. The Relentless Pursuit of Power

The family’s relentless pursuit of maintaining power and securing a male heir unaware of the possibility that losing their status might have been liberating. Sometimes, holding on too tightly to something can be more damaging than letting go. If Nicholas and Alexandra had accepted their circumstances and focused on gratitude for what they had, they might have avoided becoming the primary targets of the growing hatred in Russia. But they didn't know the future. At that moment, agonizing about keeping in power seemed probably a way to be happy one glorious day.

5. The Devotion to Land Over Survival

The Romanovs’ deep connection to their homeland raises a broader question I as an emigrant often have: Why do people often prioritize land and tradition over survival? Many historical examples, including those from World War II, show that people often hesitate to flee even when danger is imminent. The Romanovs’ refusal to leave Russia, despite the escalating threats, ultimately cost them their lives. This makes me wonder if there’s a way to balance loyalty to one’s roots with the need for self-preservation. Trees can't leave but we can. I think this is on purpose.

6. Ignoring the World Outside

Another lesson from their story is that evil doesn’t disappear simply because we choose to ignore it. Nicholas and Alexandra focused intensely on their family, often neglecting the turmoil outside their walls. However, the world inevitably catches up with us, and what happens externally will always affect us internally. This underscores the importance of civic engagement and actively participating in shaping the world around us. As a public relations professional I know that vocal and most active groups have better chances to succeed.

7. The Danger of Bleeding Slowly

One of the most profound lessons is the danger of appeasing evil forces. Giving in to demands often leads to a slow erosion of power, morals, and autonomy. By the time the Romanovs realized the gravity of their situation, they were too weak to fight back. This serves as a reminder that hoping for good outcomes from bad people is a futile endeavour.

Conclusion

The Romanov Sisters is a haunting and deeply moving exploration of love, loss, and the fragility of power. It reminds us to be grateful for the freedoms we have and to protect them fiercely. Rappaport’s ability to write about people as they are without exaggerating in any direction makes this book so valuable glimpse into history.

This book left me heartbroken that the universe couldn't save the Tsar's family and life. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in history, human resilience, or the challenging times.

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Maybe You Should Talk to Someone

Self-Improvement and Therapy: My Journey Toward Growth

As far back as I can remember, I’ve always been driven to improve myself and my surroundings. Intuitively, I was drawn to people who inspired me—not necessarily family or friends, but individuals whose personalities and accomplishments I admired. As a child of busy and struggling parents, I sought advice and guidance from teachers, public figures, and authors. Over time, I noticed that their insights were instrumental in helping me make significant shifts toward the future I envisioned for myself. Therefore, seeking guidance from both formal and informal mentors became a natural part of every new beginning in my life.

However, it wasn’t until my late 30s that I encountered the concept of therapy. It happened by chance one morning while I was at the library, browsing through the shelves as I often do in hopes of making unexpected discoveries. That day, a book titled The Examined Life by Stephen Grosz caught my attention. As I began reading, I found myself captivated by the author’s approach—he shared stories of his patients and, at the end of each chapter, provided a diagnosis based on his reasoning. I was amazed by how often they related to childhood experiences.

I wondered what would explain the choices I had made in my personal relationships that, at the time, I couldn’t fully explain. First, I was stunned that such a question even arose. Up until that point, I hadn’t even recognized that I had a pattern. But what came next was even more mind-blowing: I was able to put myself in the role of a therapist and, in doing so, I identified the root cause of my pattern. It was a moment of both enlightenment and confusion, leaving me with one major question: What do I do next?

The desire to grow, to live a more fulfilled and aware life, led me to therapy. It became an important part of my journey—much like occasionally checking your blind spots while driving. That’s why I find myself puzzled when people say they don’t need therapy or react with surprise or offence when asked if they’ve considered it. Honestly, everyone needs therapy—even therapists themselves.

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Book That Proves the Power of Therapy

Lori Gottlieb’s memoir Maybe You Should Talk to Someone is a perfect illustration of why therapy is essential for everyone. This insightful book offers an intimate look at the vulnerability of being human, with all its complexities, struggles, and moments of self-discovery.

In the book, Gottlieb introduces us to a diverse range of characters—patients she works with and her own therapist. Through their stories, readers get to witness raw emotions, unexpected breakthroughs, what keeps people stuck, and the ongoing challenges people face when they commit to their growth.

One of the most powerful aspects of the book is the reminder that we are the ones who define ourselves. We have the power to decide who we want to be. It’s crucial to understand that you are not the label someone else or you’ve assigned to yourself; you can become anything you want. It’s mind-blowing that in a world where you can be anything, some people choose to be assholes anyway. By the way, one of the characters in this book represents them—giving us an opportunity to explore possible causes.

How Therapy and Coaching Lead to Transformation

Our willingness to reach out for help, to confront the parts of ourselves we often try to hide, or the pain we carry, be vulnerable in the face of uncertainty can help. We can all change ourselves and improve our lives if we are open to making the required changes. On the other hand, if you think therapy is bullshit and you don’t need it at all, chances are you need it the most.

Like therapy, life coaching offers a supportive space for self-exploration and personal development. Coaching empowers individuals to confront their limiting beliefs, set meaningful goals, and create new pathways to personal fulfillment. It’s about taking ownership of your life and making bold moves—whether that’s shifting careers, overcoming personal challenges, or finding deeper meaning in your day-to-day existence.

Ready to Grow? Let’s Make it Happen Together.

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Unveiling the Complexity of Caring Nature: Lessons from Nurse Ratched

When I first learned that 'caring' can have negative underlying issues, I was taken aback but intrigued enough to delve deeper into the concept. As someone who values compassion and kindness, I found myself reflecting on instances where the 'care' I received felt misplaced and unwelcome. As an independent and free-spirited individual, I instinctively resisted yet couldn't quite pinpoint what was wrong.

The book we recently read at my book club provided an excellent opportunity to delve deeper into this concept. Nurse Ratched's character appears to care about her patients, but it doesn't take long to realize that her actions are evil. This stark contrast between a caring facade and sinister intentions prompts us to examine the darker side of an apparently caring nature. 

Between a caring soul and a controlling tyrant, there are many variations. Let's discuss possible issues associated with caring that people might be suffering from:

Control and Power: Life is uncertain. Individuals may knowingly or unknowingly adopt a caring facade to exert control or exercise power. This can manifest in authoritarian behaviour, manipulation, and the imposition of strict rules and regulations. 

Insecurity and Fear: Some people may adopt a caring persona out of a fear of vulnerability or insecurity about their own worth.

Validation and Recognition: Seeking validation and admiration from others can motivate individuals to engage in caring behaviours, often for self-serving purposes.

Self-Interest: Beneath the guise of compassion, individuals may prioritize their own interests, using kindness as a means to achieve personal gain or maintain social status.

Trauma and Past Experiences: Past experiences of trauma, neglect, or abuse can shape individuals' attitudes and behaviours toward a caring nature. Some may adopt a caring facade as a coping mechanism to mask their own pain or to seek redemption for past wrongdoings.

Social Expectations and Norms: Cultural and societal expectations surrounding care and kindness may pressure individuals to conform to certain behaviours, even if their motivations are insincere.

Understanding these complexities can assist us in navigating the intricacies of human behaviour and relationships. Whether you frequently find yourself unappreciated for the kindness and care you provide or you feel you are the recipient of unwelcomed 'care,' identifying the root causes can aid in finding a solution.

Now, back to Nurse Ratched, whose character made me wonder about the existence of justice and what had led her to become the person she is. I wish someone would write Ken Kesey's novel "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" from her perspective or at least provide more insights into her life and internal world. Here are some issues she could be suffering from, contributing to her evil behaviour:

Authoritarianism and Control: Nurse Ratched's rigid adherence to rules, intolerance of dissent, and need for dominance stems from deep-seated insecurities and a fear of losing control.

Manipulative Behavior: She employs manipulative tactics, such as gaslighting and passive-aggressive remarks, to assert her superiority and maintain her power over the patients and staff.

Lack of Empathy: Her cold demeanour and lack of compassion indicate a disconnect from her own emotions and an inability to empathize with others.

Narcissistic Tendencies: Her grandiose sense of self-importance and lack of empathy suggest narcissistic traits, driving her to maintain her image of authority at any cost.

Overall, Nurse Ratched's character offers valuable insights into the complexities of caring and control. By understanding these dynamics, we can strive to cultivate true empathy and kindness.

Stay compassionate and become wiser!

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Conceptual Art

Conceptual art emphasizes the idea or concept behind the artwork rather than the physical object itself. In conceptual art, the artist's role may extend beyond traditional methods of creation. Artists may act as curators, organizers, or facilitators of ideas rather than solely as producers of objects. Conceptual artists explore a wide range of themes, including identity, politics, language, and the nature of art itself.

Here are a few more examples of conceptual art and the themes they explore:

Barbara Kruger - "Untitled (I Shop Therefore I Am)" (1987):

Kruger's work often combines text with found imagery to critique consumer culture, gender politics, and social issues. "Untitled (I Shop Therefore I Am)" challenges the viewer to consider the relationship between identity, consumption, and advertising.

Joseph Kosuth - "One and Three Chairs" (1965):

In this installation, Kosuth presents a physical chair, a photograph of the chair, and a dictionary definition of the word "chair" side by side. "One and Three Chairs" challenges the notion of representation and the relationship between language, image, and object.

Ai Weiwei - "Dropping a Han Dynasty Urn" (1995):

In this photographic triptych, Ai Weiwei drops and smashes a 2,000-year-old Han Dynasty urn. The artwork explores themes of iconoclasm, cultural heritage, and the destruction of historical artifacts.

Jenny Holzer - "Truisms" (1977-1979):

Holzer's "Truisms" consist of short, provocative statements printed on posters, billboards, and other public media. These statements challenge societal norms, provoke thought, and raise questions about the nature of truth, power, and identity.

Yoko Ono - "Cut Piece" (1964):

In this performance piece, Yoko Ono sits silently on stage while audience members are invited to approach and cut pieces of her clothing. "Cut Piece" explores themes of vulnerability, power dynamics, and the relationship between the artist and the audience.

If you were a conceptual art creator, what would you create?

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Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera

The 'Unbearable Lightness of Being' by Milan Kundera can spark interesting discussions on various aspects of life, love, and freedom.

Take Thomas, a successful doctor who wants to avoid committing to enjoy as many women as possible. Tereza, who has often endured humiliation from her mother, falls in love with him.

If you've explored Amir Levine and Rachel Heller's 'Attached,' you'll grasp the dynamics that bind Tereza to the relationship despite the looming prospect of lifelong misery. Thomas, on the other hand, is unbothered, engaging in numerous love affairs. He supposedly is a philosopher instead of an emotionally incapable person who requires healing.

And why does our 'free-spirited' long-term commitment-averse guy come back to Tereza when she leaves? It seems like his 'lightness of being' is pretty meaningless without her. He does need to make her life miserable. Why?

The novel presents a poignant exploration of characters stuck in a cycle devoid of personal growth—a truly heartbreaking narrative of wasted lives.

Another interesting topic that emerges in the novel is freedom. Thomas gets into some trouble by expressing his opinions, highlighting the consequences of living in a society where messages are controlled and manipulated. As our modern lives witness an increasing limitation on the freedom to express thoughts, the novel raises crucial reflections on totalitarian regimes and oppressions.

Even though not my favourite, I enjoyed the book and will reread it one day. Any experts on philosophy and psychology to demystify and explain the story?

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The more attention we devote to influencers teaching us how to apply eyelashes and gossip, the more we risk eroding our safety net. Throughout history, impactful voices—such as Chaplin, Einstein, Martin Luther King, Bob Dylan, John Lennon, and others—arose in response to horrifying human rights violations. They were not only professionals in their respective fields but also courageous leaders with values illuminating a path toward a better tomorrow.

Yesterday, as I actively sought prominent figures addressing the distressing events in Gaza, I found a void. The Person of the Year, Taylor Swift, is unlikely to voice concerns. We lack prominent voices—artists, politicians, singers, or religious figures with the heart to speak up. While some probably exist somewhere, their voices are suppressed and their personalities discredited to shape narratives and create illusions that all we care about is how to paint our faces.

The great leaders of the past didn't emerge from a void. As a society, we helped them shape and enhance their thoughts and ideas. However, our current influencers often exemplify consumerism, driven by money and sustained by our economy. Those thriving on transactions aren't the right leaders for us.

Right now, I have the people of Gaza in my mind, but even if you don't care, you really need to wake up. Next time 'someone better' is there to replace you, Kardashians are not coming to your aid. And it's not only through a war that you could be exploited. Think about all the other ways you become voiceless and powerless.

For too long, we've idealized people for the wrong reasons, contributing to our disempowerment and erosion of civil rights.

Take a moment to reconsider your social media habits and how you exercise your civil liberties so your choices inadvertently don't contribute to making us incapable. It's time to prioritize voices that truly matter. You need to support the growth of your new influencers.

Finally, enjoy the wonderful movie Chicago about storybuilding and moneymaking skills.

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Injustice Anywhere is a Threat to Justice Everywhere

Yes, I feel sorry for Palestinians. Every morning I enjoy my cozy bed and delay getting up, my thoughts inevitably turn to children, women, and men who have no refuge. Even if you have no empathy for the people of Gaza, here's why caring about human rights and justice is crucial for us all:

✔️Global Interconnectedness: Our world is interconnected, and the repercussions of injustice extend beyond borders. Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

✔️Erosion of Standards: Assuming you're not among the wealthiest and most influential, accepting human rights abuse and injustice as societal norms sets new standards that will eventually impact us all. The same methods and strategies will be used to deny us our human rights and justice. Think about your struggles, and you'll notice signs there.

✔️Shaping Our Reality: We collectively shape the reality we inhabit. Striving for a world free from horrors and nightmares contributes to a more bearable and enjoyable existence during our brief lives here.

How do the overseas events affect you? 🌍✨

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Welcome to the world of consumerism and Pop Art, which emerged in the 1950s and 60s as a reaction against abstract expressionism, thanks to the influence of artists such as Andy Warhol. What are the products and brands that occupy your thoughts?

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Artist: Jackson Pollock

Artwork: "Autumn Rhythm (Number 30)" (1950)

Style: Abstract Expressionism

Pollock is daring, unconventional, dynamic, curious, and unique. The absence of recognizable objects or figures in most of his art allows for a wide range of interpretations, making it more inclusive and open to individual experiences. Let's dive into the modern art at MoMA.

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Exploring the Depths of Anna Karenina

Even though Leo Tolstoy's Anna Karenina was a great read, Anna herself was a huge disappointment. 

Anna's relationship with her children is troubling. She exhibits a lack of maternal care towards her baby girl, even neglecting basic needs like nourishment. Her thoughts occasionally drift to her son, but even then, she remains the focal point of her own narrative.

Anna often seems to be a creator of her own despair and hopelessness, and she doesn't suffer alone; she crafts hostile environments that ensnare others in her suffering.

Her interactions with Vronsky are marked by extreme demands and passive-aggressive behaviour. Anna seems intent on making Vronsky suffer, expecting him to be subservient to her emotional whims. Everything he says is wrong. Her mind doesn't stop analyzing him, his actions, and words and assigning to everything negative meanings. As soon as her husband steps outside, she imagines the worst and sends him letters to hurt his feelings directly or indirectly. 

Despite being surrounded by people, Anna experiences a sense of isolation, possibly contributing to her mental health challenges.

Anna's impulsive actions and decision-making, especially in her relationships, make me think she is there for drama.

Anna contemplates dying in a way that would cause her partner, Vronsky, to suffer and regret his actions. This is very different from thinking about death but leaving a note for everyone not to worry. Her thinking might suggest that she suffers from Depression with Vengeful Ideation: Her thoughts could be a manifestation of depressive symptoms coupled with a desire for others to share in her emotional pain. Borderline Personality Traits: The intense fear of abandonment and drastic measures to avoid it, coupled with a strong emotional reaction, might align with certain traits associated with borderline personality disorder. Suicidal Ideation: Anna's contemplation of her own death, especially in a way that could affect Vronsky emotionally, might be indicative of suicidal ideation, which is a serious mental health concern.

In essence, Anna's character can be perceived as selfish, often playing the victim to make others suffer and regret. Does her husband realize he is the victim?

Why do men fall in love with her immediately? She is pretty. All the other qualities men assign to her are imaginary. Their admiration doesn't necessarily translate to a clear understanding of her personality and her internal struggles. They love their idea of this beautiful woman.

Interestingly, Tolstoy himself grappled with suicidal thoughts. I believe that, much like the character Levin, Anna represents an aspect of Tolstoy himself. In her tragic end, Tolstoy plays out his thoughts and mourns a profound loss of part of himself.

Through Anna, we learn that people can live close to one another yet fail to truly know or understand each other. We often see what we want to see or perhaps what we are able to see. Anything beyond our knowledge or imagination, good or bad, remains unnoticed. Remember the study about a gorilla no one has noticed?

If this is interesting, let me know, and I will continue writing about other characters and themes in the story. "Anna Karenina" opens up a plethora of discussions. 

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Clash of Superpowers in Georgia’s backyards

I stumbled upon this symbolic photo featuring a random backyard in Georgia. If you pay attention, the image unveils itself as a work of art, with each object symbolizing different world powers and ideologies. Despite the clash of cultures, I hope Georgians will have peace to enjoy their backyard parties with family, friends, and neighbours. Happy Independence Day, Georgia!

photo by @galibertolivier

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