#i mean i love lake and I love how deep and meaningful season 2 was

[its-a-gemfact]

honestly kez is my favourite denizen 

[aspoonofsugar]

Hi! How are you doing? Not sure if it's already been asked, but what are your top 10 favourite canon couples?

Hello!

I am doing fine, thank you! How are you doing?

It is alright, nobody has asked this before, so I can answer! That said, I am not really a hardcore shipper, so I am not sure I will come up with 10 pairs :’‘‘). I’ll do my best though! Also I have interpreted the term “canon” very freely.

As usual, here they are in no particular order:

1) Claire Stanfield and Chane Laforet (Baccano!):

I love their dynamic because they are fundamentally two almost opposite individuals who end up together in a surprising way. On one hand Claire thinks that he is the protagonist not only of his own story, but of the whole world. As a matter of fact he believes that the world is nothing more than a dream of his. Ironically, it is because of this selfish delusion that Claire is able to embrace the whole world:

“So what if I'd spare him? In my mind it's the certainty in myself that I possess which allows me to have that kind of mercy or compassion. There's no wavering on that point. It's fixed like the stars. The fact is I'm never gonna be killed! So remember this: mercy and compassion are virtues that only the strong are privileged to possess. And I am strong.”

On the other hand Chane has chosen to be nothing more than her father’s puppet. She is a satellite character in her own life and can’t absolutely think to live as a protagonist. If Claire’s world is too big, Chane’s too little because it has only her and her father in it. What is more, Chane has gone out of her way to make sure that it stays that way. For example, she asked her father to take her voice away and has not learnt alternative ways to communicate (like sign language).

Given this premise, it is interesting that a person so self-centered like Claire puts a person with such a frail sense of self like Chane at the centre of his world. Claire makes Chane, who is not even the lead of her own story, the heroine of his huge world. Claire instead plays a support role in Chane’s story. It is precisely because of this contradiction that their dynamic works. All in all Chane gets to get in contact with the world through Claire. Because of this, she is challenged to grow. This is another interesting difference between them. On one hand Claire is basically like Peter Pan and can’t really grow psychologically. On the other hand Chane is a character who has changed, but who is scared of this change. This is why she tries to actively regress, but she can’t really go back to who she was.

2) Komugi and Meruem (HxH):

I have explained here what I love about them. Their relationship conveys the themes of the chimera ants arc beautifully. I especially like it because it would have been easy to have Meruem grow fond of Komugi because of her kindness and goodness. However, this is not really what happens. The reason why Meruem is so attracted by Komugi is her prowess as a Gungi player. Komugi is not a character who coddles Meruem, but one who challenges him. As a result Meruem’s attraction for her is rooted in respect. Meruem brings out from Komugi her talent and stubborness, while Komugi brings out from him his caring and kind side. Meruem becomes interested in her because of the traits they share and grows to love what makes her different from him.

3) Ash Lynx and Eiji Okumura (Banana Fish):

I like their relationship, but I would have loved for it to be explored even more throughout the story. All in all, they are attracted to each other because they want something the other has. Eiji wants Ash’s initiative and daring personality, while Ash wants Eiji’s freedom and soothing personality. Eiji wants Ash’s ability to fight for himself, while Ash wants Eiji’s talent to heal others instead of hurting them.

Despite this, they are not fully able to grow as they could have because of the violence of the conflict they are in. Eiji makes some steps in the right direction, but the moment a wound incapacitates him he goes back to his more passive behaviour. When it comes to Ash, he is not able to take fligth like he would like because of self-hate. Their ending is tragic, but I wonder if it could have been different. For example, after a meaningful conflict the two of them decide to avoid fighting and to simply enjoy the time they spend together. This is a relatable choice, but a series of things are left unexpressed and because of this they are not really able to overcome their flaws. Maybe, if they had fought a little more and had called each other out more, things could have been different in the end.

4) Claire Nunez and Jim Lake Jr (Tales of Arcadia):

I have talked about them here. They are two very similar people to the point that they have basically the same flaw. They both feel responsible for bad things happening to them and to their friends. This is why they end up trying to fix everything by their own and fail spectacularly. It is nice to see them find help and support by their loved ones. And it is heart-warming that they keep being there for each other.

5) Chidi Anagonye and Eleanor Shellstrop (The Good Place):

Eleanor and Chidi are completely different people and this is why they are perfect to challenge each other. Chidi inspires Eleanor to be more selfless and to open up to others, while Eleanor inspires Chidi to be daring. This is obvious since season 1 and it is a constant throughout the series. Their relationship is a good example of a relationship which is conflictual, but enriching. In order to stay together they (other than escaping hell) must overcome their respective flaws. Eleanor must be vulnerable and let Chidi in her life, while Chidi must be decisive and actively choose Eleanor.

I also like that this is true even in those timelines where they do not develop a romantic relationship. The fact that their relationship is the same, but also slightly differs in each reboot makes it gain a very nice thematic meaning and enriches it. All in all, what Chidi and Eleanor represent for each other is always the same and what changes is the platonic/romantic aspect of the bond.

Finally I like the motif of them leaving messages to their future selves about the other. At the end of season 1, Eleanor writes to herself: “Find Chidi”, while at the end of season 3 Chidi writes  to himself: “Eleanor is the answer”. This is a very cool motif which conveys their respective growth thanks to the other. Eleanor who only trusts herself chooses to trust Chidi’s ability to help her. Chidi who has spent his whole life searching for answers and failing to write them down decides that Eleanor is all he needs to find meaning in his life.

6) Roy Mustang and Riza Hawkeye:

Their relationship is my favourite of the whole series. Their characters are beautifully intertwined to the point that they can barely function without the other. This aspect of their bond is not excessively romanticized, but it is presented as a dreadful consequence of the traumatic past they share. At the end of the day Roy and Riza are too highly idealistic people whose ideals were shattered before they could evolve in something more than childish dreams. Despite this, they were able to put the fragments of those great dreams back together and have chosen to sacrifice their personal happiness to realize them.

All in all, Riza and Roy want redemption for their crimes and they find comfort in each other while they try to obtain it. In order to make things better they are ready to sacrifice their own existences and they have given up on the chance of living normal lives as civilians. However, they still have each other.

Roy gives Riza someone to protect, so that she does not fall apart and remains functional, while Riza restrains Roy’s most negative instincts. They make each other better even if they can’t completely overcome the pain of their past. They can just share it with the other.

Finally I especially like the scene where Roy chooses not to transmute humans even if it means Riza will most likely die. As a matter of fact, despite it all, that act is not framed as a betrayal of Riza, but rather as the only thing he can do not to betray her. I love both relationships where a character fixated on an ideal lets go of it because of people and relationships which make a person realize the importance of an ideal. They are both beautiful when well written. Here we are in front of a bond where both aspects are present. On one hand Roy must let go of his desire of vengeance not to lose Riza. On the other hand Roy must let go of Riza not to betray the ideals they share.

In the end theirs is a very tragic and strict relationship, but also a very warm and human one.

7) Kokomi Teruhashi and Saiki Kusuo (Saiki Q):

They are not properly canon since they are not together by the end. However, I think there is enough in the series to support the ship. Anyway, it is still a ship I enjoy a lot (and it is one of the few I feel strongly for, so I am adding it to the list no matter what).

I love their dynamic because it is hilarious, but it could also be surprisingly deep if the narrative wanted to explore it more. Teruhashi is my favourite character of the series because she is a nice subversion of both the yamato nadeshiko trope and of the alpha bitch one. She presents herself as an incredibly beautiful and yet innocent girl, but she is actually very aware of her looks and of others’ reactions. Despite this, she comes along as likeable mostly because she often genuinelly means well despite her being self-centered. Saiki instead projects the image of an average person, but he is actually the most powerful being of the world. In short, Teruhashi and Saiki are both opposite and the same.

They are the same because they both wear a carefully crafted mask. They are opposite because the masks they were are opposite. On one hand Teruhashi’s mask of the perfect girl attracts attention. On the other hand Saiki’s mask of the average guy is meant to make him invisible.

The difference between their two personas is the reason why Saiki wants to avoid Teruhashi at all costs. He wants to be average, so he can’t stay close to a person who attracts so much attention. At the same time, it is clear that Saiki grows to admire Teruhashi specifically because of her ability to always keep her mask up. He knows how difficult it is to realize such a feat and he recognizes Teruhashi’s dedication. Basically Saiki is the only person who knows the real Teruhashi and appreciates her for who she is and not for who she pretends to be.

In short, the series could have done a lot with them if it had wanted to go deeper in their dynamic. Saiki ends up coming to the spotlight multiple times to help Teruhashi, while Teruhashi breaks up her image of perfect girl when close to Saiki.

Unluckily this is the end of the list :’‘‘) I tried to think of other canon couples I enjoy, but even if there are some, I would not call them proper faves. At the same time, there are some ships I enjoy, but they are not properly canon/confirmed to be romantic, so I am not adding them.

Thank you for the ask!

[falling--in--place]

Original Fic Fest: Day 2

It’s romantic relationship day for the @originalficfest! Thank you again to the mods for setting this up! I’ve seen so many cool post from other authors! 

I have two relationships I want to showcase today. First is James and Thomas. I really love these two, and this is an excerpt from Rage:

The entry way was breathtaking. Pale pink cherry blossoms interspersed with red honeysuckles lined the walls, and vases of crimson lilies and blue and green dahlias made a pathway toward the living room; it created the most intoxicating scent. It was an incredible display meaning beauty, happiness, passion, and commitment respectively.

James was standing to my left still awestruck. I smiled at him and nudged him forward. His eyes glistening, he started slowly forward. I followed closely behind him, heart racing, hands trembling. James was like a brother to me, and seeing all of this done for him made me love Thomas all the more. As he turned to the living room he came to an abrupt halt, and I bumped into his shoulder. He reached down to take my hand.

Peering over his shoulder I saw why. Red and pink peonies and purple and pink sweet peas covered every surface. Sweet peas were his favorite. Gus and Cassidy were standing on either side of the doorway across from us. Gus was fidgeting with the sleeves of his jacket, and had tears rolling down his cheeks. Cassidy looked like she had been crying most of the day, and her damp lapels seemed to confirm it. They both dipped their heads to James before pushing the door open. Thomas was standing there with a shy smile. His charcoal grey suit looked brand new. His hands were in his pockets, but it didn’t hide his jittery fingers.

I squeezed James’s hand once before letting go. He turned and gave me a hug, squeezing me tightly and whispered, “check out the neighbors my ass.” I kissed his cheek and grinned at him.

“What are best friends for?”

He swiped at his eyes before turning around and walking further into the room. They both walked slowly and deliberately, meeting halfway. Thomas took his hands, and smiles nervously. Ellie and I slipped a little further into the room, but stayed out of the way. I saw Ms. Claudette sitting in a chair in the corner of the room and gave her a small wave.

“Do you remember how we met?” Thomas practically whispered.

“I do,” James said with a laugh. “I called you an entitled jackass after you spilled coffee all over V and tried to make her pay for it.”

“It was a rough day, but I did apologize for that,” Thomas said with a grin.

“You still owe me a skirt,” I mumbled.

He flashed me a smile, before stepping in closer to James.

“That day was one of the best and the worst days for me. I very nearly lost everything, but then I met you. Granted, at first it was my rage at your audacity that kept me going, but then I ran into you a few more times, not literally thank the gods. I started to notice how kind you were to everyone around you, even me. How your smile lit up the room. I think your eternally optimistic view of the world started to rub off on me.”

He looked down, his voice had started to quiver. He was rubbing the pad of his thumb slowly back and forth over the back of James hand.

“You forgave me and convinced Vanessa not to murder me when I asked for your number. You’ve taught me how to cope with the stress of my job. You’ve taught me how important empathy is. You still love me even when I forget those things and lose my temper. James, having you in my life is more than I could have ever hoped for.”

My heartbeat sped up, and goosebumps spread across my skin. Tears were threatening to spill over as I watched the most heartwarming love sweep over my best friends face. Tears had started to slowly slide down his cheeks. I could hear Cassidy and Ellie sniffling, but I was too transfixed by James to glance at them.

“I want to wake up to you every morning. Fall asleep next to you every night. I want to stand in the bright shine of your empathy and compassion every day. I want to listen to your worries and soothe your fears. I want to grow old with you, and build that small cabin on Oasis Lake. I want all your tomorrows.”

Thomas’s voice started to quiver even more. Tears were spilling faster, and it looked like he had started squeezing James’s hands. My breath hitched as I failed to keep the tears back. Thomas reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, vivid purple stone. It was an oval amethyst, jaggedly cut in half. Thomas bowed his head slightly.

“James would you do me the honor of binding your soul to mine for the rest of our days?”

“It would be my honor,” James breathed as he placed his hands gently on either side of Thomas’s face. He leaned in slowly and kissed him. Thomas’s arms slid around his waist and pulled him closer, holding on to him tightly.

I was the first of the rest of us to move. I sprung to my feet, whistling while I clapped. The others followed suit, and when Thomas and James broke apart, Thomas was blushing, but I had never seen him happier. I ambled over to James and pulled him into a hug.

“I’m so happy for you,” I whispered, squeezing him harder.

“Thank you,” he said back. I held on to him a moment longer, but had to let go for everyone else to have a turn.

The second one is Gus and Cassidy. This happens fifteen years before the start of Rage. I decided to write this out for this fest. I think I will write a lot more of their story sometime soon, but for now, the proposal: 

It had been a long day, but Gus had seemed so excited to have dinner she couldn’t bear to say no. At least it was cooling down. The setting Harvest sun not quite as harsh as Torrid was. She wished she had time to shower, but she was running late as it was. The park Gus wanted to meet in was in neutral territory. They wouldn’t have to worry as much about prying eyes. The last several years had been rough. Neither of them were able to get their races to understand. They hadn’t meant to fall in love after all. They didn’t even know the sort of chaos it would bring.

When the park came into view, she wasn’t even sure what she was seeing. There were lights strung up over all the trees. They twinkled pale blues and yellows. An archway had been erected just inside the gate. Snap dragons flourished at its base, with lilac and trumpet vine weaving through the wooden spokes. She took a deep breath and held is as she stepped under the beautiful arch. There were candles and snap dragons everywhere. Vibrant colors made it all the more lovely by the twilight.

Randle stepped forward to pull her into a tight hug. Her cousin’s presence here explained having so many off season flowers looking so lovely. He held on a little longer than normal for fairies. When he stepped back his eyes were shining.

“You’re a very lucky woman, Issy. I’m always on your side,” he said softly as he led her over to a table she hadn’t seen before.

Cassidy trying to ask him what was going on, but he shook his head slightly and pulled out a chair. She sat down, looking wide eyed around the park. So much had gone into this.

Gus stood near the entrance of the park mostly shielded by a tree. The look of awe on Cassidy’s face made everything worth it. Without her cousin’s help, he wouldn’t have been able to create this for her. He watched Randle get her settled into a chair and slip out of the park. He took a deep breath and walked out from his hiding spot.

She was breathtaking as always. Her golden hair was piled on top of her head. She would say she looks like a wreck, but this was how she was the most beautiful to him. He ambled over to her, his smile portrayed more confidence than he felt.

“Gus… this is beautiful,” she said softly.

“I’m glad you think so, it looks like I’m off to a good start,” he replied. He dropped to one knee and took both of her hands in his. “The last few years with you have been incredible. Even with only stolen moments and secret dates, it’s been the greatest part of my life.”

“Oh Gus, I love you,” she breathed.

“I want all of my days to be spent with you. Run away with me Issy. Run away and affirm me.”

“It could never work. I love you deeply, but the fairies will never condone an affirmation.”

“It could. Randle has been helping me. We can slip out into the woods outside the city. It would take a few days, but we could make our way to Kadence. Randle found a witch that earned the attention of Raffe. She could help us.”

“Raffe? The gangster that owns almost all the docks in Hearth? How can anyone associated with him be of any meaningful help for us?”

“She has connections that could help, plus she already has a reputation for being bold and defiant.”

“I… is it really possible?” she asked tentatively.

“It is if you want it to be. Run away with me and make me the happiest man in existence.”

“Yes,” she laughed. “Yes, let’s do it! When can we leave?”

“Right now. Randle packed a bag for you and will meet us at the wall tonight.”

He pulled her close and kissed her softly, promising himself that he would always do right by her.

Tagging: @justanotherstarlitnight, and @silenciawrites 

If you want to be tagged/untagged let me know!

[spirit-science-blog]

Hey there, welcome back! Today we’re going to talk about everyone’s favorite Saturday morning Grandpa...or I guess Uncle would be more accurate...that’s right..we’re finally going to dive into the Sagely Wisdom of Uncle Iroh and the immense spiritual knowledge that he teaches the main characters….and us in the process...so sit back, grab a Tsungi horn, heat some Jasmine Tea, and one more thing before we get started, on the subject of Wisdom - we do a live event every full moon, every month called the Wisdom Moons. The next one is coming up soon! Use the link below to see how you can join our live event. I hope to see you there!

For those of you who haven’t seen the show, Iroh is the oldest main character that we follow actively through the series.... and is pretty much your Lao Tzu or Mystical Buddha kind of guy. He was a general of the Fire Nation and one of its greatest warriors, having the title “The Dragon of the West,” laying siege to the Earth Capital, but retired after his son Lu Ten was killed in action, and he became disillusioned with the war effort. When we first meet him though, Iroh is introduced as the uncle of Zuko, and acts as a father figure to him, as well as a moral compass, giving him great advice -which Zuko often ignores…..and accompanies him on his hunt for the Avatar, slowly teaching him to accept his true nature and become more in balance with himself.

Despite his fire nation origin, though.. he’s not a bad guy...in fact, he’s probably one of the beating moral hearts of the show, who -in stark contrast to Zuko, is easygoing, friendly, and dryly good-humored….let’s face it, aside from Sokka, he’s probably at the top of the list for most peoples favorite characters growing up. Exceptionally… when I’m old and grey, I want to be just like Iroh… and Gandalf… and Dumbledoor anyways right from episode 1, we see Iroh’s greatest virtue and wisdom...patience. Iroh doesn’t have it easy on the show, for, in the beginning, Zuko treats him pretty poorly, ignoring his advice and shouting at him a fair bit. Yet Iroh is there for him, no matter what, as he understands the importance of family and being there for the people who matter, undoubtedly coming from his son's loss.

As the series progressed and he got more screen time, we started to see his actions' real wisdom, but season 1 set his groundwork up as embodying patience, serenity, and mindfulness. Unlike most of the fire nation, he’s a man who sees beauty in the most superficial aspects of life, treating his self-imposed exile almost like an extended vacation to see the world. As Colin Mchannan points out...Iroh is a great man, sure, but what makes him truly wise and believable is his journey. He didn’t start as a mystical Buddha with life all figured out. He was broken….having lost the thing that mattered most to him -his child, and it defined him. The best part, though, and the ultimate lesson, is that Iroh let it define him in the best way. He could have been bitter and angry, but he instead chose to live the remainder of his life to the fullest in an attempt to avoid the mistakes and regrets from his earlier life….

In fact, in "Tales of Ba Sing Se" (one of the best episodes ever…), it’s suggested in that section where he sings Little Soldier Boy that some of that great optimism and generosity that he’s known so well for are a form of post-traumatic growth coming from the loss of his son. Like the waterbenders, he embraces the concept of flow and learns to move with the tide of life rather than stay stagnant and bitter.

Speaking of Waterbenders, this brings us to some of his best attributes that countless people have learned from…..his quotes...of everything, he’s probably best known for his words of wisdom as he freely advises most of the characters throughout the series. One passage, in particular, is often brought up as one of his best. When teaching Zuko in season 2 about lightning bending, Iroh explains that “It’s important to draw wisdom from many places. If we take it from only one place, it becomes rigid and stale.” Adhering to this philosophy eventually led him to develop a lightning bending -a technique never before seen, by studying the push and pull of water bending. Equally, he tries to convince Zuko that understanding Earth bending is just as important when he's fire turning to develop a real understanding of the element...which amazingly, Zuko then carries on to Aang during his training later on..

One of the best parts of Season 3 is when we learn that Iroh lied about killing the last Dragon to protect the ancient Dragon Masters Ren and Shaw, and even be their student. Through his compassion, he drove his firebending powers from vitality, heart, and life force rather than from rage as most of his contemporary firebenders did, thereby gaining a power none of them had.

For us, wisdom is essentially the same when applied to any aspect of life. Suppose you learn about something from only one source. In that case, you’ll pick up all the biases and influences from that source and never form your own opinion...but if instead, you look in different places for the inherent wisdom, you’ll end up a much more whole and balanced individual. I think Iroh’s insight here stems from his understanding of the four nations as balancers of each other. See, his nature and the course of his life have brought him to a philosophy that embraces peacefulness, harmony, and mutual understanding rather than conflict….but what’s more, it seems like he would much rather see the four nations live in mutual peace as opposed to single fire nation rule, as each one brings something unique to the table

While people often compare him to a Budhha like figure, I think a much better comparison is Budhai, the Chinese monk who’s often depicted as the fat or laughing Buddha, rather than Sidhurtta himself. Ironically, despite his carefree and detached attitude, he is something of a hedonist in his old age. He likes subtle pleasures, fancy tea, and seems to focus his life much more on relaxation and fun than he does on helping Zuko find Aang or engage in his nation’s nationalistic war. He often flirts with loads of girls in the series and is called handsome a couple of times! And he loves it….maybe he watched our recent episode on materialism and took it to heart…. Or maybe it’s a natural result of his earlier years conquesting, his soul is liberated from war, and all he wants now is to be jolly.

Ironically though, despite his focus on pleasure and relaxation, he does remark in season 1 that “the best tea tastes delicious whether it comes in a porcelain pot or a tin cup,” implying that it’s what’s nurtured inside that truly matters…..but he does accidentally poison himself with a flower in that episode too...sooo...you win some and lose some I guess.

The point is, like the kids of Avatar, he doesn’t take himself too seriously and takes the time to take “moments of quiet” in the face of a decision…..I was joking last time about him being a big kid. Still, the more I look at him, he kind of is…..and it’s excellent...while many of the series' notable characters were maturing throughout the show. Of course, there’s the 14-year-old warlord to boot, Iroh was already a "changed man" who already suffered tremendous loss and "matured" through that it…reminding us that “Failure is simply a chance to start over anew, this time only wiser.” Even when opening his tea shop, he points out that “There’s nothing wrong with a life of peace and prosperity,” advising Zuko to abandon his quest for honor….but even then, he never forces him because it has to be Zuko's decision to understand that on his own

Speaking of starting things, remember earlier how we explained that Iroh liked to draw wisdom from all the elements rather than just fire? A couple of fans have pointed out that his attitude towards tea is the perfect example of this. While Iroh’s love of tea is often played for laughs, there’s an underlying meaning and purpose -and to some extent, lesson, behind his passion for jasmine and ginseng tea that’s not often talked about.  

To make an outstanding cuppa tea, all four of the bending elements are required. You need clay for the teapots and cups or the leaves from the ground, the water for the substance, Fire to heat the Tea, and the air to blow on the hot tea to cool it so you can drink it (even if you leave it out to cool naturally, it would get cold and taste worse). If you take one element out, the tea is either impossible to make or worse without it.. Iroh knew this, just as he knew that the only way to defeat the Fire Nation was for all four elements to work together. When on the boat to Ba Sing Se, Iroh gets a cold cup of tea and heats it with fire breath to the perfect temperature -all the while accidentally revealing to Jet that he’s a fire bender…

Iroh learned several things by watching other bending tribes. He knew that understanding others was the only way to be whole. Tea, then, is a physical manifestation of these teachings. On the surface, Iroh’s love of tea could be viewed as nothing more than a simple character trait, but it also serves as a representation of his spirituality and calming nature. In the context of achieving harmony and balance among the four nations, it's a lesson on the value of tolerance, balance, and listening that Uncle Iroh passed on to Zuko. And while this theory is just Reddit headcanon, it's a deep and meaningful way to look at Iroh's love of tea in a new light….he didn’t enjoy any old cup, only one that was truly and fully balanced with all the elements working together in unison

But the beautiful thing about Iroh is that he also can stand for the intensity of the fiery element and knows precisely how and when to use it. He rarely exhibits such power; one example is when he yells at Zuko under Lake Laogai.

Play clip: It's time for you to look inward and start asking yourself the big question: who are you, and what do YOU want?!

And that’s when he’s delivering compassionate wisdom with intensity! He also liberates all of Ba Sing Se at the very end of the series, after a getting ripped in jail montage, and shows exactly why they called him the Dragon of the West. All in all, Iroh’s philosophy of flow is undoubtedly inspired by Taoist values and helps to bring profound spiritual wisdom to a younger audience. If you haven’t seen it yet, I would recommend wholeheartedly going and checking out the series...even just for him alone….I could have written this entire video made up of just his quotes, and it would be equally as great...so I think Iroh is a modern-day ascended master. Even his bending forms are influenced by Southern Shaolin, Dragon, and Form-intention styles of Kung-Fu, all of which match his personality pretty well.

Interestingly, Kaci Ferrell pointed out in reviews that after the season 2 episode of Legend of Korra where Iroh appeared to her in the spirit world, Korra became a much more likable character with the fans because she took Iroh’s wisdom on board…..even in death he’s bringing the fandom together! So with that, thanks so much for watching! We’ll leave a link to some of Iroh’s best quotes and snippets of wisdom below so you can check them out, but otherwise, totally go and watch ATLA cause there’s so much more wisdom hidden inside it...and always remember, above all else…….that being sick of tea is like being sick of breathing. Toodles!

Sources:

The Lost Scrolls: Fire, page 159 of The Lost Scrolls Collection.

Director: Ethan Spaulding; Writer: Elizabeth Welch Ehasz (April 7, 2006). "Return to Omashu." Avatar: The Last Airbender. Season 2. Episode 3

Ferrell, Kaci (November 9, 2013). "The Legend of Korra season 2 episode 10 review: A New Spiritual Age". Den of Geek.

McMahon, Colin (March 28, 2014). "The Wisdom to Be Learned from Uncle Iroh." The Red Rings of Redemption.

Director: Giancarlo Volpe; Writers: Michael Dante DiMartino, Bryan Konietzko (2006-09-15). "The Drill." Avatar: The Last Airbender. Season 2. Episode 13. Nickelodeon.

https://www.reddit.com/r/FanTheories/comments/gtuca1/avatar_the_last_airbender_irohs_love_for_making/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3

[faithfulnews]

Productivity Shouldn’t Be Your Pandemic Priority

Signs of Life content is created in partnership with American Awakening.

Early on in quarantine, our collective American panic took a strange swerve. Maybe you noticed. The initial slew of responses, whether from our employers, the influencer set or the inescapable brands were all focused on how we could keep busy, even if we couldn’t go anywhere. 

Maybe it’s not surprising that places like CNN and Forbes dropped articles with headlines like “How to Stay Productive During Quarantine.” A viral internet factoid reminded us all that Shakespeare wrote King Lear while he was in quarantine (“and what have you done?” hardly needed to be said out loud). One “motivational” message shamed the world by telling us all that if we don’t come out of quarantine with a new skill, more knowledge and a new side hustle “you never lacked time, you lacked discipline.” A widely mocked LA Times article even suggested everyone should stop wearing sweatpants and “dress like the adult you’re getting paid to be.” 

In any case, it seems that the American instinct with anxiety is “work through it.” We want to know our lives still have meaning on lockdown, and we don’t know how to separate meaning from work.  

Now, this isn’t all bad. This is America. We like to be productive, and our productivity has led to some real breakthroughs that have benefited the whole world. Even now, in pandemic season, examples of American creativity and ingenuity in our virtual offices can be pretty inspiring. 

But many (most?) Americans also know deep down that this workaholism comes at a price. The cost has always been there, nipping at the edges of our consciousness, but it’s much more apparent during a global crisis. If you were an alien watching this country right now, would you be impressed with how committed Americans are to keep up their professional pace in the middle of a crisis, or would you suspect that they have some sort of addiction to productivity? Would you think the reason they stay busy is that they don’t know how to slow down?

Being Led to Rest

Think about it this way. Around 1000 BC, King David wrote Psalm 23 — his most famous work and probably what most people think of when they hear the word Psalm. You how it begins: “The Lord is my Shepherd…” I’ve read or recited that psalm many hundreds of times over the years, but I recently noticed something I hadn’t observed before. Something that shows just how much David understood the human impulse to stay productive at all costs. 

David doesn’t say “You let me lie down in green pastures,” which would seem like the obvious word choice. He says “You make me lie down in green pastures.”  

Similarly, the Psalm doesn’t say “You’re with me beside quiet waters.” It says, “You lead me beside quiet waters.” 

Why does the shepherd—David’s word for God—“make” and “lead” the Psalmist to do things that any sane person would want to do? Did David not want rest, beauty and peace?

Well, no. Quite the opposite, actually.

While scholars in ancient Hebrew history aren’t certain what was happening in King David’s life at the time he wrote this psalm, what is known about his life, in general, is that he had tons of enemies, and many of them were members of his own family. For just one tragic example, his son Absalom started a civil war against his father. 

We also know that David spent a lot of his life on the run, either running from these enemies or looking for a fight. He may have been a king, but David’s life was busy and rough. In many psalms, he talks about being exhausted and demoralized. In one instance, he feels utterly hopeless and abandoned, even by God.

Maybe you can relate.

You’re not a king, and your enemies probably’ aren’t Philistine giants or even necessarily other people, but I believe most of us can relate to the sense of being overwhelmed, exhausted and demoralized – especially right now. Most of all, we can relate to the reality of needing someone to make us lie down in green pastures and lead us beside quiet waters. If we aren’t led to it, many of us will never do it. 

That’s not just my opinion. Research shows we’re not very good at finding those pastures/waters on a regular basis. Statistically, we are the most overworked nation on the planet.

●  At least 134 countries have laws setting the maximum length of the workweek; the U.S. does not. ●  In the U.S., 85.8 percent of males and 66.5 percent of females work more than 40 hours per week. ●  According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), “Americans work 137 more hours per year than Japanese workers, 260 more hours per year than British workers, and 499 more hours per year than French workers.” Again, I am very proud of the American work ethic and believe that our approach to work is a wonderful attribute, but it is fair to ask the question — maybe we take it just a bit too far? To put it strongly, there is something almost pathological about our need to work. 

That’s why I want to propose that there are three things we, as Americans, ignore that we could be re-learning this season to integrate into our normal routine. Let’s call them the R-words. 

Rest

In the Jewish Torah and the Christian Bible, Genesis 2 explains that on the seventh day of creation, God rested. The Hebrew word used in the Torah is menuchah which translates, simply, rest. It is from this passage that the Jewish tradition of Shabbat or Sabbath was born.

Gallup’s most recent poll found that Americans average about six hours a night these days, compared to nine hours back in 1910. Forbes contributor Neil Howe suggests our diminishing rest has been propelled by technologies like the light bulb and the Internet which allow us to work 24/7. We can work more, so we feel like we should work more. But can and should aren’t the same thing. 

Recreation 

Obviously, recreation can mean anything from tossing a frisbee to playing corn hole to SeaDooing on the lake, and there is nothing wrong with any of that. But our broad application of it has buried the deeper significance of recreation.

The original Latin word is recreare which translates: create again or renew. The first English use of the word was in reference to refreshing or curing a sick person. Recreation is fundamentally about re-creating ourselves through activity. It’s not just having fun (although it often is fun). It’s an act of creation. 

Recreation, when done well, teases our itch for a simpler, more meaningful life. It makes less become more, but only for a spell. We get a taste of less and we love it. Then more takes over again and we’re back where we started, longing for less.

Restoration 

While rest is a temporary break in the action—an eddy in the rushing river of life; and recreation is an act of temporarily re-creating ourselves and our circumstances; restoration is returning ourselves and our circumstances to their best form—to the way they are meant to be. 

It is easy to fall into anxiety, hopelessness, sadness and even anger when you consider the state of our country, and the world. We are in desperate need of more than rest and recreation. We need restoration. We need to strip away the superficial, extraneous and meaningless addiction to productivity for productivity’s sake in order to restore our most meaningful lives. We have to do our part and, if we can, help others do theirs. 

I don’t know when this season will be over. Restrictions may loosen and some people may start going back to their offices, but it’s clear that our future is going to be shaped by COVID-19 for a long time to come. But we as a country can be better prepared for what’s next if we’re willing to be led to rest, recreation and restoration.

If you like what you’re reading, check out the daily Signs of Life podcast by American Awakening. Now playing on the RELEVANT Podcast Network.

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[flightandsurvival]

To pass the time.

Let’s start with you: How are you?: I am feeling very under the weather. Yesterday afternoon I started to notice some post-nasal drip and by bedtime I had to chug nyquil to get to sleep because swallowing hurt me. Woke up to a tender throat, stuffy and runny nose, and a sinus headache... so things could be better, but they could also be worse. 

What motivates you to get up every day?: Sunlight. If there is no sun, there is no motivation and it’s the biggest struggle to roll myself out of bed. 

Do you have a true best friend?: I don’t have a “best friend” because I have a handful of best friends... whom I trust wholeheartedly. I think limiting my love to just one “best friend” would be a waste of my affections. 

Do you see yourself as a sensitive person?: Yes, absolutely. 

Have you been upset recently?: Nope. I’ve been really good lately. 

Do you still leave/receive voicemails?: Yes... I want to make sure that people know that I have called and that its not a huge emergency but I want to touch base. I don’t call others often though... 

Do you live in your hometown?: No. 

Are you a festive person? Do you enjoy holidays?: I’m not super festive, I both love and loathe holidays. I’ve got complicated relationships with all of my immediate family, with the exception of my dad. 

Did you/Will you attend college?: I attended Queens College and am enrolled in the University of New England presently for my masters. 

How many alarm clocks do you use?: My phone. 

Do you consider yourself to be an open-minded person?: Absolutely. 

Do you eat fruit?: All the time. 

What is your favorite subject to learn about?: Psychology, psychopathology, trauma. 

How many meals a day do you typically eat?: It depends... I often forget breakfast. 

Music, eh?

Have you seen any live shows?: Yes. 

Name three of your favorite bands/artists…: Lizzo, Demi Lovato, The Avett Brothers. 

How big of a role does music play in your life?: I am always listening to music. 

Can you play any instruments?: Nope. 

You’re feeling down - do you listen to sad music or happy? Both, either. 

If you’ve ever been to a concert, how old were you and who did you see?: I’ve seen NoName, All Time Low (more than once), We The Kings, Hey Monday, Underoath, LIGHTS, Lake Street Dive, Xavier Rudd, Trevor Hall, Highly Suspect, Ashlee Simpson, and a handful of others.  Do you prefer music to be meaningful and deep, or purely for dancing/fun?: Either. Depends on my mood.  Is there a song or artist that you secretly enjoy, but don’t want to enjoy?: Taylor Swift. The bish makes catchy music. 

If you could only listen to music from one decade, which would you choose?: 90′s. Has your parents taste in music in any way affected what you like?: Definitely. My dad has always been a downloader of music and movies, he would have a very eclectic selection and I had full access.  You’re looking for some new music - what’s your preferred way to discover?: Through the “other artists you may like” section of apple music or listening to different playlists.  Do you still own any CD’s/records/tapes?: Not on purpose.  Do you ever hear a new song on tv that you like and find it?: Yes.  Speaking of television… (look at that smooth transition!) Do you watch a lot of television? Whether that be shows, news, movies etc.: I watch a lot of netflix and hulu.  Do you watch the news?: No.  What about the weather channel?: No.  What’s your favorite holiday movie?: I’m not sure. Elf maybe.  What hooks you to a television show? Light and funny or really dark and intense.  How do you feel about adult cartoons?: They’re alright. Not my preferred genre.  Talk shows - boring or entertaining?: Can be entertaining when I’m bored out of my mind... but overall boring.  Do you prefer cable, satellite or streaming?: Streaming.  Have you come across any new shows you like this year?: The Act. Super fucked up, super intense, and super thought-provoking.  Do you still watch shows that you grew up watching?: No.  What about movies that you grew up with?: No.  Are you subscribed to any streaming services?: Hulu.  Reality shows - entertaining or horrifying?: Entertainingly horrifying. Vanderpump Rules is a must watch.  What is the first movie you ever saw in a cinema?: I don’t recall.  Let’s talk about what you don’t discuss at Sunday brunch Do you identify with any organized religion?: I would say I lean heavily toward Buddhism.  If so - is it how you were raised, or have you found your own?: I was raised without an ounce of religion discussed. I had friends who went to church but if they asked me what religion my family was I wouldn’t have known the answer. My mom grew up Jehovah's Witness and subsequently did not want to push religion on to her children in any way. My dad is super atheist and never directly discussed religion with me.  Do you think that marijuana should be legalized?: Absolutely. It’s less destructive than alcohol. It can be used for SO MANY things. Marijuana is good.  If so, would that be for medical use only, or recreational?: Both. Medical cards are expensive af and they have to be renewed every year. Pay 200+ every year for medical access (plus the cost of the weed) or just buy recreational without that 200+ yearly fee...  Pro-life or pro-choice?: Incredibly pro-choice. I do not know if I would get an abortion myself, I’ve never been in that spot, but I do know its not a single bit of my goddamn business if someone has an abortion. I am truly a supporter though, my sister had had two abortions and if she hadn’t those children would have been all sorts of fucked up because she was on all sort of drugs.  Have you ever protested or been on strike?: I have done Women’s marches and I also stood outside a planned parenthood to escort women into the clinic and shield them from the insane and really mean pro-life protesters.  Is gun control necessary or no?: That shouldn’t even be a question... do people get shot needlessly or no? Are you happy with the political state where you reside?: I am perfectly happy with Massachusetts and their political state (well, everything can improve in one way or another...). I am not, however, proud of the political state of my country. Our president is a huge baby and the people, in general, are so extremely divided and on really chaotic ends of the political spectrum right now.  Have you read the book 13 Reasons Why or watched the show?: Yes and yes.  Should shows like this be available to everyone or could it be a trigger?: I think that this isn’t an easy answer. I believe that the making it available for public consumption did a really good thing for society- shed light on suicide and all of the contributing factors as well as emphasizing how confusing and messy the lives of young people can get, regardless if we see it or not. However, it was also something that was triggering for some people and it did borderline romanticize suicide without really hitting home that if you kill yourself you don’t get to see how much others care and you don’t get to see how hard others will fight for you.  Okay, let’s simmer down. Back to happy things. Do you like animals?: Yes.  If so, do you have any pets?: Dog and cat.  What is your favorite day of the week and why?: I don’t have one really because I have a revolving schedule and classwork due regularly.  Do you have a favorite season?: Fall.  How do you enjoy nice scents? Uhh... breathing?  Do you live in a large city or small town?: Medium town.  Are you happy with that or would you like to change it?: I think it’s fine.  Do you have any children?: No human children.  Are there any colors that you think compliment you?: Orange, yellow, blue.  Do you enjoy cleaning or find it to be a chore?: I enjoy it for the most part.  What is your absolute favorite food?: Sushi. 

If you were any color, what would you be?: Lavender.  Do you spend a lot of time on social networks?: No, I have cut down immensely. I deleted FB and I limit myself to 2 hours per day.