#An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding

[philosophybits]

From causes which appear similar, we expect similar effects. This is the sum of all our experimental conclusions.

David Hume, An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding

[lepistemologie]

“Those who have a propensity to philosophy, will still continue their researches; because they reflect, that, besides the immediate pleasure, attending such an occupation, philosophical decisions are nothing but the reflections of common life, methodized and corrected.”

-David Hume, An Enquiry concerning Human Understanding

[philosophybitmaps]

[fourdramas]

“it is only probably all men must die, or that the sun will rise to-morrow”

-David Hume, An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding, section 6

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

"So that, upon the whole, we may conclude, that the Christian Religion not only was at first attended with miracles, but even at this day cannot be believed by any reasonable person without one. Mere reason is insufficient to convince us of its veracity: And whoever is moved by Faith to assent to it, is conscious of a continued miracle in his own person, which subverts all the principles of his understanding, and gives him a determination to believe what is most contrary to custom and experience." -- David Hume, "An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding" (1748)

[sovietunion]

Oooo im a sociology major! Which is sort of related to philosophy kinda? Idk they're both social studies :) do you have any philosophy things to recc? (Books, podcasts, youtoobs, etc)

I'm taking a sociology class this semester omg. I took a cultural anthropology one last semester and really liked it so I'm excited for the sociology class. I don't think I have any philosophy things to recommend other than philosophical texts but I really liked David Hume's an enquiry concerning human understanding which introduced me to empiricism (I read Locke a little later) and I thought it was really interesting. Fuck Hume though. For books I recommend the brothers Karamazov I can't emphasize how much I love this book...

[tom-hutchcraft]

The Radicalisation Process - Tom's Thoughts #1

For one reason or another, I've recently found myself trying to understand how someone becomes radicalised, perhaps in person first, and how this process may be fuelled by continuous online exposure to the same harmful ideologies they were initially exposed to.

It seems to be the case that those most vulnerable in society - psychologically, intellectually, economically, or other - are most susceptible to attempts of radicalisation. But, anyone yearning for meaning or connection could also be at risk. Imagine suddenly becoming a divorcee, living alone without your kids, without any real social life. You're quite vulnerable. It makes sense that you'd be looking for connection; even just something to fill the time.

Someone/some group walks into your life and offers exactly what you're missing. They quite naturally assume a lot of power over you in that state. Over time, you can imagine what sort of indoctrination could take place, especially if you're naturally agreeable, or uneducated etc.

You may take your new-found attitudes to the online world, likely after those in the real world disagree and distance themselves. However, this quickly becomes an 'echo-chamber' where there is a distinct lack of open, reasonable, fair-yet-critical discourse such as that found in scientific enquiry, for example. Radicalised individuals are then easily able to find others who feel the same way and form (geographically scattered & small IRL, yet influential online) groups who continually reinforce each other's extreme views.

This appears to be a difficult situation from which to become 'unstuck' - some studies suggest terrorist radicalisation is impossible to undo. But, I believe we should try our best to help, particularly if it concerns a loved one, or something as important as your human rights.

If you found anything I said in this blog interesting, please consider listening to the podcast 'Understanding Online Radicalisation' (Tech Against Terrorism, 2022):

[govindhtech]

Quantum Poetry Contest for International Year of Quantum

Quantum Poetry

IYQ Poetry Contest entries are still open, therefore quantum-themed poets should apply.

The UN's UNESCO-designated International Year of Quantum (IYQ) welcomes poets worldwide to explore quantum research through poetry with the return of the Brilliant Quantum Poetry Competition. World Poetry Day is March 21, 2025, and this free contest runs until June 30, 2025.

UNESCO International Year of Quantum Science and Technology and  quantum mechanics 100th anniversary in 2025 are commemorated. IYQ 2025 aims to inspire future quantum scientists, raise awareness, and support the quantum workforce through education and communication. The Brilliant Quantum Poetry Competition promotes innovative enquiry in quantum science, a “wellspring of inspiration for poets, artists, and thinkers alike” and a field for physicists.

The contest's originator, Edinburgh Napier University scientific poetry professor Sam Illingworth, is leading it. “The best quantum Poetry, like the best science, is about curiosity, observation, and making sense of the world in new ways,” Professor Illingworth beautifully says. In “Brilliant poetry,” authors can “explore science with both wonder and precision, creating work that resonates across disciplines.” Kylie Ahern founded The Brilliant, a global online science newspaper that blends art and science to connect the public to science. The publication fuels competition.

Quantum concerns are the competition's focus, however poets can be inspired by any scientific idea. This entails investigating superposition and quantum entanglement, which link particles over great distances. The famous Schrödinger's cat thought experiment, which determines a cat's life or death based on a quantum system, is also lyrical. These intricate and stunning subjects are “perfect for poetic exploration” say the organisers.

Photonics, a key quantum research topic, is intriguing this year. Poets should understand photons' quantum qualities, notably their particle-wave properties. Quantum-level light-matter interactions have advanced computing, communication, quantum encryption, imaging, and sensing technology. Photonics intrigues poets by bringing quantum notions to life in “vibrant, tangible ways.”

Free entry to the Brilliant Quantum Poetry Competition is open to authors worldwide. Each participant may submit one original poem written by humans without AI. Poetry must be 40 words in English, French, or Spanish and inspired by quantum subjects. First, second, and third place winners collect £1000, £500, and £250. These outstanding achievements will be highlighted in a live online reading event celebrating quantum science and technology's 100th anniversary.

Submissions are due June 30, 2025, not June 20. You must submit at TheBrilliantPoetry.com. After examining submissions from July to September 2025, the organising committee will select 30–40 poems. These ten great poems will be chosen by known judges in September and presented in October 2025. World Science Day for Peace and Development, November 10, 2025, will identify and celebrate winners.

Award-winning scientist, science communicator, and science and culture advocate Diego Golombek judges the tournament. With him, French physicist, author, and artist Jean-Pierre Luminet, PhD, studies black holes and cosmology. Kalinga Prise laureate and CNRS emeritus research director Luminet created the first computer-simulated black hole image and promotes science through quantum poetry, literature, and visual arts.

Brilliant quantum Poetry serves to simplify and fascinate scientific study, not only compete. Knowledge and discoveries are deepened to stress creative expression. The Brilliant uses art and science to tell breakthrough stories and promote scientific-public relations.

All poets can express themselves. This contest offers a unique opportunity to join a global celebration where “words meet wonder,” blending art and science to celebrate a groundbreaking topic and impress a global audience.

To conclude

International poetry contest hosted by The Brilliant Quantum Poetry and funded by UNESCO's International Year of Quantum (IYQ) is open until June 30, 2025. This competition encourages poets to explore quantum science in rhyme to simplify complex scientific issues. Participants can submit one original, human-written quantum poem of up to forty lines in English, French, or Spanish. Winners receive cash and international recognition. For quantum mechanics' 100th anniversary, the UN launched the 2025 IYQ to educate the public, motivate young scientists, and increase awareness. Competition judges are professionals in both domains and encourage art-science creativity.

[philosophybits]

Nothing is more free than the imagination of man; and though it cannot exceed that original stock of ideas furnished by the internal and external senses, it has unlimited power of mixing, compounding, separating, and dividing these ideas, in all the varieties of fiction and vision.

David Hume, An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding

[lepistemologie]

“While we study with attention the vanity of human life, and turn all our thoughts towards the empty and transitory nature of riches and honors, we are, perhaps, all the while, flattering our natural indolence, which, hating the bustle of the world, and drudgery of business, seeks a pretense of reason, to give itself a full and uncontrolled indulgence.”

-David Hume, An Enquiry concerning Human Understanding

[philosophybitmaps]

[isabellerichards]

Beyond the Rent Cheque: Cultivating Happy Tenants and a Thriving Property

Being a landlord isn't just about bricks and mortar or the monthly transfer of funds. At its heart, it's a people business. While the financial aspects are undeniably crucial, neglecting the human element – the relationship with your tenants – can be a costly oversight. Cultivating positive tenant relationships isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a cornerstone of successful property management, leading to greater stability, reduced turnover, and a more harmonious experience for everyone involved.

Let's explore why nurturing these relationships is so important and, more importantly, how it can be effectively achieved.

The Ripple Effect of Happy Tenants: Why Positive Relationships Matter

The benefits of fostering good relationships with your tenants extend far beyond simple pleasantries. They create a positive ripple effect that touches various aspects of your property investment.

Reduced Tenant Turnover

Finding new tenants is a time-consuming and expensive process. It involves advertising costs, viewings, vetting applications, and potential void periods where the property generates no income. Happy tenants are far more likely to renew their leases, providing you with consistent income and saving you the hassle and expense of frequent tenant changes.

Improved Communication and Cooperation

When tenants feel valued and respected, they are more likely to communicate openly and honestly about any issues, whether it's a minor maintenance request or a potential concern. This proactive communication allows you to address problems early on, preventing them from escalating into more significant and costly issues.

Better Property Care

Tenants who feel a sense of connection to their landlord and the property are often more inclined to take better care of it. They are more likely to report maintenance needs promptly and treat the property with respect, reducing wear and tear and the need for extensive repairs.

Positive Word-of-Mouth Referrals

Satisfied tenants can become your best advocates. They may recommend your properties to friends, family, or colleagues who are looking for a place to rent, providing you with a valuable source of high-quality leads.

A More Harmonious Community

In multi-unit properties, positive relationships between landlords and tenants can contribute to a more harmonious and pleasant living environment for everyone. This reduces the likelihood of neighbourly disputes and creates a more desirable place to live.

Increased Property Value

Well-maintained properties with a history of stable, long-term tenancies are generally more attractive to potential buyers, ultimately contributing to the long-term value of your investment.

Laying the Foundations: How to Build Strong Tenant Connections

Cultivating positive tenant relationships isn't about becoming best friends with everyone. It's about establishing a professional yet approachable demeanour and implementing practices that demonstrate respect, fairness, and good communication.

Open and Transparent Communication

From the initial viewing to ongoing tenancy matters, clear and honest communication is paramount. Be responsive to enquiries, provide timely updates, and explain policies and procedures clearly. Avoid jargon and ensure tenants understand their rights and responsibilities.

Respect and Professionalism

Treat all tenants with respect, regardless of their background or circumstances. Maintain a professional demeanour in all interactions, whether in person, over the phone, or via email. Avoid making assumptions or engaging in unprofessional behaviour.

Fairness and Consistency

Apply rules and policies fairly and consistently across all tenants. Avoid showing favouritism or making exceptions without clear and justifiable reasons. This builds trust and ensures everyone feels they are being treated equitably.

Being Responsive to Maintenance Requests

Promptly addressing maintenance requests is a tangible way to show tenants that you care about their comfort and well-being. Have a clear process for reporting maintenance issues and ensure timely and effective repairs. Keeping tenants informed about the progress of repairs is also crucial.

Regular Check-Ins (Without Being Intrusive)

While respecting tenants' privacy is essential, occasional, non-intrusive check-ins can help you identify any potential issues early on and demonstrate your attentiveness. This could be a brief email or a quick chat during a routine property inspection (conducted with proper notice).

Seeking Feedback and Acting on It

Be open to receiving feedback from your tenants and, where appropriate, act on it. This shows that you value their opinions and are committed to providing a positive living experience. Consider sending out brief surveys periodically to gather insights.

Going the Extra Mile (Where Appropriate)

Small gestures can sometimes go a long way in building goodwill. This might be a small welcome gift for new tenants, acknowledging special occasions, or offering flexibility within reasonable limits when unexpected situations arise.

Respecting Privacy

Always respect tenants' right to privacy. Provide proper notice before entering their property (except in genuine emergencies) and avoid unnecessary intrusions.

Clear and Accessible Policies

Ensure that all property rules, regulations, and procedures are clearly documented and easily accessible to tenants. This minimises misunderstandings and provides a framework for harmonious living.

Navigating Challenges: Maintaining Positive Relationships During Difficult Times

Even with the best intentions, challenges can arise during a tenancy, such as late rent payments or neighbour disputes. Maintaining a positive relationship during these times requires a delicate balance of firmness and understanding.

Addressing Issues Promptly and Professionally

Don't let small issues fester. Address them promptly and professionally, following the procedures outlined in the lease agreement and relevant legislation.

Active Listening and Empathy

When dealing with tenant concerns or complaints, practice active listening and try to understand their perspective. While you need to uphold the terms of the lease, showing empathy can help de-escalate situations and foster a more cooperative approach to finding solutions.

Fair and Consistent Enforcement of Rules

While empathy is important, it's also crucial to enforce the rules and regulations fairly and consistently. This ensures that all tenants are held to the same standards and prevents resentment.

Seeking Mediation When Necessary

In cases of significant disputes, consider exploring mediation as a way to facilitate communication and find mutually agreeable solutions without resorting to legal action.

Learning from Mistakes

If a tenant relationship sours, take the time to reflect on what could have been handled differently. Use these experiences to improve your approach in the future.

The Long-Term Investment: Happy Tenants, Happy Landlord

Investing time and effort in building positive relationships with your tenants is not just a matter of good manners; it's a smart business strategy. Happy tenants contribute to a more stable, profitable, and enjoyable experience for landlords. By prioritising open communication, respect, fairness, and responsiveness, you can cultivate a thriving property where tenants feel valued and are more likely to stay for the long haul, creating a win-win situation for everyone involved. Ultimately, remembering the human element in property management is key to building a successful and sustainable rental business.

Think Happy Tenants Don't Matter? Think Again! Unlock the Secret to Landlord Success

Beyond the monthly rent lies the key to a thriving property: your tenants. Discover why cultivating positive relationships isn't just good manners, it's smart business. Learn actionable strategies to boost tenant satisfaction, slash turnover, and create a harmonious property where everyone wins. Ready to transform your landlord game? Read on!

[literaturereviewhelp]

John Locke’s Theory of Knowledge and human understanding John Locke’s philosophy on mind and thought; an analysis on how human beings think and express themselves through logic, language and religious practices. Reading of the book The Epistle to the reader and how he describes his involvement in the philosophical mode of thinking Understanding of the anecdote about conversation with friends Hume’s concept on causation Hume’s understanding on the An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding Understanding three ways of constructing an idea; continuity, resemblance, lastly cause and effect. 2. Kant’s view on causality; reading and understanding his book, Critique of Pure Reason and his key view that "everything that happens, that is, begins to be, presupposes something upon which it follows by rule," (218) Synthetic a priori truths and the conclusion that science is grounded on synthetic a prior judgments Understanding of the analytic-synthetic and the a priori-a posteriori which are semantic and epistemological respectively A fundamental problem with Kant’s analysis of causality Comparing Kant and Hume on the causality Kant’s views on induction, the relevant connections and the laws of nature Kant’s, Hume and the Newton’s views on the science of nature Mind making nature according to Kant Kants Transcendental Idealism 3. Understanding Hume’s problem of induction Understanding of various research studies and the concepts that helps in understanding of the same -Understanding the analysis concept in relevant papers in a study Secular Responses to the Problem of Induction The induction, deduction and the scientific method Understanding the concept of induction and relevance to the statistical studies Locke’s views on Scientia in natural philosophy and obstacles to human attainment An A Priori Justification on the induction and techniques in problem solving Measuring problem solving performance and techniques 4. Read the full article

[techsavvy-agcy]

Decoding the Google Core Update, March 2025

Decoding the Google Core Update, March 2025

On March 13th, 2025, the constantly changing and unforeseeable digital world felt another major shakeup with the release of Google's newest core algorithm update. Just like before, the official explanation of the update was typically unclear, highlighting the continued focus on "rewarding top-notch content" and "enhancing search accuracy." Still, the impact was evident, causing a lot of worry and hurried changes in the SEO field.

This piece explores the effects, some educated guesses, and the best ways to handle the Google Core update from March 13th, 2025. It aims to clarify how the algorithm is changing and what that means for those who run websites and create content.

The Aftermath: Search Results in Flux

Right after the update, the search engine results pages (SERPs) saw some major shifts. Tools that monitor such volatility showed huge jumps, pointing to big changes in rankings across different sectors. Initial reports zeroed in on a few key areas:

E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness): Google has always cared a lot about E-E-A-T in how they judge website quality, but the update in March 2025 seemed to turn up the volume on it. Websites that showed they knew their stuff, had proven expertise, were authoritative, and were super trustworthy did a lot better.

Content Authenticity and Originality: Google seemed to get much stricter about content that AI just cranked out without much original thought or real value. Sites that used a bunch of rehashed content, rewritten articles, or stuff that looked like it came straight from an AI template saw their rankings take a nosedive.

User Experience (UX) and Page Experience: Things like how fast your site loads, if it's easy to use on mobile, and overall how user-friendly it is were way more important after the update. Slow websites, had annoying pop-ups or were a pain to use on phones got dinged.

Contextual Relevance and Semantic Understanding: Google's update appeared to fine-tune its capacity for grasping the context and purpose embedded within search queries. Sites that provided comprehensive, in-depth content that addressed the nuances of user searches saw improvements.

Data Driven Content: Websites that used first party data to personalize and improve user experiences, and that used data to back up claims, saw significant improvements.

Analyzing the Algorithm's Evolving Priorities

The Rise of "Human-Centric" Content: The update reinforced the notion that Google is prioritizing content created by humans, for humans. This goes beyond simply avoiding AI-generated text; it emphasizes the importance of genuine insights, personal experiences, and a conversational tone.

Emphasis on Real-World Experience: The "Experience" element of E-E-A-T took center stage. This suggests that Google is placing greater value on content creators who have real-world experience in the topics they cover. First hand accounts and demonstrations of real world product usage were rewarded.

Combatting Misinformation and Disinformation: In an era of rampant misinformation, Google appeared to be strengthening its defenses against unreliable or misleading content. This involved stricter scrutiny of sources, a greater emphasis on fact-checking, and a preference for content from established authorities.

The Importance of Contextual Understanding: The upgrade demonstrated Google's developing capacity to understand linguistic nuances and the context of user enquiries. This shows that semantic SEO and topic clustering are becoming more important.

Privacy and User Data: With growing user concern about privacy, Google's algorithm appears to be rewarding sites with clear data-gathering policies that prioritize customer privacy.

Video and Multimedia: Video content, especially content that is original, well produced, and engaging, got a large boost in rankings. Long form, well edited videos, that are not just re-purposed content, were very well received by the algorithm.

Emerging Best Practices for the Post-March 2025 Landscape

In the wake of the update, website owners and content creators were forced to adapt their strategies. The following best practices emerged as essential for navigating the evolving search landscape:

Prioritize E-E-A-T: Focus on increasing your brand's authority and trustworthiness. Display your knowledge through author profiles, credentials, and real-world experience. Seek expert contributions and endorsements.

Create Original, High-Quality Content: Invest in original research, in-depth analysis, and distinctive opinions. Avoid using AI-generated content that lacks originality or value.

Optimize the user experience:  Make sure your website is speedy, mobile-friendly, and simple to navigate. Address Core Web Vitals concerns and prioritize a consistent user experience.

Embrace semantic SEO: Create content that takes into account the complexities of user intent and search query context. Topic clustering and semantic keywords can help you develop topical authority.

Build Authentic Backlinks: Concentrate on obtaining high-quality backlinks from credible sources. Avoid using black-hat link-building strategies.

Focus on Data and Transparency:  Show users how data is gathered and used. Ensure that privacy policies are explicit and user data is secure.

Invest in Video Content: Make high-quality, engaging videos that add value to your viewers. Optimize videos for search and make them accessible.

Monitor and Adapt: Stay up to current on algorithm updates, and regularly monitor the performance of your website. Prepare to adapt your strategies as needed.

Focus on First-Party Data: Collect and use first-party data to tailor the customer experience. This enables more targeted content and a better experience.

Create a Community:  Create a user community centered around your brand. This can be accomplished using social media, forums, and other online channels. Strong communities generate social signals, which Google values.

The long-term implications

The Google core upgrade on March 13th, 2025, marked a substantial shift in the algorithm's objectives, emphasizing the significance of human-centric information, genuine expertise, and a user-first approach. As Google improves its comprehension of language and user intent, website owners and content providers must adapt to the changing standards.

The update is likely to have the following long-term implications:

A More Level Playing Field for Smaller Websites: By emphasizing E-E-A-T and original material, Google may level the playing field for smaller websites that can demonstrate actual expertise and offer distinctive value.

A Decline in Low-Quality, AI-Generated Content: The crackdown on AI-generated content is expected to result in a decrease in low-quality, spammy content that clutters the SERPs.

A Greater Emphasis on User Experience: Google's continuous emphasis on UX is likely to result in overall improvements in website design and performance.

A More Contextually Relevant Search Experience: Google's improved semantic understanding is expected to result in a more relevant and fulfilling search experience for users.

A renewed focus on the human element of content creation: The value of real people, and their real-world experiences, will only continue to increase.

In conclusion, the March 13th, 2025, Google core update served as a stark reminder of the dynamic nature of the digital landscape. By prioritizing E-E-A-T, originality, user experience, and contextual understanding, Google is pushing website owners and content creators to embrace a more human-centric and value-driven approach. Those who can adapt to these evolving standards will be well-positioned to thrive in the years to come. The future of search is focused on genuine human connection and genuine human experience.

[spermarket]

Behavior Analytics Market Analysis, Demand, Trends, Business Scope and Future Competition 2034: SPER Market Research

Behavior analytics involves using technology like machine learning, artificial intelligence, and big data to study human behavior. It helps find patterns and trends to improve decision-making, optimize processes, and enhance security. The industry focuses on collecting and analyzing consumer data to understand what drives customers. Digital product users, like those of apps or websites, provide data on their behaviors, allowing companies to assess customer engagement and enhance their digital services in the future. 

According to SPER market research, ‘Global Behavior Analytics Market Size- By Deployment Model, By Component, By End-User - Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecast to 2034’ state that the Global Behavior Analytics Market is predicted to reach 33.04 billion by 2034 with a CAGR of 19.78%. 

Drivers: 

The industry is driven by the rise of digital platforms and the rapid increase of data from online interactions. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) play key roles in developing behavioral analytics solutions. 

Major sectors pushing for these solutions include e-commerce, finance, healthcare, cybersecurity, and telecommunications. Analytics will help e-commerce and finance improve marketing, pricing, and customer retention. 

The growth of connected devices and data from IoT sensors is creating new chances for behavioral analytics. Integrating these solutions with big data platforms allows organizations to analyze various data sources for insights. 

Request a Free Sample Report: https://www.sperresearch.com/report-store/behavior-analytics-market?sample=1

Restraints: 

Data privacy concerns are a major limitation for the behavior analytics market. These solutions involve collecting and analyzing large amounts of often sensitive user data. Continuous tracking of user patterns can reveal detailed insights into individual habits and interactions, raising the risk of misuse or unauthorized access to private information. Strict data confidentiality regulations, like GDPR in Europe and CCPA in the US, complicate the gathering and use of personal data. Organizations need to ensure compliance, which can be costly, leading to reluctance in adopting behavior analytics fully. These concerns hinder market growth as organizations weigh the benefits against privacy risks. 

North America is expected to have the largest market share during the forecast period due to many advanced technology and cybersecurity firms that adopt innovative solutions early. There is a strong focus on cybersecurity in both public and private sectors, increasing the demand for behavior analytics to protect against complex threats. The established IT infrastructure and a large number of enterprises recognize the need for behavior analytics for security, compliance, and efficiency. Strict data protection regulations encourage organizations to use behavior analytics to meet compliance. Companies also use behavior analytics in workforce management to understand employee behavior, enhance productivity, and improve workplace satisfaction. Some of the key market players are IBM Corporation, Splunk Inc, HP Enterprises, Dtex Systems, LogRhythm, Rapid7 Balabit Corp, Bay Dynamics, and others. 

For More Information, refer to below link: –  

Behavior Analytics Market Growth

Related Reports:  

IoT Middleware Market Growth, Size, Trends Analysis- By Platform, By Enterprise Size, By Industry Vertical - Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecast to 2034

Global Data Center Networking Market Growth, Size, Trends Analysis- By Component, By End Use - Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecast to 2034

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[silverv0id]

“If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?”

The gound was smooth as ice when June awoke. His thin flannel now wore large gaping holes all over its front and back. The badges he had sawed onto his flannell were half ripped out, some loosely hanging in surrender to the elements while others were missing entirely.

Where pain should have been, June felt nothing at all. In an instant his throat narrowed, a gaping black whole forming at the bottom of his chest. He knew, however, the futility of his fear. He had nothing to lose. It was over. It was too late now. Too late for tears, for fear, for anger. The feeling surrendered at the merciless nihilsm which reigned in this new world.

Dropping to his knees June stared at the distant horizon, the sun was setting and a white mist hung just above the endless sea before him. He was on a cliff overlooking what seemed to be an endless expanse of dark blue water.

What would you do if you faced death? No not charon. Death as in an endless expanse of nothing at all. An infinity with no up or down. What would you think? June thought of coffee. Coffee with heavy cooking cream and brown cane sugar. It was a sweet combination, just the right consistency. Way to start the day. It was like hot chocolate but with coffee, he reasoned. It was also a warm embrace on a cold winter night. When no one else was there and he could only think in shades of blue because quite frankly when you're cold and you don't realise just how heavy your satchel is but you carry on regardless because you have places to be, well you get kind of tired then. And June was tired. And despit the numbness, he was cold.

It is not that it was a bad life. It just wasn't a complete life. No, no picket fence dreams. June wanted warmth, recogntion, understanding and care. Try as hard he might the place the so loved and longed for remained firmly rooted in fantasy. Now at the edge of all eternity he had only coffee and a quaint fantasy in mind.

Well yes he should probably have spent more time with his parents and applied for that internship he so longed for but at the edge of all existence is that really what matters? What does actually matter when everything even remotely important vanishes and you fidn yourself on a desolate plane with no conceivable way out? His cat.

Nox was a mischievous black cat with an attitude. She also aodred him. Maybe it was the catnip and the tuna but during those heavy winter nights and even summer nights, she refused to leave his side. What would she think now? She would have known. June doesn't exactly know how but he just kind of knew that Nox got the message. If he could only go back...he would give Nox the longest cuddle he could muster.

Well he was lying, June knew there were other things he would have liked to do too. When Nadine asked him if he felt alright, he wanted to say no. June wasn't quite ure but he thought that she did care. Not for any particular reason but because June was human. He remembered, with a pang of icy regret that shot up to his throat, how he coldly dismissed the enquiry. He did not want much more than, well, the attention. He wanted someone to worry. To show real concern.

Maybe that was all drama though. He was a threatre kid at heart. Maybe what he really wanted to see were the trees swaying in the wind. Or maybe the green meadows and valleys thsat stretched all across the country. This new place didn't have any. Neither did the scenery right outside the train. Oh yes, the train. He would try and lose that interest if he could. As much as he loved trains, well, you can only love something so much and when it kills you that becomes a tough obstacle to overcome in your relationship.