anontalksforyoutolisten

[anontalksforyoutolisten]

A Deep Dive Into Dreams

Table of contents

• Dreams: What Are They?

• Lucid Dreams — To Be In Control

• Dreaming and Spirituality

• Personal Experiences With Dreaming

• TL;DR

Dreams: What Are They?

When we think of dreams, we often picture them as mini, confusing movies—stories with one too many plot holes, bizarre twists, and emotions that feel overwhelmingly real. But what exactly are dreams? What are they beyond the fleeting images and sensations we struggle to recall upon waking?

To answer this, let’s turn to the scientists and researchers who dedicate their lives to uncovering the mysteries of the mind.

The Science of Dreams

Scientifically, a dream is defined as a series of thoughts, images, emotions, and sensations that occur involuntarily during sleep, primarily during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.

Dreaming is the neurocognitive process that generates these experiences, shaped by our memories, emotions, and subconscious thoughts. Research suggests that dreaming plays a role in memory consolidation, emotional processing, and problem-solving, making it far more than just a nighttime distraction.

But beyond this definition, what actually allows us to experience dreams? How do we see, feel, and even move within them—despite being in a state of complete rest?

How We “See” in Dreams

Even with our eyes closed, our brain creates vivid dream imagery through internal visual processing, much like when we imagine or recall memories. This happens because of the visual cortex, particularly in the occipital lobe, which remains active during REM sleep. This activity is what allows us to “see” in dreams, even though no external light or sensory input is reaching our eyes.

However, vision alone isn’t what makes dreams feel so immersive. A dream wouldn’t be a dream without the emotions that come with it—the intensity of joy, fear, sorrow, or even that haunting sense of déjà vu.

Why Dreams Feel So Real—Yet So Strange

The limbic system, which includes the amygdala and hippocampus, is responsible for processing emotions and memories. This system remains highly active during dreams, which is why they can feel overwhelmingly real. The emotions you experience in a dream can be just as intense—if not more intense—than those you feel in waking life.

But despite how real dreams can feel, there’s often something… off about them. This odd, surreal quality can be compared to the Uncanny Valley phenomenon—the eerie feeling people experience when something almost looks real, but not quite. In dreams, everything can seem normal at first glance, yet the moment you focus on details, things start shifting, warping, or making less sense.

This is largely due to the prefrontal cortex (PFC)—the part of the brain responsible for logic and critical thinking. During REM sleep, the PFC becomes less active, which explains why bizarre dream logic often goes unquestioned. But that isn’t the only reason dreams feel strange.

Dreams are shaped by a combination of neurological and cognitive factors, such as:

• Lack of sensory input – In waking life, our brain constructs vision based on light and external stimuli. In dreams, it relies on memory and imagination, leading to distortions.

• Fragmented memory integration – Dreams often merge unrelated memories, creating surreal and inconsistent narratives.

• Neurological differences – Studies show that certain visual processing areas are hyperactive during REM sleep, while logic-based areas (like the PFC) are suppressed, contributing to dream distortions.

In short, dreams are vivid because our brain processes them as if they were real experiences—just without real-world sensory input or logical oversight. This combination results in the bizarre, fluid, and emotionally charged nature of dreams.

How Often Do We Dream?

Believe it or not, we dream multiple times every night, whether we remember it or not. Sleep cycles occur in 90-minute intervals, and each REM cycle contains a dream period. Since a full night of sleep includes 4–6 cycles, we experience 4–6 different dreams per night—sometimes even more!

But how often do we actually remember them?

• 95–99% of dreams are forgotten soon after waking.

• People who wake up during or right after REM sleep are more likely to recall dreams.

• Factors like stress, emotions, sleep quality, and brain activity influence dream recall.

Some people, myself included, remember their dreams more frequently. This has been linked to higher activity in the temporoparietal junction, a brain region responsible for processing both external and internal stimuli.

Where Do We Go From Here?

Now that we understand the science of dreams, we can dive into the more mysterious and interactive aspects—such as lucid dreaming, where the dreamer becomes aware they are dreaming and can even control the experience.

Lucid Dreams — To Be in Control

The idea of lucid dreaming might seem impossible to some. You might even be thinking, “I can barely tell when I’m dreaming—how could I possibly take control of one?”

Well, that’s exactly why we’re here, isn’t it?

Just like before, let’s start by breaking down what lucid dreaming actually is before we dive into the how and why.

What Is Lucid Dreaming?

Lucid dreaming is a phenomenon in which the dreamer becomes aware that they are dreaming while still in the dream state. This awareness can allow varying degrees of control over the characters, narrative, and environment of the dream.

Lucid dreams occur during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep—a term you might recognize from our earlier discussion.

(Good! That means you were paying attention!)

But how does this happen? Lucid dreaming is the result of a combination of neurological and psychological factors working together. Let’s break them down.

The Science Behind Lucid Dreaming

Neurological Factors

• Prefrontal Cortex Activation: Normally, the prefrontal cortex (PFC)—the part of the brain responsible for logic, self-awareness, and decision-making—is less active during REM sleep, which is why most dreams feel so strange and chaotic. However, in lucid dreaming, this region shows heightened activity, allowing for increased self-awareness and control within the dream.

• Acetylcholine Levels: This neurotransmitter plays a key role in REM sleep and dream vividness. Higher levels of acetylcholine are associated with greater dream clarity and awareness, making lucid dreaming more likely.

Psychological Factors

• Reality Testing: This technique involves routinely questioning your reality throughout the day. By asking yourself, “Am I dreaming?” and performing small checks (like looking at your hands or rereading text), you train your brain to do the same while dreaming—potentially triggering lucidity.

• Prospective Memory: This is the ability to remember to do things in the future. If you set the intention to recognize when you’re dreaming before going to sleep, you increase your chances of achieving lucidity.

How to Induce Lucid Dreaming

Now that we understand what lucid dreaming is and why it happens, some of you might be eager to try it for yourselves!

Below are some methods that can help you increase your chances of lucid dreaming. However, before you attempt it, I recommend reading my personal experiences with dreaming and lucid dreaming. If you have trouble retaining information or just want to jump in, I’ll include the warning and everything within the TL;DR.

1. Reality Checks

• Throughout the day, perform small reality checks to test whether you’re dreaming.

Common methods include:

• Looking at your hands (in dreams, they often appear distorted or blurry).

• Rereading text or looking at a clock—text and numbers tend to change unpredictably in dreams.

• Trying to push a finger through your palm (in dreams, this often works).

2. Keep a Dream Journal

• Write down your dreams immediately upon waking.

• This improves dream recall and makes you more aware of dream patterns, which can help trigger lucidity.

3. Mnemonic Induction of Lucid Dreams (MILD)

• Before falling asleep, repeat a phrase like “I will know I am dreaming” to yourself.

• This helps set the intention to become aware in your dreams.

4. Wake-Back-to-Bed (WBTB)

• Wake up after 5–6 hours of sleep, stay awake for 20–30 minutes, then go back to bed.

• This increases the chances of entering REM sleep with heightened awareness.

5. Wake-Initiated Lucid Dreaming (WILD)

• This advanced technique involves staying conscious while your body falls asleep.

• Lie still and focus on your awareness as you transition into sleep—if done successfully, this can lead directly into a lucid dream.

Now, being who I am, I can’t just leave this discussion at the scientific explanation of dreams and lucid dreaming.

So, let’s take this one step further—what if lucid dreaming is more than just a brain function? What if there’s a spiritual or metaphysical element to it?

Dreaming and Spirituality

As a deeply spiritual person, I can’t help but wonder: do our dreams have a connection to something greater? If you’ve ever had a dream that felt like more than just your subconscious sorting through memories—something prophetic, mystical, or otherworldly—you’re not alone. The belief that dreams hold spiritual significance is far more common than you might think.

Since I practice paganism, it only feels right to start by exploring how dreams are viewed through a pagan lens.

Dreams in Paganism

In many pagan traditions, dreams are seen as more than just the mind’s nightly wanderings—they are messages, omens, or gateways to spiritual insight. Here are some ways dreams play a role in pagan spiritual practices:

1. Connection to the Divine

• Many pagans believe dreams can serve as a bridge between the dreamer and deities, spirits, or ancestors. A dream might carry guidance, warnings, or wisdom from the divine.

2. Shamanic Practices

• In shamanic traditions (often considered part of broader pagan practices), dreams are essential to spiritual journeys. Shamans may enter dream states to traverse other realms, seek knowledge, or perform healing. This is sometimes called “dreamwalking” or “soul travel.”

3. Dream Divination

• Dreams are frequently used for divination in paganism. The imagery, symbols, and emotions within a dream can be interpreted for insight into the future, personal challenges, or one’s spiritual path. Many practitioners keep dream journals to analyze recurring themes and signs.

4. Rituals and Magic

• Some pagans incorporate dreamwork into magical practices. A ritual before sleep might be performed to induce a prophetic dream or receive answers from a deity. Herbs, crystals, or sigils may be used to enhance dream clarity.

5. Seasonal and Lunar Influence

• Some traditions align dreamwork with the phases of the moon or seasonal changes. For example, dreams around Samhain (when the veil between worlds is thinnest) are believed to hold particularly strong spiritual significance.

6. Healing and Self-Discovery

• Dreams can be a tool for emotional and spiritual healing. They may reveal hidden fears, unresolved conflicts, or deep-seated desires. By working with dreams intentionally, individuals can facilitate personal transformation.

But paganism isn’t the only tradition that sees dreams as spiritually meaningful.

Dreams in Other Spiritual and Ancient Traditions

1. Indigenous Beliefs

• Many Indigenous cultures, including various Native American tribes, view dreams as a link between the physical and spiritual realms. Dreams may carry messages from ancestors, spirits, or nature itself, often interpreted by shamans or elders.

2. Ancient Egypt

• The Egyptians believed dreams were divine communications, sometimes carrying prophetic insights. They even had a “Dream Book” cataloging different dream symbols and their meanings.

3. Greek and Roman Traditions

• In ancient Greece and Rome, dreams were considered valuable sources of prophecy and guidance. Temples dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing, allowed individuals to “incubate” dreams, seeking divine intervention for health and wisdom.

Now, let’s move beyond historical beliefs and explore a theory I’ve developed while reflecting on the intersection of neuroscience and spirituality.

The Third Eye and the TPJ: A Possible Connection

The temporoparietal junction (TPJ) is a region of the brain responsible for functions like perspective-taking, sensory integration, and self-other distinction. It’s also linked to out-of-body experiences—something many spiritual traditions describe as an aspect of mystical awakening.

The third eye, often associated with the pineal gland, is considered a gateway to higher consciousness in many spiritual philosophies. It’s believed to enhance intuition, perception, and awareness beyond the physical world.

Could the TPJ and the third eye be connected?

Here’s how they might relate:

1. Integration of Experiences

• The TPJ helps process sensory and cognitive experiences. Similarly, the third eye is said to integrate spiritual insights and deeper truths.

2. Out-of-Body Sensations

• Since TPJ activation is linked to out-of-body experiences, it could explain why some people who open their third eye report feelings of astral projection or expanded awareness.

3. Heightened Perception

• The third eye is associated with increased intuition and vivid perception. If the TPJ plays a role in sensory processing during dreams, its activity could contribute to the clarity and depth of lucid or prophetic dreams.

4. Spiritual Awakening

• Many believe opening the third eye leads to heightened awareness. If the TPJ is more active during sleep and altered states, it might help facilitate the deep spiritual experiences often reported in lucid dreams.

While this is still speculative, it’s an intriguing way to blend neuroscience with spirituality. It suggests that different parts of the brain may contribute to the profound mystical experiences humans have reported for millennia.

Lucid Dreaming and the Third Eye

We’ve already established that lucid dreaming is the ability to become aware within a dream. But how does this relate to the third eye?

• Heightened Awareness: Just as opening the third eye is said to enhance spiritual awareness, lucid dreaming allows you to consciously navigate your subconscious.

• Vivid Dreaming: Those who practice third eye meditation often report incredibly vivid, meaningful dreams—similar to what lucid dreamers experience.

• Exploring Beyond the Physical Realm: Lucid dreaming enables exploration of deeper layers of the subconscious, much like how third eye activation is believed to allow access to higher planes of consciousness.

I can personally attest to experiencing all of the above. In the next section, I’ll take you deeper into my personal experiences with lucid dreaming, the third eye, and what I’ve discovered through my own dreamwork.

Personal Experiences With Dreaming

I’ve always had a knack for remembering dreams—some vivid, some strange, and some that, in hindsight, feel eerily significant. There are the nonsense dreams, of course, but as I sit here reflecting, I start to see certain ones as more than just fleeting nighttime visions—like the dream I had about my grandfather.

I was young at the time, still living in my childhood home. My grandparents’ house sat on an acre of land, and they had a beautiful wooden deck that I’d always adored. In my dream, my grandfather slipped on that deck, landing on his back and sliding down the stairs, stopping just before his head could hit the concrete walkway at the bottom. Looking back on it now, I can’t remember if this happened before or after the dream, but I do know that, at that same age, I once fell down those stairs headfirst—only to stop just before hitting the concrete myself.

Coincidence? Maybe. But that’s the thing about dreams. Sometimes they feel like more than just dreams.

Lucid Dreaming and Waking Awareness

Most of my dreams follow a storyline—crafted by my subconscious, unfolding in real time. But even within the dream world, I’ve always had a strong sense of time. I’m a creature of routine in waking life; I hate feeling like my day is wasted, and somehow, that habit has carried over into my dreams.

I remember one instance where I was caught up in a dream, simply going along with it, when I suddenly blurted out, “Oh shit, it must be 7 o’clock by now! I should really wake up!” Sure enough, when I opened my eyes, my clock read 7:00 AM on the dot. I had forgotten to set my alarms that night—if I hadn’t woken up on my own, my whole morning would’ve been thrown off.

This was around the time I started opening my third eye, and with that, my lucid dreaming skills began to sharpen. I started recognizing the tells—like the time I climbed a wooden staircase to a waterslide, only to find myself back at the bottom the moment I reached the top. That was when I knew: I’m dreaming.

From that point on, I learned how to take control. I figured out how to extend my time in dreams, how to manipulate them, and how to wake myself up when needed. The hardest part was staying in a dream once I became aware of it; my vision would start to fade, and the sounds of the real world would creep in. But I found a trick—if I focused on a single object, like my hands, my feet, or even a phone, I could ground myself in the dream and prolong the experience.

The Warning of Lucid Dreaming

Lucid dreaming is thrilling, but it comes with its own set of rules. One of the most important?

Never tell a dream figure that they aren’t real.

I warned my ex about this when they started lucid dreaming, but they didn’t listen. They called out a dream character, stating outright that they weren’t real, and the dream turned violent almost immediately. They lost all control, and it became a nightmare.

I’ve had my own close calls, too. In one dream, I was searching for someone in a neighborhood when I suddenly realized that no one around me was real. The thought alone nearly destabilized the dream, and before anything could happen, I forced myself awake. I wasn’t going to take that risk. Lucid dreaming should feel safe—but the moment you start pulling at the seams of the dream world, things can unravel fast.

A Divine Wake-Up Call

Dreams have always been more than just subconscious ramblings to me—they’ve been a bridge to something greater. I’ve had dreams that felt like warnings, moments of clarity, and even what I can only describe as divine intervention.

For years, I’ve worshiped Aphrodite, but there was a time when my depression got the best of me. I abandoned her altar, letting it gather dust. Then one night, I had a dream.

A ship rocked violently on raging seas, thunder cracking overhead. The dream was blurry, chaotic—except for one thing: a pair of furious eyes burning into me. The name Aphrodite surfaced in my mind before I even registered what I was seeing. I woke up with a sinking feeling in my stomach.

I didn’t need to be told twice. That same day, I cleaned her altar, offered her gifts, and apologized. To this day, I still get chills when I think about that dream.

The Mystery of Dreams

Dreams are a bridge—between the conscious and subconscious, the scientific and the spiritual. But lately, I’ve been wondering just how far that bridge extends.

Stress has dulled my dream recall, and I’ve been out of practice.

But one morning, I woke up with no memory of dreaming at all—just a single phrase ringing in my mind:

“And this is how you wake up.”

The words were clear, deliberate. But who was I teaching? And why did my subconscious choose to say that before my eyes even opened? The moment it registered, I jolted upright, caught in a spiral of questions.

That’s a mystery for another day.

Final Thoughts

Dreams, science, spirituality—they’ve all fascinated me for as long as I can remember. It only felt right to put all my thoughts into words, and if you made it to the end of this discussion piece, I truly appreciate it.

If you read every word, kudos to you. If you skipped around and only caught bits and pieces or even skipped to the TL;DR, that’s okay too! Just knowing that you took the time to engage with my thoughts means the world to me.

Thank you for reading, and I hope to write more in the future.

Until next time,

Anon 🍃

TL;DR: A Deep Dive Into Dreams

What Are Dreams?

Dreams are vivid mental experiences that occur during sleep, mostly in the REM stage. They involve thoughts, emotions, and sensations shaped by our memories and subconscious. Scientists suggest they help with memory processing, emotional regulation, and problem-solving.

Why Do Dreams Feel Real Yet Strange?

• The visual cortex generates images despite closed eyes.

• The limbic system (responsible for emotions) is highly active, making dreams feel intense.

• The prefrontal cortex, which handles logic, is less active—explaining bizarre dream logic.

• Dreams merge unrelated memories and lack sensory input, leading to distortions.

How Often Do We Dream?

• We dream 4–6 times per night, but 95–99% are forgotten.

• Waking up during REM sleep improves dream recall.

• Some people naturally remember dreams better due to higher brain activity in the temporoparietal junction (TPJ).

Lucid Dreaming: Awareness & Control

Lucid dreaming happens when a person realizes they’re dreaming and may control their dream environment. It’s linked to increased prefrontal cortex activity and higher acetylcholine levels, which enhance dream clarity.

How to Induce Lucid Dreams (With Warnings!)

Before attempting, read about potential side effects (e.g., sleep paralysis, altered perception).

1. Reality Checks – Frequently ask, “Am I dreaming?” and perform tests (e.g., looking at your hands, rereading text).

2. Dream Journal – Writing dreams upon waking improves recall and awareness.

3. MILD Technique – Repeat “I will realize I’m dreaming” before sleeping.

4. WBTB Method – Wake up after 5–6 hours, stay awake briefly, then return to sleep.

5. WILD Technique (Advanced) – Stay mentally awake as your body falls asleep to enter a dream directly.

Dreams & Spirituality

Many cultures see dreams as spiritual messages. In paganism, dreams are used for:

• Divine guidance (from deities/spirits).

• Dream divination (interpreting symbols).

• Shamanic journeys (traveling to other realms).

Other cultures, from Indigenous tribes to Ancient Egyptians & Greeks, also viewed dreams as prophetic.

The Third Eye & Dreaming

The TPJ (linked to self-awareness & sensory integration) may relate to the third eye (spiritual perception). Both are tied to:

• Out-of-body sensations (astral projection).

• Vivid and meaningful dreams (lucid & prophetic dreaming).

• Heightened awareness of subconscious and spiritual realms.

Personal Experience

The author shares their deep connection to dreams, recalling vivid and possibly prophetic experiences. They explore the intersection of neuroscience and spirituality in dreamwork.

Final Thoughts

Dreams are more than just the brain processing memories—they shape emotions, problem-solving, and potentially connect us to something greater. Whether through science or spirituality, understanding dreams can deepen self-awareness and personal growth.

[anontalksforyoutolisten]

Current Events

Table of Contents

• Introduction

• The LGBTQ Community

• Women’s Rights & Abortion Access

• Freedom of Religion

• Disability Rights

• On ICE & Immigration

• Our President

• Closing Thoughts

• TL;DR

• Links

Introduction

No think pieces today. No trigger warnings. Just hard truths, because America is hard to stomach right now.

I love deep thinking, philosophy, and discussing the things that have always fascinated me, but I can’t bring myself to write about any of that right now. Not when everything around me is burning.

I need to write about this. The state of the world. The perspective of someone who exists on the lower end of the totem pole in this so-called “great nation.”

Even if this is anonymous, anyone who knows me well enough will recognize my voice.

I won’t pretend I’m the most qualified person to speak on everything. I’m a white woman. I can’t fully understand the struggles of POC, and I won’t take up space that should belong to them. But if you’re reading this, please—listen to them. Seek out POC voices. Support their work. Do whatever you can to help.

As for myself, I’m here to speak on what I do know—what I’ve seen, what I’ve lived, what I fear is coming.

First, I wanted to talk about our president—but that will come later. Before I address the man I hate most in this world, I need to share my own experiences. Some of you might relate. Some of you might roll your eyes and tell me to “suck it up.” But before you do, remember this:

This is my reality.

Every single person on this earth has their own version of reality, shaped by their experiences. This is mine.

The LGBTQ Community

It’s no secret that I’m a part of this community—I’ve mentioned before that I’m a lesbian. I’ve been part of this community since middle school, though I didn’t always know exactly where I fit.

It took years to understand myself. Years of frustration, confusion, and pain. But I had the freedom to explore, to question, to grow. Without that, I would still be miserable, stuck in an identity that was never mine, hurting myself over and over just to fit into a box that someone else built for me.

People grow and change. That’s what we’re meant to do.

But now, that freedom is being stripped away.

I’ve seen the headlines. Trans people arrested. Lesbians set on fire. Suicide rates skyrocketing.

And why?

Because of the hateful laws this joke of a president keeps pushing.

I don’t care where you stand politically—if you can’t see what’s happening, you’re either blind or willfully ignorant.

This country is brewing nothing but hate.

I know it’s bad when even I, a woman who lives in a relatively safe area, hesitate before going outside. I think about whether today will be the day I get shot for being queer. If I feel that fear, what about the rest of our community?

How do people justify this? How do they look at someone who just wants to love—who just wants to exist—and decide that they deserve to suffer?

There is so much happiness to be found in diversity. And yet, all they want to do is destroy it.

Why must there be so much hate?

I will never understand it—how anyone can justify hating someone simply for existing. How do they convince themselves that their way of life is the only way?

Women’s Rights & Abortion Access

Ever since Trump’s first term, this has been a constant battle. And when his Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, we lost so much more than just the right to an abortion.

Let’s be clear:

Abortion isn’t murder. It’s healthcare.

If that makes you uncomfortable, good. Because this is the brutal reality we have to face:

If access to abortion is taken away, what happens next?

1 — The Dangers of Child Pregnancy

(Ages 10-12)

• Historically, in areas with poor medical care, young mothers have an alarmingly high mortality rate due to complications like obstructed labor, preeclampsia, and postpartum hemorrhage.

• Girls under 15 are five times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than women in their 20s.

• Babies born to extremely young mothers also face higher neonatal mortality rates and severe birth complications.

2 — The Reality of Miscarriages

• If a miscarriage isn’t properly managed, it can cause life-threatening complications like sepsis or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), which leads to fatal internal bleeding.

• Some states already have laws preventing doctors from intervening, even when the fetus has no heartbeat. Women are being left to die over ideological cruelty.

3 — The Cost of Forcing Birth

• Over 391,000 children are in the U.S. foster care system.

• Schools have become war zones—327 school shootings in the 2021-22 school year alone.

• Child neglect is rampant, linked to poverty, domestic violence, and mental health crises.

• As of 2024, raising a child costs $23,000 per year—a total of $414,000 from birth to age 18.

And yet, these same people who scream about “protecting life” will refuse to lift a single finger to support the children they force into the world.

4—The Irony of the “Heartbeat Law”

• A fetus at six weeks doesn’t have a developed brain, thoughts, or consciousness—it’s a cluster of cells emitting electrical pulses.

• Brain death is legal death. If an adult loses all brain function, we remove life support. Yet we’re forced to sustain pregnancies where brain activity doesn’t even exist yet.

How is it legal to take someone off life support, but not to provide lifesaving reproductive healthcare?

Because this was never about “saving lives.” It was about control.

And this is only the beginning—abortion is only the first step. If this administration keeps chipping away at our rights, how long until we lose everything we’ve fought for?

Freedom of Religion

Trump’s latest move? A task force dedicated to eliminating so-called “anti-Christian bias.”

Let’s be clear: Christianity was never under threat.

• 63% of the U.S. population identifies as Christian.

• No one is outlawing churches.

• No one is banning Bibles.

This isn’t about “protecting religion.” It’s about favoring one religion over all others.

I am a Pagan. I do not hate Christianity, but I refuse to accept a government that places one faith above the rest. If this continues, religious freedom will become a distant memory.

Disability Rights

This one is personal. My mother is disabled. She cannot work. She is in pain every single day, relying on government assistance just to survive.

And I am terrified that Trump will take that away.

• His administration previously proposed cuts that would reduce disability benefits by 38% to 66%.

• He attempted to slash SNAP benefits by 25-30%.

• Tightened eligibility rules could leave countless people without the aid they desperately need.

If you rely on disability benefits, pay attention. We need to prepare for the worst.

My family has already started homesteading and researching alternative ways to survive. If you want resources on homesteading or natural remedies, let me know.

On ICE & Immigration

This is how the Holocaust started.

Mass deportations. Detention camps. Families ripped apart. Sound familiar?

• Trump’s administration is conducting large-scale raids.

• Plans are in place for a detention facility at Guantánamo Bay to hold 30,000 migrants.

History is repeating itself, and people are letting it happen.

Our President

How is this man still in office?

This election was stolen—ballots burned, votes suppressed. A felon, rapist, and Nazi is sitting in the White House, and our government let it happen.

We are not united. We are more divided than ever.

And if you still stand with him after everything, then you are complicit in evil.

Closing Thoughts

This is the reality we are living in. For some, it is life or death.

I won’t say I don’t have privilege—I do. And I wish everyone had the same privileges, regardless of race, gender, or faith.

I want a better world. A safer world. A world without hate.

It may take time, but this hell will end.

Until then—

Stay strong. Stay smart. Stay alive.

We will get through this.

TL;DR

America is in crisis, and ignoring it won’t make it go away.

• LGBTQ+ Rights: Hate crimes and anti-trans laws are rising. People are suffering and dying just for existing.

• Abortion & Women’s Rights: Overturning Roe v. Wade endangers lives. Pregnancy is deadly for young girls, miscarriages are criminalized, and forced births fuel poverty and neglect. It’s about control, not life.

• Religious Freedom: Christianity isn’t under attack—but other religions are. Government favoritism threatens true religious freedom.

• Disability Rights: Trump’s policies aim to cut disability and food assistance, leaving vulnerable people, like the author’s mother, at risk of losing everything.

• Immigration & ICE: Mass deportations and family separations echo horrifying historical events.

• Trump & the Future: A corrupt, fascist leader has stolen power, and the country is crumbling.

This is life or death. Stay aware, stay strong, and don’t stop fighting.

Links

As a white woman, I can only speak to my own experiences, but I refuse to let this conversation be one-sided. The struggles of POC, especially Black, Indigenous, and immigrant communities, are deeply tied to the fight for justice. Their voices matter, and they deserve to be heard. If you want to support and uplift them, here are some resources to listen, learn, and take action.

General Support & Awareness

• The Movement for Black Lives – Coalition of Black-led organizations advocating for racial justice.

• Color of Change – A nonprofit fighting racial injustice in media, politics, and corporate policies.

• NAACP – Civil rights organization dedicated to justice for Black Americans.

Indigenous Rights & Activism

• Indigenous Environmental Network – Advocates for environmental justice and Indigenous land protection.

• Native American Rights Fund – Legal organization defending Native American rights.

Immigrant & Refugee Support

• RAICES – Legal aid and advocacy for immigrants and refugees.

• United We Dream – The largest immigrant youth-led network in the U.S.

LGBTQ+ POC Support

• National Black Justice Coalition – Advocates for Black LGBTQ+ rights.

• The Okra Project – Provides meals and support for Black trans people.

Mental Health & Crisis Support

• Therapy for Black Girls – Mental health resources for Black women.

• BEAM (Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective) – Supports mental health in Black communities.

Education & Financial Support

• The Loveland Foundation – Funds therapy for Black women and girls.

• Native Forward Scholars Fund – Financial aid for Indigenous students.

[anontalksforyoutolisten]

The Mind and the Body

Before you dive in, I want to issue a gentle warning. This piece ventures into deep, existential thinking—territory that can sometimes evoke discomfort or unease. If you’re not in the best mental space right now, I recommend holding off on this discussion. Your well-being is important, and it’s always okay to step back to care for yourself.

Trigger Warnings: Mentions of death, suicide.

Now, let’s begin.

I’ve always had a habit of falling into deep thought, endlessly cycling through questions. Some of them may seem trivial or absurd, but they all stem from a genuine curiosity, a desire to understand this strange, magnificent world. Other thoughts, though, plunge me into an overwhelming awareness of life itself.

“How did language and writing develop?”

“With every breath I take, someone is born and someone dies.”

This awareness can be paralyzing—the sense that time is constantly passing, that life and death are intertwined and inescapable. It’s the realization that at every moment, we are surrounded by both beginnings and endings.

“What are other people thinking?”

“How do their minds work?”

“Do they perceive the world the same way I do?”

It’s not just that others have thoughts—it’s that those thoughts are entirely distinct from our own. We take for granted that we each experience the world through a unique lens, but the mind is a vast and mysterious place. Your brain is lighting up with neurons as you read this, perhaps hearing your own internal voice recite these words. But what about everyone else? Their minds are just as intricate, yet completely different.

The human brain is an enigma—a marvel of evolution. Think about serial killers, for example. Their minds are wired to follow horrifying patterns. But why? What triggers that desire for destruction within them? How can someone detach from empathy, from the sanctity of life, for their own pleasure? What part of their brain lights up with the thrill of causing pain?

It’s a chilling thought: that some people find joy in the suffering of others. It’s a question that leads me down paths of self-awareness and true crime fascination alike.

But let’s pivot to an even more profound question: How did everything begin? We often turn to the Big Bang Theory, but that only scratches the surface. How did life—this pulsating, self-aware organism—first take shape? What ignited the spark that led to the world we inhabit today?

Sometimes I find myself overwhelmed by the fact that we, humans, seem to be the only species burdened by this level of self-awareness. Animals exist in a more blissful state, free from the existential weight we carry. Or are they? I wonder if they know more than we give them credit for.

We, on the other hand, are nothing more than neurons piloting a flesh vessel—a “meat suit,” as some call it. All our thoughts, our personalities, our sense of self are dictated by this three-pound organ in our skulls.

It reminds me of a meme: a conversation between God and an angel about the creation of humans. “You messed up a perfectly good monkey, that’s what you did. Look at it. It’s got anxiety.”

It’s funny but also profound. In giving us intelligence, perhaps something was lost. A once-simple being, now laden with stress, worry, and endless introspection.

I even learned that we aren’t the only creatures capable of suicide. According to research on animal behavior, “Animal suicide is when an animal intentionally ends its own life through its actions. It implies higher cognitive capacities, such as a concept of self, death, and future intention.” It seems intelligence can be just as dangerous as ignorance.

That’s a sobering thought, isn’t it? With all this awareness, are we ever truly safe?

Here’s the truth: safety is a relative concept. These thoughts—about life, death, the mind, and the body—have brewed in my mind for years. They can be unsettling, but they’re just that: thoughts. In reality, you are safe. You’re likely reading this from the comfort of your home or surrounded by people who love you. You are safe. You are grounded. You are loved.

If today’s discussion has been heavy for you, I encourage you to reach out for support. The world can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone.

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Languages: English, Spanish

Hours: Available 24/7

988lifeline.org

I invite you to share your thoughts—whether it’s a theory of your own or a question. This space is for dialogue and discovery. I don’t claim to be an expert; I’m just deeply curious about the universe we inhabit. Let’s learn together.

Animal Suicide Wiki

Last Note: I also want to explore how certain behaviors and traits we exhibit as humans mirror those found in other animal kingdoms—a topic that’s been discussed many times before, but one I think deserves further reflection.

[anontalksforyoutolisten]

Spirituality - A “High” Discussion

Table of Contents:

⁃ Introduction

⁃ Reincarnation

⁃ Spirits and Demons

⁃ Witchcraft and Tarot

⁃ Spirituality Beyond

Introduction

Let me start by saying these are just my musings, and yes, I’m high as I write this. There’s something about the calm focus that marijuana provides—it helps me unravel thoughts I’ve always wanted to explore.

Spirituality is a subject that has fascinated me for as long as I can remember. It’s discussed across the world in different forms, all trying to touch on something vast, something beyond our immediate reality. I’ve always believed there’s more to existence than what we can see. Call it delusion, but to me, it’s a concept worth exploring deeply.

There are countless ways spirituality weaves itself into our lives, and today, I want to dive into a few of them. Whether you believe or not, these discussions are for anyone who’s curious about what might lie beyond the material world.

Reincarnation

Reincarnation is defined as “the rebirth of a soul in a new body,” but to me, it’s more than that. The term “old soul” doesn’t just refer to wisdom—it refers to a depth you can see in someone’s eyes. Some souls, I believe, have been here before.

I’m often told I’m an old soul, though I don’t remember my past lives. But I’ve always felt like I’ve been here before. Even as a baby, my parents said I made eye contact immediately, as if I already knew what this world had to offer. Contrast that with new souls—there’s pure wonder in their gaze, an eagerness to experience life for the first time.

What if the challenges we face in life are lessons for our souls? Some lives are filled with struggle, while others breeze through without much difficulty. I’ve noticed that troubled individuals often carry the weight of an older soul, as though they’ve lived through many lifetimes of hardship.

There’s even a theory that birthmarks and phobias are remnants of how we died in previous lives. It’s fascinating, isn’t it? There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to these beliefs, and that’s the beauty of it. I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories—whether you agree or not!

Spirits and Demons

Are spirits and demons real? Absolutely. Spirits are all around us, whether we acknowledge them or not. I’ve experienced them firsthand, and there’s physical evidence out there too, for those willing to look.

My earliest memory of seeing spirits was at the age of four. I could see spirit orbs and point them out to my parents, who eventually started taking photos of the spots I indicated. Sure enough, there were orbs in the pictures, even though they were invisible to the naked eye.

Once, I woke up in the middle of the night craving a snack and saw a full apparition in the hallway. It wasn’t a dream—I remember running to my parents, sobbing in fear.

People say demon possession is exaggerated by Hollywood, but I believe it’s real. There’s so much negativity in the world that I think certain events can stir up malevolent energy. But talking about demons is almost taboo—maybe because of fear, maybe because of disbelief. What do you think?

Witchcraft and Tarot

The word “witchcraft” tends to freak people out. They imagine evil rituals or warty witches flying on broomsticks. But what if I told you witchcraft is real—just not in the way you think?

Witchcraft, at its core, is simply intention manifested. You don’t need a cauldron or a black cat. Every time you give yourself a pep talk, you’re manifesting a good outcome. Every time you make a wish before blowing on a dandelion, that’s witchcraft in its purest form.

Does it always work? No. Sometimes, the universe has other plans. But practicing witchcraft is about aligning with those universal forces and understanding when something isn’t meant to be.

Then, there’s tarot. I own a deck myself, and the accuracy is sometimes eerie. I’ll pull cards seemingly at random, and somehow they always match my situation. It’s fascinating to me, and I’d love to know if anyone else has had similar experiences—or if you think it’s all coincidence.

Spirituality Beyond

At the heart of it, spirituality is about recognizing that there’s something greater than us. It’s the belief that there’s more to being human than just our sensory experiences, that we’re part of something cosmic or divine.

This opens the door to discussions far beyond Earthly spirituality—like the belief in extraterrestrial life. It’s almost impossible to think we’re the only planet with life in the vastness of the universe. Life and death are part of an endless cycle, and to think we’re the only ones participating in that cycle seems narrow-minded to me.

Closing

I needed a space to jot down these thoughts, to sort through my personal experiences and ponder the world beyond. But this is an open-ended discussion, and I want to hear what you think.

I’m often lost in deep thoughts, and while some of the topics I think about might give others an existential crisis, I’ve managed to hold on to my sanity (thankfully). I know how to separate reality from belief, theory, and thought. I’ve always been curious more than anything—intelligence might be overrated, but curiosity? That’s where the magic happens.

Feel free to comment with your own experiences or questions. Let’s explore this vast universe together.

Thank you for reading.