#-with people's ability to think critically. to problem solve. to think for themselves at all.

[transkojiro]

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[thewriteadviceforwriters]

50 Character Personality Traits + Meanings (For writers, worldbuilders, and artists) Part 1

Adventurous - Enjoys trying new experiences and exploring the unknown.

Ambitious - Driven to succeed and achieve their goals.

Analytical - Tends to think critically and examine things in-depth.

Artistic - Highly creative and expresses themselves through artistic mediums.

Assertive - Confident in expressing their thoughts and feelings.

Caring - Shows compassion and concern for the well-being of others.

Charismatic - Has a natural charm and appeal that draws people in.

Clever - Able to come up with creative solutions and make astute observations.

Compassionate - Displays empathy and a desire to help those in need.

Confident - Believes in their own abilities and is self-assured.

Conscientious - Reliable, responsible, and attentive to detail.

Curious - Eager to learn new things and explore the world around them.

Cynical - Tends to be skeptical and distrustful of others' motives.

Dependable - Can be counted on to follow through on their commitments.

Determined - Persistent in pursuing their goals and overcoming challenges.

Diplomatic - Skilled at navigating social situations and resolving conflicts.

Eccentric - Displays unconventional or unusual behaviors and interests.

Empathetic - Able to understand and share the feelings of others.

Ethical - Guided by a strong moral compass and a sense of right and wrong.

Extraverted - Enjoys being around people and draws energy from social interactions.

Flexible - Adaptable to changes and open to trying new approaches.

Forgiving - Willing to let go of past hurts and give people second chances.

Friendly - Approachable and enjoys building positive relationships with others.

Grounded - Practical, down-to-earth, and focused on the present.

Hardworking - Diligent and dedicated in their efforts to achieve their goals.

Honest - Values truthfulness and integrity in their words and actions.

Idealistic - Driven by a vision of how the world should be and a desire to make a difference.

Imaginative - Possesses a rich inner world and creative problem-solving abilities.

Independent - Prefers to think and act for themselves without relying on others.

Indecisive - Struggles with making decisions and often second-guesses themselves.

Introverted - Finds energy and fulfillment in solitary activities and introspection.

Jealous - Experiences feelings of resentment or insecurity towards others.

Kind - Gentle, considerate, and thoughtful in their treatment of others.

Leaders - Able to inspire and guide others towards a common goal.

Logical - Approaches problems and decisions through a rational, analytical lens.

Materialistic - Highly values the acquisition of possessions and wealth.

Organized - Maintains order and efficiency in their personal and professional life.

Perfectionistic - Strives for flawlessness and can be overly critical of themselves and others.

Pessimistic - Tends to focus on the negative aspects of situations and expect the worst.

Resilient - Able to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to changes.

Risk-taker - Willing to take chances and step outside of their comfort zone.

Sarcastic - Uses irony and witty remarks to convey their thoughts and feelings.

Sensitive - Deeply affected by the emotions and experiences of themselves and others.

Stubborn - Unwilling to change their mind or compromise on their beliefs and opinions.

Suspicious - Inclined to doubt the motives and intentions of others.

Thoughtful - Considerate of the impact their words and actions have on others.

Timid - Shy, reserved, and hesitant to take risks or assert themselves.

Trustworthy - Reliable, honest, and worthy of confidence.

Unpredictable - Displays an element of surprise and spontaneity in their behavior.

Witty - Possesses a quick, clever, and humorous way of expressing themselves.

Hey fellow writers! I'm super excited to share that I've just launched a Tumblr community. I'm inviting all of you to join my community. All you have to do is fill out this Google form, and I'll personally send you an invitation to join the Write Right Society on Tumblr! Can't wait to see your posts!

[bitchy-craft]

What People Admire About You | Pick A Pile

Hello and welcome to this Pick A Pile! In here you'll find out what people admire about you. I hope you guys enjoy and find this useful. Do make sure to leave comments down below on your experience! I do want to remind you all that this is a General Pick A Pile which means this is for a lot of people; therefore keep what resonates and leave what doesn't.

Masterlist > Questions

Pick A Pile!

Pile 1:

In this pile, it becomes evident that people admire your intelligence, wisdom, and problem-solving skills. They recognize the depth of your knowledge and your ability to think critically. Your analytical approach and insightful perspective make you a valuable resource for others. People appreciate your ability to offer sound advice and guidance, especially in difficult situations. Your mental agility and sharp intellect set you apart and make you an admirable figure.

You possess an intuitive nature that allows you to tap into deep wisdom. Your insights are valued, and others recognize your perceptive qualities. Your inclination towards introspection and reflection is admired, as it enables you to find answers within yourself and share your wisdom with those around you. Your clarity of thought and ability to cut through confusion are highly regarded. Your balanced emotional intelligence is respected, as you handle emotions with grace and compassion.

Pile 2:

This pile reveals that people admire your kindness, compassion, and empathetic nature. They see you as a source of comfort and support in their lives. Your ability to understand and connect with others on an emotional level is highly valued. People appreciate your genuine willingness to listen without judgment and provide a safe space for them to express themselves. Your warm and nurturing presence makes you an admirable individual.

Your nurturing and caring nature is recognized and admired by others. They see how you create a supportive and loving environment for those around you. Your capacity to cultivate meaningful connections and foster harmonious relationships is highly regarded. People admire how you bring people together and create a sense of unity. Your genuine kindness and the emotional support you offer are deeply appreciated. Your ability to understand and validate the emotions of others without judgment is respected.

Pile 3:

This pile suggests that people admire your strength, resilience, and determination. They recognize your ability to overcome challenges and adversity with grace and perseverance. Your unwavering resolve and tenacity in pursuing your goals inspire and motivate others. People see you as a role model for resilience and courage.

Your strong willpower and the way you navigate through obstacles to achieve your objectives are admired. Your determination and focus are evident, and others respect your ability to stay on track. Your inner strength and ability to remain calm in the face of adversity are deeply admired. Your resilience and capacity to bounce back from difficult situations inspire those around you. Your empathy and willingness to support others during tough times are highly regarded. Your compassion and generosity are seen as remarkable traits. Your fiery passion and self-confidence leave a lasting impact on others, who recognize your leadership qualities and ability to take charge.

[spitblaze]

the recent "ai" llm bullshit makes it hard to talk about stories that use the concept of characters who are ai in the sci-fi sense (and the MANY ways in which this manifests and what it can mean!) because ig people take shit too literal?? or want a cheap joke? so they discard all the intent symbolism and implication. in most of these cases ai is a plot device/concept used for really specific reasons, usually with its own rules per story and just pasting llm's/gen ai as the interpretation loses the point in many cases.

Honestly LLMs have made talking about AI in literally ANY context besides that impossible because much like the blockchain before it and 'gluten-free' before THAT it's just a marketing thing. 'This song's vocals were completed using AI' and it's a very standard audio cleanup algorithm. 'The art in this game was made using AI' and it's animations using automatic tweening systems that have been in use for decades. 'This game uses AI in its programming' and it's a very different use of the term to refer to the programming of NPCs and enemies in a game, a term that's been in use basically since we were able to program those things. It's a goddamn nightmare to have a conversation about any of this because sometimes when someone says 'this company put AI in their program' they might mean 'Adobe decided to put an LLM Image Generator into photoshop for some reason' or they might mean 'A marketer said that this program was 'AI-powered' and the AI in question is a very normal algorithm'.

But like back to your point- the fact that the recent stuff HAS been called 'artificial intelligence' in the first place really unnecessarily muddies the waters in science fiction terms, too. For a very long time we've had a strong understanding of what AI means in sci-fi terms. Machines capable of thought on a human scale, capable of truly learning and comprehending and problem solving. Defining 'intelligence' is kind of a fool's errand but we'll save the anthropocentrism rant for another day- the point is that they're supposed to be self-sufficient learning automata. And often they're utilized in order to explore something about what it means to be human, or alive, or thinking, any number of things. Often there's rules. Asimov's laws of robotics are cited endlessly and offer fascinating starting points. Does sedating and putting a human into deep sleep to prevent them from harming themselves, as all humans inevitably do, follow the spirit of the First Law? Is that ethical? Is it worth living your life passively in order to minimize risk? Is the third law truly more important than the first? Why is the life of a potentially malicious human inherently more important than the existence of a machine, just as capable of thoughts and feelings as the human? Who are we to judge which has more value?

And along comes LLMs- impressive tech to be sure, but a far cry from true artificial intelligence. Cleverbot with access to Google is not exactly what most of us would define as anywhere in the vicinity of 'thinking and feeling' but 'AI' catches a lot more attention than 'Language Learning Model' or 'Neural Network' (though i would argue that 'neural net' while not always accurate at least sounds a lot cooler). Suddenly, this narrative tool we've had for upwards of a century has a new meaning. Older work gets re-evaluated in contexts it was never made for, and new projects have a much more critical eye as people expect them to tackle a new and prescient issue- and if it fails to, may draw their own conclusions from. Nothing new, per se- the pandemic, for example, lead to a lot of people re-evaluating disease as a plot device in media much differently than before, for example. But in terms of evaluation of literary devices go...LLMs feel like they've really done a number on people's ability to read beyond the lines. They see self-autonomous machines doing something bad, and all other themes go out the window in favor of the One Currently Relevant Topic.

Again, this is hardly a new issue. I distinctly remember just several years ago during the airing of Hands Off Eizouken when an errant shiny spot on a helicopter turned the kanji for water (水) into the kanji for ice (氷), and an errant English translation ran with it and turned it into I.C.E.. A scene about a girl feeling trapped in her role by her family and society- an issue commonly explored in Japanese media- is stripped of its meaning and turned into a strange commentary on a contemporaneous American issue by someone who took one look, didn't think harder about it, and decided that's what it was about. Annoying for sure, but I'm at least less inclined to blame the Immigration and Customs Enforcement for existing causing the issue than I am a translator failing to employ proper reading comprehension. I don't like ICE at all but I at least recognize that the issue here is with the interpreter. The same goes here- LLMs are Fucking Annoying but I recognize that the issue here, as usual, is a lack of willingness to engage with the source material beyond the surface level.

[dailyanarchistposts]

J.1.1 Why are social struggles important?

Social struggle is an expression of the class struggle, namely the struggle of working class people against their exploitation, oppression and alienation and for their liberty from capitalist and state. It is what happens when one group of people have hierarchical power over another: where there is oppression, there is resistance and where there is resistance to authority you will see anarchy in action. For this reason anarchists are in favour of, and are involved within, social struggles. Ultimately they are a sign of individuals asserting their autonomy and disgust at an unfair system. As Howard Zinn stresses:

“Both the source and the solution of our civil liberties problems are in the situations of every day: where we live, where we work, where we go to school, where we spend most of our hours. Our actual freedom is not determined by the Constitution or by [the Supreme] Court, but by the power the policeman has over us in the street or that of the local judge behind him; by the authority of our employers [if we are working]; by the power of teachers, principals, university president, and boards of trustees if we are students; by the welfare bureaucracy if we are poor [or unemployed]; by prison guards if we are in jail; by landlords if we are tenants; by the medical profession or hospital administration if we are physically or mentally ill. “Freedom and justice are local things, at hand, immediate. They are determined by power and money, whose authority over our daily lives is much less ambiguous than decisions of the Supreme Court. Whatever claim we … can make to liberty on the national level … on the local level we live at different times in different feudal fiefdoms where our subordination is clear.” [Failure to Quit, pp. 53–4]

These realities of wealth and power will remain unshaken unless counter-forces appear on the very ground our liberty is restricted — on the street, in workplaces, at home, at school, in hospitals and so on. For the “only limit to the oppression of government is the power with which people show themselves capable of opposing it.” [Malatesta, Errico Malatesta: His Life and Ideas, p. 196]

Social struggles for improvements are also important indications of the spirit of revolt and of people supporting each other in the continual assertion of their (and our) freedom. They show people standing up for what they consider right and just, building alternative organisations, creating their own solutions to their problems — and are a slap in the face of all the paternal authorities which dare govern us. Hence their importance to anarchists and all people interested in extending freedom.

In addition, social struggle helps break people from their hierarchical conditioning. Anarchists view people not as fixed objects to be classified and labelled, but as human beings engaged in making their own lives. We live, love, think, feel, hope, dream, and can change ourselves, our environment and social relationships. Social struggle is the way this is done collectively. Such struggle promotes attributes within people which are crushed by hierarchy (attributes such as imagination, organisational skills, self-assertion, self-management, critical thought, self-confidence and so on) as people come up against practical problems in their struggles and have to solve them themselves. This builds self-confidence and an awareness of individual and collective power. By seeing that their boss, the state and so on are against them they begin to realise that they live in a class ridden, hierarchical society that depends upon their submission to work. As such, social struggle is a politicising experience.

Struggle allows those involved to develop their abilities for self-rule through practice and so begins the process by which individuals assert their ability to control their own lives and to participate in social life directly. These are all key elements of anarchism and are required for an anarchist society to work (“Self-management of the struggle comes first, then comes self-management of work and society” [Alfredo Bonnano, “Self-Management”, pp. 35–37, Anarchy: A Journal of Desire Armed, no. 48, p. 35]). So self-activity is a key factor in self-liberation, self-education and the creating of anarchists. In a nutshell, people learn in struggle:

“In our opinion all action which is directed toward the destruction of economic and political oppression, which serves to raise the moral and intellectual level of the people; which gives them an awareness of their individual rights and their power, and persuades them themselves to act on their own behalf … brings us closer to our ends and is therefore a good thing. On the other hand all activity which tends to preserve the present state of affairs, that tends to sacrifice man against his will for the triumph of a principle, is bad because it is a denial of our ends. [Malatesta, Op. Cit., p. 69]

A confident working class is an essential factor in making successful and libertarian improvements within the current system and, ultimately, in making a revolution. Without that self-confidence people tend to just follow “leaders” and we end up changing rulers rather than changing society. So part of our job as anarchists is to encourage people to fight for whatever small reforms are possible at present, to improve our/their conditions, to give people confidence in their ability to start taking control of their lives, and to point out that there is a limit to whatever (sometimes temporary) gains capitalism will or can concede. Hence the need for a revolutionary change.

Only this can ensure that anarchist ideas are the most popular ones for if we think a movement is, all things considered, a positive or progressive one then we should not abstain but should seek to popularise anarchist ideas and strategies within it. In this way we create “schools of anarchy” within the current system and lay the foundations of something better. Revolutionary tendencies and movements, in other words, must create the organisations that contain, in embryo, the society of the future (see section H.1.6). These organisations, in turn, further the progress of radical change by providing social spaces for the transformation of individuals (via the use of direct action, practising self-management and solidarity, and so on). Therefore, social struggle aids the creation of a free society by accustoming people to govern themselves within self-managed organisations and empowering the (officially) disempowered via the use of direct action and mutual aid.

Hence the importance of social (or class) struggle for anarchists (which, we may add, goes on all the time and is a two-sided affair). Social struggle is the means of breaking the normality of capitalist and statist life, a means of developing the awareness for social change and the means of making life better under the current system. The moment that people refuse to bow to authority, its days are numbered. Social struggle indicates that some of the oppressed see that by using their power of disobedience they can challenge, perhaps eventually end, hierarchical power.

Ultimately, anarchy is not just something you believe in, it is not a cool label you affix to yourself, it is something you do. You participate. If you stop doing it, anarchy crumbles. Social struggle is the means by which we ensure that anarchy becomes stronger and grows.

[sensualnoiree]

astro notes: daily transits 6/3

Monday, 6/3, Mercury's ingress into Gemini signifies a significant shift in the collective energy, as Mercury, the planet of communication, intellect, and travel, moves into one of its home signs. This transit emphasizes the qualities of curiosity, adaptability, and quick thinking, enhancing our ability to communicate, learn, and connect with others effectively.

Mercury in Gemini Mercury is the ruling planet of Gemini, which means it is particularly strong and influential when it transits this sign. Gemini, an air sign, is associated with communication, information exchange, and intellectual pursuits. It is characterized by versatility, social interaction, and a love for learning and exploring various ideas.

Key Themes of Mercury in Gemini

Enhanced Communication With Mercury in Gemini, the collective focus shifts to communication in all its forms. This period is marked by an increase in conversations, debates, and the sharing of ideas. People may feel more inclined to reach out, connect with others, and engage in social activities. Communication becomes faster, more fluid, and more dynamic, making it an excellent time for networking, negotiations, and collaborations.

Intellectual Curiosity Gemini is known for its insatiable curiosity and desire for knowledge. During this transit, there is a heightened interest in learning and exploring new topics. People may feel drawn to studying new subjects, reading, writing, and engaging in intellectual discussions. This is a favorable time for academic pursuits, attending workshops or lectures, and expanding one’s knowledge base.

Adaptability and Flexibility One of Gemini’s key strengths is its adaptability. With Mercury in Gemini, there is a greater capacity to adapt to changing circumstances and think on one’s feet. This transit encourages flexibility in thinking and problem-solving, allowing for innovative solutions and creative approaches to challenges. It is a time to embrace change and be open to new possibilities.

Multitasking and Versatility Mercury in Gemini enhances the ability to multitask and handle multiple projects simultaneously. This period is characterized by a fast-paced environment where quick thinking and versatility are advantageous. People may find themselves juggling various tasks and responsibilities, thriving in dynamic and stimulating settings.

Collective Implications

Increased Social Interaction The ingress of Mercury into Gemini is likely to boost social interactions and connectivity. People may feel more sociable and willing to engage with others, both in person and online. This is an excellent time for social gatherings, networking events, and community activities that foster connections and the exchange of ideas.

Flourishing Communication Technologies Given Gemini’s association with communication, this transit may see advancements and increased usage of communication technologies. There could be a surge in social media activity, the launch of new communication platforms, or improvements in existing technologies. Innovations that facilitate easier and faster communication are likely to thrive.

Spread of Information Mercury in Gemini supports the rapid spread of information. News, ideas, and trends can disseminate quickly during this period. It is important to stay informed and critically evaluate the information being consumed, as the speed of communication can sometimes lead to the spread of misinformation or superficial knowledge.

Emphasis on Education and Learning This transit places a strong emphasis on education and learning. Schools, universities, and educational programs may experience increased activity and interest. People are encouraged to pursue their intellectual passions, enroll in courses, and take advantage of opportunities for personal and professional development.

Working with This Energy To make the most of Mercury’s transit through Gemini, consider the following approaches:

Engage in Active Communication: Reach out to friends, family, colleagues, and new acquaintances. Engage in conversations, share your ideas, and be open to listening to others. This is a time to strengthen your social networks and build new connections.

Pursue Learning Opportunities: Take advantage of the heightened intellectual curiosity to explore new subjects and expand your knowledge. Enroll in courses, attend seminars, or engage in self-study to satisfy your thirst for learning.

Stay Adaptable and Flexible: Embrace change and be open to new experiences. Use this time to experiment with different approaches and solutions, and be willing to pivot as needed.

Utilize Technology: Leverage communication technologies to stay connected and informed. Explore new platforms, tools, and apps that can enhance your ability to communicate and share information.

Prioritize Multitasking Wisely: While the ability to multitask is enhanced, be mindful of spreading yourself too thin. Prioritize your tasks and manage your time effectively to avoid burnout.

follow for more astro insights like this and support me over on yt @quenysefields or instagram sensualnoiree

[astrosagga2]

Effects of Rahu in the 6th Astrological House

In Vedic astrology, Rahu, also known as the North Node of the Moon, is often regarded as a shadow planet. Its position in an astrological chart can significantly impact an individual's life. When Rahu is positioned in the 6th house, its influence can manifest in various ways, both positively and negatively. The 6th house governs aspects such as health, enemies, debts, daily routines, and service, and Rahu's presence in this house brings a unique set of challenges and opportunities.

Health and Wellness

Rahu in the 6th house can have a considerable impact on an individual's health. This placement often indicates a tendency towards unconventional health issues or sudden, unexplained illnesses. Individuals may find themselves dealing with chronic conditions that are difficult to diagnose or treat. However, Rahu also brings resilience and a strong ability to overcome health challenges. People with this placement often develop an interest in alternative medicine or unconventional healing methods, which can sometimes lead to significant health improvements.

Enemies and Competitors

The 6th house is also associated with enemies and competitors. Rahu's placement here can create powerful adversaries or situations where the individual feels constantly challenged by others. This can lead to intense conflicts, but it also bestows the person with the ability to handle and overcome opposition with tact and strategy. Rahu in the 6th house can make individuals highly competitive, resourceful, and adept at dealing with adversaries. They often emerge victorious in legal battles and disputes, thanks to their cunning and strategic approach.

Debts and Financial Challenges

Financial matters are another critical area influenced by the 6th house. Rahu's presence here can lead to sudden financial ups and downs. Individuals might experience periods of significant debt or unexpected financial burdens. However, Rahu also provides the ability to find unconventional solutions to financial problems. These individuals may explore alternative income sources or innovative ways to manage their finances. With time, they often learn valuable lessons about financial management and become adept at navigating economic challenges.

Work and Daily Routine

Rahu in the 6th house can influence an individual's work life and daily routines. It often indicates a non-traditional career path or a job that involves working in unusual or unconventional environments. These individuals may find themselves drawn to careers in research, investigation, or fields that involve dealing with hidden or obscure information. They are likely to excel in jobs that require strategic thinking and problem-solving. However, they may also experience instability in their work life, with frequent changes in job roles or work environments.

Service and Helping Others

The 6th house is also associated with service and helping others. Rahu's placement here can indicate a strong drive to serve and support others, often in unconventional ways. These individuals may be drawn to volunteer work, social activism, or careers in the helping professions. They have a unique ability to connect with and understand people from all walks of life, making them effective in roles that involve service to others.

Conclusion

Rahu in the 6th house is a complex and multifaceted placement that brings both challenges and opportunities. It can lead to health issues, financial ups and downs, and intense competition, but it also provides resilience, strategic thinking, and a strong drive to overcome obstacles. Individuals with this placement often find unconventional paths to success and develop unique approaches to dealing with life's challenges. Understanding the effects of Rahu in the 6th house can help individuals navigate these influences and harness the strengths that this placement offers.

[binarystargames]

Valiant Horizon post-itchfund-launch devlog #1: Diceless, Roll for Magnitude, and Roll for Success

This post is about the various mechanical choices made in Valiant Horizon at a very high level. I group these into three categories: Diceless mechanics (stuff that works), Roll for Magnitude mechanics (stuff that works but you roll to see how much), and Roll for Success mechanics (stuff that works if a roll goes your way).

Diceless

The simplest kind of mechanic. This is what Assets, Exhausting Assets, and Burdens are:

You take an action and it works.

If you didn't expend a resource, you add or amplify a complication on that action.

The complications here are Burdens.

The resources here are Assets or Determination (which can either restore the use of an Asset or negate a Burden).

You can also reduce your access to a resource to achieve a larger effect.

This is Exhausting Assets.

The vibe I wanted to achieve wasn't "do you solve problems, overcome obstacles, etc." so much as "how do you do it". We are going to assume, generally, that the protagonists will get to the other side of whatever problem they encounter. The question then becomes: how do they win? What do they prioritize with asset use? What are they willing to let fall by the wayside or go imperfectly to get there? What resources are they willing to pull from the combat side to make it work? Are they willing to overextend themselves to achieve a victory? It becomes a question of resource management and long-term risk rather than short-term probability-based risk.

It's also a matter of spotlight management and diversity of outcomes. If your Windmagus knows they only get one use of wind magic per session, they know they can't solve every problem with that. But maybe they have something in their background that will suffice, or there's a good chance someone else will have something else too that might work. Or if they think whipping up a tornado will solve the problem better, they won't have easy access to their wind magic in the future, but it might be worth it. (Given that the penalty for Exhausting Assets is reset when you gain a level, this also encourages players to go a little more nuts with it near the end of a level - which should probably be something somewhat climactic anyway, so good!)

This is not how it's going to work in every Total//Effect game. Liminal Void, for instance, has more traditional "skill" rolls with Assets being granted by skills or by tools, granting things like advantage or stepping up numerical outputs. Get you a system that does both!

Roll for Magnitude

Now, this isn't to say it's a diceless game! Far from it. You roll a lot in Valiant Horizon. But usually you're rolling for magnitude and not success.

Generally I like the idea of failure-less combat. I'm sure plenty of people love the tension of whiffing attack after attack but it's not my bag in almost any circumstance. I'm fully on board with removing roll-to-hit. One criticism I have of purely diceless systems, though, is that they can lead to very predictable situations, especially when diceless abilities are tied to set effects/powers. (It's what spawned my quarterbacking posts.) Now, of course a GM/Narrator/facilitator/etc can always introduce new things to the scene to spice things up - that's why there's a "the GM does something cool" thing in LUMEN, for example, and why I kept that rule in APOCALYPSE FRAME. But that's already an intensive role, and requiring them to keep things interesting is sometimes a big ask.

As a middle ground, combat in Total//Effect still involves rolls for variable effect for set powers. They all get better at higher Totals (3 dice added), and most of them key something off of Effects (individual die values). This means that something always happens, no matter the roll value - depending on the ability, it may be extremely small, but it's something. Correspondingly, even pretty middling abilities (like basic enemy abilities) can sometimes spike up hard on triple 6's! (This happened literally the first Total//Effect session I ever ran. Incredible moment.)

If you're wondering what probabilities look like for it, I wrote a big piece on it here. Back in October, so parts of it are outdated! I can hardly believe it's been going this long. The math's still good though.

This is also used for Fame rolls for Reputation: Fame decays by a die roll at semi-regular intervals. (This is actually an off-shoot of two separate Total//Effect systems that are in play in Liminal Void, Rolls for Progress and Threats, which are Good Clock and Bad Clock respectively. Having something that conditionally ticks up but at a non-constant rate adds another level of tension to an already tense thing!)

Roll for Success

There is exactly one thing that can still fail on account of a roll: Calling for Aid from Relationships. The tension I want in Valiant Horizon shouldn't come from "does my cool combat stuff work" or "does the cool thing that my hero gave me". It comes from "can I rely on my friends". This is partially because it's a huge benefit! It's a 1/session/relationship thing where you can tag someone in out of turn and outside the action economy (if it goes well). But it's partially because I want that tension: do you, does your character, think they can reliably call on their friends for help?

At low levels of relationship, the answer is...sometimes, but not really. At higher levels, you've gotten a better understanding of how to ask: you can reliably ask for lesser things, but grander things are still dodgy. And at the highest level, you can always rely on them: it'll never fail as such. (Sometimes you'll get a mixed result still.)

---

Dice, rolling, and such are tools in the toolbox. Knowing when you want to use them, how you want to use them, and why goes a long way.

Next devlog, I’ll get into the various classes and start showing off more of the incredible art Charlotte made!

[llatimeria]

this is an interesting interpretation of accomodations for mental illness and at first glance it makes a certain amount of sense but the line between "providing access" and "assuring success" must be pretty blurry for some people?? like for some disabilities it's obviously cut and dry (blind student? give them an audibook instead of a print book. how much they understand that audibook is left up to their critical thinking ability, but they couldn't do the assignment at all if the reading material was only provided in print), but for mental illness that's... way trickier right??

Consider a really bright student who has PTSD. A traumatic event in their past makes them feel overwhelmingly anxious when they're too far from a possible escape route. if they're sat in the furthest back corner of the room, they can't do shit, their brain's just gone. they cannot do the assignment At All, so they're accomodated with preferential seating.

the wrench here is that if they're sitting somewhere on the edge of the desks in such a way that it would be easy for them to get to the door, but it's still not that physically close to them, they might be able to kind of pay attention to the class. they're still nervous, which makes it hard for them to focus on and retain the information, but they can still hold themselves together long enough to put their pen to paper and hack up a mediocre but passing grade, like a C- to a B. that could be a mentally healthy but less bright student's peak performance. The PTSD student can do the assignment and have access the information, but to an outsider (such as a teacher or another student), they might just be getting mediocre grades because they don't really care and aren't listening, just like every other kid on earth does sometimes. but also, on a really good day, if they try really, really hard, the PTSD student might manage an B+ or A-, even though their accomodations are still sub-optimal.

However, if the PTSD student is sitting as close as possible to the door, their anxiety is negligible and they can properly focus on the class material, so they get solid A's on pretty much every assignment they do while sitting there.

would sitting them by the door every time be "giving them access" or just "assuring their success" if you already knew that they were an exemplary student when you were drawing up the seating arrangements??

like, i'd obviously give PTSD student the seat they perform best in because I've been there and I have love in my heart (and probably everyone following me agrees) but I could see... a particular species of teachers not always liking that very much?? like obviously sitting in the chair closest to the door doesn't automatically guarantee success for every student, it's not like PTSD student is getting the answer key to every test and assignment.

but this Particular Species Of Teacher could still read the PTSD student's lack of success in the edge seats the same way they read a healthy student's regular amount of disinterest in the material, which could Cause Problems for the PTSD student who could be really genuinely trying very hard, but also might legitimately not be "trying hard enough", capable of achieving good grades if they put their mind to it even without perfect accomodations.

Or is this one of those problems that'd actually be best solved by just getting rid of (or politely educating) every teacher who thinks like this and it's not a moral dillema at all lol

[pjkuan]

The Power of Innovation and Design Thinking in Startups

In the world of startups, success is a rare and coveted prize, with only a small percentage making it to the top. One key reason behind the failure of startups, cited as the top cause at 42 percent, is a lack of genuine need for the product they develop. Startups must ask themselves a critical question: Are they creating something that people truly need? Innovation, the act of creating something new and disruptive, plays a pivotal role in addressing this question. Innovative products have the potential to influence and change human behavior, and they often emerge as solutions to real-world problems. However, innovation is not limited to a select few; it can be harnessed by anyone willing to embark on a journey of empathy, understanding, and problem-solving.

Design thinking, a five-stage process encompassing empathy, definition, ideation, prototyping, and testing, is a powerful tool for startups seeking to innovate. It allows entrepreneurs to bridge the gap between functionality and desire, ensuring that their products and services meet the real needs and desires of their target audience. Human-centered design is at the heart of this process, focusing on the needs of people, the possibilities of technology, and the requirements for success. Ultimately, the success of a startup hinges on its ability to align with the three lenses of innovation: desirability, feasibility, and viability. By adopting a mindset of creative confidence, learning from failure, and optimism, startups can unlock the potential to transform not only their own fortunes but also the lives of those they aim to serve. In essence, innovation and design thinking are not exclusive domains; they are tools available to all who dare to solve the right problems and make a meaningful impact on society.

[pragatidubey]

Unleashing Potential through Advancing Workplace Diversity and Inclusion

“When we listen and celebrate what is both common and different, we become wiser, more inclusive, and better as an organization.”

         Workplace diversity and inclusion have emerged as key components for promoting creativity, driving organisational success, and establishing a peaceful and productive work environment in today's linked and globalised society. Forward-thinking organisations are increasingly embracing diversity and inclusion as essential pillars of their business strategy, seeing the benefits of varied ideas, experiences, and origins. This article examines the importance of promoting workplace diversity and inclusion, emphasising the benefits it provides to individuals, organisations, and society as a whole.             

         The enhancement of creativity and invention is one of the key benefits of workplace diversity. When people from different backgrounds join together, they contribute a variety of distinct viewpoints, ideas, and problem-solving techniques. This broad reservoir of information and experiences generates creativity and an environment conducive to innovation. Diverse teams are more likely to produce unique ideas, challenge traditional thinking, and solve complicated issues in novel ways.           

           A varied workforce reflects the variety of customers served by organisations. Inclusion and diversity in the workplace allow organisations to better understand and respond to a wide range of consumers' requirements, preferences, and expectations. Organisations get insights into distinct cultural subtleties, customer behaviours, and market trends by accepting multiple views. This knowledge enables businesses to create goods, services, and marketing tactics that appeal to a larger client group, resulting in enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty.                               

               Inclusive and diverse workplaces foster a sense of belonging, where individuals feel valued, respected, and heard. This inclusive culture not only attracts top talent but also enhances employee engagement and retention. When employees feel included and can bring their authentic selves to work, they are more likely to be motivated, committed, and loyal to their organizations. Moreover, diverse workplaces offer opportunities for personal and professional growth, leading to higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates.

             Diverse teams contribute to better decision-making processes by considering multiple perspectives, challenging biases, and promoting critical thinking. When individuals from different backgrounds collaborate, they bring a wide range of skills, knowledge, and experiences to the table. This diversity of thought helps in identifying potential blind spots, mitigating groupthink, and arriving at more informed and effective decisions. The inclusion of diverse voices in problem-solving processes leads to comprehensive and well-rounded solutions.

             Advancing workplace diversity and inclusion not only benefits organizations but also contributes to social cohesion and equality. By creating equal opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds, organizations break down barriers and foster a more inclusive society. When people see themselves represented and respected in the workplace, it sends a powerful message of equality and acceptance. This, in turn, encourages social progress and drives positive change beyond organizational boundaries.

         Unleashing people' and organisations' full potential necessitates a continuous commitment to developing workplace diversity and inclusion. Diversity fosters not only creativity and financial success, but also a culture of respect, empathy, and equality. Organizations that promote diversity and inclusion create conditions in which all individuals may thrive, contribute their unique abilities, and attain their full potential. We can genuinely harness the power of human potential and build a brighter and more prosperous future for everybody by creating diverse and inclusive workplaces.

[derinthescarletpescatarian]

When people say they enjoy things, they usually mean one of two things. The first is that these things are fun; that is, they satisfy immediate emotional needs or desires for pleasure. Candy Crush is fun, for people who are into that sort of thing; waterslides are fun, watching TV is fun. Fun, in the way I'm defining it for this post, is the party food of pleasure; immediately and usually temporarily satisfying, and after that, mostly satisfying only as a happy memory (although some of these activities, like watching a TV show, can generate further opportunities for pleasure down the line like daydreaming, discussion, and making fanart). Like party food, this kind of fun is a good thing to have, and someone who doesn't get enough of it is at high risk of stress-related health concerns. Also burnout. A lack of fun is a major contributor to burnout.

The second kind of pleasure that most people talk about is rewarding activity. The lack of rewarding activity in one's life is a major contributor to depression. It creates a sense of purposelessness and worthlessness and generates a low attention span, sapping the ability to feel long-term motivation or pleasure. People usually try to pick themselves up with the first kind of fun, which is a band-aid but not a very sticky one; the lack of rewarding activity grows and festers over time. Rewarding pleasure involves working on something long-term that feels worthwhile. There are usually also spots of fun (or you wouldn't have gotten into the activity enough for it to become rewarding), but there also tends to be long slogs that aren't that fun. Nevertheless, when people report on doing said activity, they will speak about it with great enjoyment and remember it being enjoyable and claim they like it. (I like being a writer. Writing can sometimes be boring as shit.) (Look into Csíkszentmihályi's work on experience sampling and flow states for more info on this, it is FASCINATING.)

In Reality is Broken, Jane McGonigal sums up what she thinks are the most important contributing factors to rewarding activity. These are not the only factors, but I agree that they're a good baseline of the critical ones. I'm going to paraphrase them using different language. The four big contributors are:

Satisfying work. This is the vaguest one because different people find different things satisfying. Basically, the task itself should feel productive, and you should not feel bad about doing it to the point where it causes you distress. Satisfying work involves clear goals with actionable steps and a clear product, preferably something that you can see, touch or use. A clean house, a new high score, a freshly built table, a happy child.

Mastery. Rewarding pleasure is often something that you can get better at. There are things to learn, practice, improve. Improving your ability to solve tricky code problems, getting better at painting landscapes, figuring out fun new strategies in Magic: The Gathering, being able to build computers better or faster or cheaper. Mastery does not require becoming the best at something (although some people enjoy that specifically also), merely seeing progress in yourself and being able to take pride int he fact that you are better than you were.

Social connection. Rewarding pleasure often involves social or community connection. A long-term social group that discusses fan theories of their favourite show. Your weekly tabletop rpg. Teaching a room full of kids who to make leather belts. Working at a small bookshop and making small talk with all the tourists. Some people find social activity to be fun in the 'immediate pleasure' kind of way, some don't, but it is a critical factor in mental health and in the long-term... rewardingness (?)... of a hobby. Animals can also partially fill this niche, but be warned, they are far, far less effective than people. Your cat might be able to stop you from committing suicide today. You cat alone will not make your life satisfying.

Contribution. Humans are community animals and have a need to be something larger than ourselves or, more specifically to be of service to something larger than ourselves. Looking after kids, cooking big meals for others, creating art or physical products for others. Teaching the next generation how to read. Serving your God. Saving a species of small fish from extinction. Volunteering at your local charity shop or soup kitchen. Being a member of a crowd to reach the Guinness World Record for "most people fit into a storage crate". Making useful tutorial videos, being an entertainer, joining your local queer support group or political organisation. Humans fucking love to be part of something bigger than their own brain and they fucking love to help people.

The world is full of rewarding activities, and not all of them rate high in all four categories. The woman working in the charity shop warehouse and chatting with her coworkers isn't necessarily all that interested in mastery of her job (although I've worked in these places and some people do take pride in learning to be as efficient as possible), the musical hermit training to become the best violinist in the world might not be all that interested in social connection or how the audience actually feels about him. You might have noticed that I've listed hobbies, jobs, and non-employed but important life work (volunteering and childrearing) as possible rewarding activities; you can find rewarding activities everywhere. (In fact the lack of rewarding pleasure in our work lives is a very serious problem that companies keep trying to condescendingly band-aid over. The late David Graeber had a lot to say about this and I highly recommend his work, particularly Bullshit Jobs, which is a book specifically discussing the lack of above points 1 and 4 (satisfying work and sense of contribution) in so many modern workplaces and its distressing psychological ramifications). Rewarding activities are not 'fun' all the time; in fact, Csíkszentmihályi's work found that many of them are quite unfun most of the time. They do, however, create long term pleasure, and are emotionally and psychologically critical.

One final point: research shows that computer stuff counts less. This isn't a 'hurr durr edison was a witch get off your damn computers and get a real job' point; plenty of people do most of their rewarding activity on computers, because the supply cost is so low (most of us already own some kind of computer) and it's so much easier to find an existing community. But it does, psychologically speaking, count less; your brain isn't very good at seeing computers stuff as as 'real', on a primitive sensory level, as things you can touch with your hands or people that are right in front of you. Your massive community of fellow fans on the internet are less effective at filling your social needs than the crochet club at your local library, even if you like the people on the internet much more. It doesn't have to be everything, but ideally you should have at least one physical meatspace social club and at least one physical meatspace hobby, craft, or volunteer job. (They can be the same thing. You can volunteer at a soup kitchen for both.) They don't have to be the most important thing -- I care way more about my writing (electronic) than my crochet (meatspace) and I do the writing a lot more -- but the meatspace thing should exist, if you can manage it.

I think people get mixed up a lot about what is fun and what is rewarding. These are two very different kinds of pleasure. You need to be able to tell them apart because if you don't have a balanced diet of both then it will fuck you up, and I mean that in a "known cause of persistent clinical depression" kind of way.

[unchronicles]

Finland’s Secret – Where Learning Feels Like Freedom

In a world where education is often shaped by standardized tests, rigid timetables, and mounting pressure, one country dares to chart a different course—Finland. Quietly but confidently, this Nordic nation has built an education system that continues to draw global admiration. But what makes it so exceptional?

The answer lies not in competition, but in compassion. Not in pressure, but in purpose. Finland has reimagined education as a space where learning is rooted in joy, freedom, and equity. In this chapter, we explore the core principles of the Finnish model—and why it matters now more than ever.

Learning with Joy, Not Fear

In Finland, learning begins with wonder, not worry. Children do not start formal schooling until the age of seven, and even then, the focus is on nurturing curiosity rather than drilling facts. Classrooms are designed to be calm, welcoming spaces where students feel safe to ask questions, take risks, and explore ideas.

The emphasis is not on finishing first, but on understanding deeply. Instead of memorizing textbook answers, students are encouraged to think critically, solve real-world problems, and express themselves creatively. School, in Finland, is a place to grow—not just academically, but emotionally and socially.

Teachers as Leaders of Change

At the heart of the Finnish system are its teachers—respected professionals, not overburdened instructors. Becoming a teacher in Finland is no small feat; it requires a master’s degree and a deep commitment to pedagogy. Once in the classroom, teachers are trusted with autonomy to design their curriculum and evaluate students in ways that suit individual needs.

This trust fosters innovation. Teachers act as mentors and guides, adapting their approach to how each student learns best. Rather than following a rigid script, they respond with empathy and creativity. In this model, teaching is not just a job—it is a mission of transformation.

Less Is More

Unlike traditional systems overwhelmed by long hours and excessive assignments, Finnish schools embrace simplicity. School days are shorter. Homework is minimal. Breaks are frequent and valued.

This rhythm allows students to rest, reflect, and reconnect—with nature, family, and themselves. Far from falling behind, research shows that this balanced approach leads to better concentration, improved mental health, and greater enthusiasm for learning. The lesson is clear: more pressure does not mean more progress.

Equality Over Competition

In Finland, education is a right—not a race. Every child, regardless of socioeconomic status or ability, receives equal support and opportunity. There are no elite institutions or private school hierarchies. Every school is expected—and equipped—to be excellent.

This commitment to equity shapes a culture of inclusion. Students learn not only academic skills, but also values of fairness, empathy, and cooperation. In a world that often rewards competition, Finland champions community.

Learning for Life

Ultimately, the goal of Finnish education is not just to produce top scores, but to prepare students for meaningful lives. The curriculum emphasizes life skills, emotional intelligence, environmental responsibility, and active citizenship.

Education, in this context, is not an endpoint—it is a lifelong journey. One that equips young people not only for work, but for wisdom. Not just for careers, but for character.

A Model Worth Following

As we envision the future of education in our own communities, Finland offers a compelling example. It reminds us that learning should never be reduced to stress and survival. Instead, it can be a celebration—of curiosity, of kindness, and of human potential.

In the Finnish classroom, freedom is not the absence of structure, but the presence of trust. And perhaps that is the most powerful lesson of all.

(Dr Ravi Kumar L P, UN Designate)

[ggo-sinon]

my hot take is that a lot of trans people, esp white trans ppl, hide behind oppression to excuse that theyre shitbags. Its not the majority, but it is a problem within our community. "Everyone in my friend group left me and idk why :(" could be because theyre trans, could be because they sexually harrass everyone around them and refuse to see 'no' as a valid answer to make them stop. "Why do people keep thinking I'm scary" is it because shes trans, or because she threatened to kill me and waved a knife around when I accidentally said they. "My roommates are kicking me out" is it because hes trans or because he doesnt clean and actively tries to sow discord between other housemates?

i think its because being trans takes a LOT of introspection, and most people do that then use it as a jumping off point to be more critical of the world around them. however, i believe a small number see their ability to introspect tired after the undertaking, then convince themselves that they've "solved it" and that they must be in the right, because they're an introspective person. After all, they came out as trans, right?

My bigger issue is how many people look at the small group of assholes and go "I will believe them at face value 😁"

[aconsultancy]

Improving Personality With Co-curricular Activities at MIS International School

One of the abilities for increasing problem-solving and critical thinking skills is student interaction. Students’ participation in the classroom enhances their thinking capacity, raises fresh doubts, and most significantly, improves their learning power. Therefore, solid communication skills are essential for academic achievement, starting with effective communication.

Schools allow students to work in groups to enhance their communication abilities. Student involvement in the classroom promotes effective teaching in a variety of ways, as well as student bonding. 

The learning process, group debates, storytelling, and interactive sessions all contribute to developing innovative learning communication skills and abilities in the classroom.

Role Of Co-curricular Activities In Child Development

Every kid has a distinct personality, and the school must be able to assist the student in discovering his or her passions and interests while also assisting the student in becoming the most excellent version of themselves. 

Co-curricular activities are essential for students’ holistic development because they provide them with the talents, skills, and values to meet future problems. Here are a few prominent advantages of co-curricular activities in the classroom

Students can explore their interests and hobbies while also developing their capacity to multitask and manage their time by participating in such activities outside of the classroom.

Students learn to study concepts, develop new solutions to address issues and analyze the reasons behind different circumstances as part of participation in co-curricular activities.

They also learn to lead by accepting responsibility for their behaviors, making goals, and inspiring others to help them achieve their objectives. 

They can learn to cooperate, form excellent connections with their classmates, regulate their emotions, and empathize with others when working in a group.

Student interactions are critical for academic growth and increasing students’ excitement and achievement. Interacting with others has shown to be a very effective way for people to learn to organize their thoughts and reflect on what they have learned.

Interactions allow students to practice their language skills and track their progress, which increases their motivation.

In communicative classroom activities, the interaction between the teacher and students is essential. Therefore, it will guarantee that there is communication in the classroom. In addition, it will help to ensure that the teaching and learning processes go smoothly. 

When interactions between the teacher and students and between students take place, the instruction will fulfill its goal. The gap between instructor and students will narrow in the classroom. Consequently, both the instructor and the students will be participating equally in the teaching and learning process. 

Not only will the instructor be involved in communication, but the students will also be involved in the teaching and learning process.

How MIS International School Encourages Collaboration And Co-Curricular Activities

MIS International School promotes collaboration and communication among students through co-curricular activities on campus. Students are encouraged to participate in performing arts, sports, athletics, various clubs, and events.

Dance, movement, music, and singing are the primary foundations of performing arts. When students participate in role-play, they become acquainted with different roles. To reduce stage fright and instill confidence in pupils, numerous activities/competitions such as Socio-Dramatic Plays, Show & Tell, Extempore, and Elocution are organized at MIS International School.

Cricket, Football, Basketball, Skating, Taekwondo, Gymnastics, and Chess are also available as sports club activities at MIS International School. Skating rinks, basketball courts, football fields, and cricket pitches are examples of cutting-edge outdoor sports facilities at MIS International School.

These co-curricular activities enhance students’ learning experiences by assisting them in identifying and developing their inner gifts such as creative and public speaking abilities, leadership traits, and other critical traits. In addition, co-curricular activities allow children to think outside the box and develop their creative ideas.

Students at MIS International School are taught to develop their brains, and a flexible curriculum fosters their curiosity. As a result, students are liberated from the constraints of mental impediments and are free to let their ideas run wild.

The value of imagination is highly emphasized in this passage. The school plays an integral part in determining a nation’s future by fostering the general development of the country’s future population. Children are exposed not just to new ideas but also to peers their age. In addition, it instills gregarious behaviors, such as empathy, friendship, participation, and assistance, which will be vital as they mature.

MIS International School strives to cultivate responsibly, fulfilled Global Citizens and lifelong learners who contribute to humanity’s true growth. It provides the highest quality education, a qualified, creative, and knowledgeable team, and a complete curriculum in a safe, innovative learning environment.

MIS seeks to offer high-quality education programs that emphasize creative and entertaining learning settings. The goal of MIS International School is to provide Global Education with Holistic Development. MIS teaches students to enhance their minds while also encouraging their curiosity through a customizable curriculum.

These MIS International School amenities and co-curricular activities enhance students’ creative and physical growth in the long run.

So, offer your child the opportunity to grow with like-minded individuals and watch them develop into global citizens at MIS International School!

[marmoset-marmoset]

I know what your people are like, and 9 times out of 10 the problem is one of these:

- They already are in fact out of the ditch. Missing this or not finding it important, you want to recap all the things they did wrong to end up in the ditch.

- Your proposed solution is something a labrador retriever would be able to think of, so asking if someone has thought of it will make them assume you think they are genuinely stupid. You probably are not trying to do this! You are thinking about what you would do with a similar problem and talking it through. But it's worth stopping to consider that if they haven't fixed the problem with Obvious Solution, there is probably an actual reason and going "why don't you just do Obvious Solution?" is not actual help.

- If you DO actually have no respect for their problem-solving abilities and sort of think they are stupid... well, they won't like that, and they probably aren't actually too stupid to notice?

- What's really upsetting them about the situation is something different than what you've assumed. Let's pretend the car is a beloved heirloom passed on by their dead mother. They are upset because now they have dinged it up and got mud on it, and are distraught and having a big grief reaction about letting their mother down. They have been totally focused on this rather than getting themselves out of the ditch. They may or may not do a decent job communicating this to you, and may really have sounded like their problem is their car is in the ditch! But logistical advice for getting a car out of a ditch does not solve the problem they really have. Someone who is quite upset may miss the miscommunication completely, and assume you are not talking about their real problem because you think it is not important. Then they get mad.

- Probably most frequently of all: the person you're trying to help knows/strongly believes that the solution you are offering is not going to work, or is not even realistically on the table for them. They know/believe this because of some sort of context or background knowledge about the situation that you do not have. It would take a whole bunch of time and effort to explain the situation, and/or they don't think you'll believe them, and/or it would involve something they aren't comfortable sharing with you. People who are literal flow-chart-y problem solvers are often... not inclined to back off based on hints, or to take things "on faith" that *to them* don't have an obvious logical backing. This leads to conflict.

As a veteran of SO many unproductive family arguments in this format between well-meaning people with clashing flavours of weird brain... we could probably all stand to 1) do more asking people *how* we can help them AND ask people more clearly for what help you need, and 2) remember that people say things based on the information they have, which probably isn't the same as the information you have.

(Disclaimer: sometimes people genuinely need a prod in the ass, or need to think through how their own actions have contributed to the problem they're having. Under some circumstances this might be a very kind thing to do for a friend! But it does not mix well with trying to be generally "helpful" and supportive, even though those of us who aren't so comfortable with confrontation are often tempted to wrap our criticism in some "support" framework. We should not be surprised when this is correctly perceived as criticism!)

Imagine if you ran a towing service and someone called you like "hey I drove into a ditch and I hate it here, shouldn't have done that, this shit sucks", and goes on to lament about how they should've gotten different tyres, describing in vivid detail exactly how it happened and how they should have done all these things differently so they wouldn't have ended up in this ditch because being in this ditch sucks so bad and they hate being in it.

And when you're like "okay alright, let me know where you're at so I can tell you roughly how long it's going to take for me to get there with the truck", they go "ooh no no no no don't send anyone, I don't want anyone to pull me out or anything. I just wanted to let someone know that I hate it here."

And that's roughly how it feels like to be a solution-person when someone just wants to vent.