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The Branches in the Sky, Our Hearts in the Moons

Alina
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The Branches in the Sky, Our Hearts in the Moons

The Thirteen Celtic Tree Signs
(Astrology originated from the Ogham calendar)

Birch (Dec 24-Jan 20)

The Achiever,

Birch individuals are the unstoppable signs. You are motivated, resilient and ambitious. You are natural-born leaders and can adapt to tough environments. As the first tree to grow after a fire, the Birch tree’s signs are always highly driven yet also contain a soft side that offers beauty and purity. Remember to chill for a moment, too, Birch!

Rowan (Jan 21-Feb 17)

The Thinker

Rowans are the philosophical minds of the group; your ideas are creative, and your presence shifts the room. If you happen to find yourself born under a rowan, you probably have a lot going on. You’re curious, insightful, and can seem detached or cold at times, but you are burning within from your passionate ideals. You are always thinking about life’s bigger questions and probably overthink a lot, too. Maybe don’t isolate yourself that much.

Ash (Feb 18-March 17)

The Enchanter

Ash signs are the free thinkers, the dreamers, the creatives and the intuitive ones that are naturally talented in the intersection of the arts. Your imaginative and enchanting personality draws people in towards you, and you are deeply intertwined with nature, spiritual connections and your inner circle. Ash sign can sometimes be so far off that they need to be reminded to stay grounded.

Alder (March 18-April 14)

The Trailblazer

Alder signs are natural pathfinders; they’re the first ones to try something new or charge into the unknown. You are confident, action-oriented, charming, and get along with almost everyone. Correction, you get along with everyone. You have strong self-faith and focus, don’t like wasting time and have boundless energy, but beware, Alder signs can burn out fast without some kind of relaxation.

Willow (April 15-May 12)

The Observer

Willow signs are the empaths. You are creative, intuitive and intelligent; you have a more realistic perspective of the situation, resulting in you being more patient, often standing as a natural healer offering support to those around you. Willows are full of potential, but they tend to hold themselves back due to fear. Like the tree, you bend, not break and adapt to life’s changes. Just remember not to overwhelm yourselves with other people’s emotional baggage.

Hawthorn (May 13-June 9)

The Illusionist

Hawthorn signs basically represent the quote, “never judge a book by its cover”; their external personalities and internal personalities can be quite different from each other. You are creative, dynamic, curious and can easily adapt to most life situations. They have fiery passions, but just don’t forget to embrace yourself instead of hiding behind a mask.

Oak (June 10-July 7)

The Stabilizer

Oak folks are born with a unique strength; they are the rock of tree astrology. You are nurturing, protective and generous. They are deeply connected to history, family and tradition, often stepping up as a mentor, crusader and a spokesperson for the underdog. You are optimistic and exude an easy confidence, but remember that your sturdy shoulder could shudder too.

Holly (July 8-August 4)

The Ruler

If you find yourself born under a Holly, you possess a regal status. You are noble, confident, ambitious, competitive, high-minded, and natural leaders who aren’t afraid to tackle bigger challenges. People look up to you and admire you as you skate through obstacles. A Holly could also be kind, affectionate and quite generous. However, make sure you don’t steamroll everyone else in your quest for success.

Hazel (August 5-September 1)

The Knower

Hazel signs are highly intelligent, organized and efficient. They have memories like steel traps and have a gift for subjects that call for analytical skills. You are natural scholars and teachers, always seeking out new knowledge or understanding. Although you are always aware of your facts, remember that it’s okay to make mistakes sometimes; perfectionism shouldn’t weigh you down.

Vine (September 2-September 29)

The Equalizer

Vine signs are unpredictable. You are full of contradictions and are often indecisive. You can see both stories’ opinions and empathize with them equally. Your ability lies within your gift to navigate life’s struggles with grace. Vine signs appreciate the finer things in life, such as food, wine, music and art. You have a great aesthetic sense, only don’t get too caught up in luxury.

Ivy (September 30-October 27)

The Survivor

Ivy individuals are tenacious; they can thrive in situations that most people are knocked down by. You are determined, compassionate, deeply intuitive, and loyal. You fight through the difficult challenges life handed you and have a giving nature, always ready to lend a helping hand. However, learning to trust their intuition to guide them through is something they are unsure of.

Reed (October 28-November 24)

The Inquisitor

Reed signs are the detectives; you dig deep inside to the real meaning and uncover the truth behind layers of distraction. They can easily be attracted to gossip and are easily curious, and interpretive. Reed signs often become journalists, historians, and archaeologists. Just keep in mind that not all secrets need to be uncovered.

Elder (November 24-December 23)

The Seeker

Elder tends to be freedom-loving and can be interpreted as a little wild. You love adventures and are outspoken, independent and a little bit rebellious. You are extroverted and think considerately about other people and genuinely try to help, which can sometimes be thwarted by your brutal honesty. You thrive on change, excitement and the thrill of new experiences, but remember you need balance to ground yourself.

Sources: 1, 2, 3

Red Moon – A Thrilling Science Fiction Novel

Sabarish M
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Red Moon – A Thrilling Science Fiction Novel

A novel is supposed to immerse the reader in the world of the story and have rich characters and plot. In this blog post, I will be sharing my experience reading one of my favourite novels, Red Moon, by Kim Stanley Robinson. It is a science fiction novel set in 2047, a future where China dominates the global landscape, and has rich characters and revolves around an interesting plot. I will also be sharing why I liked it and why you should read it too.

Basic Summary

Many nations have established colonies and laboratories on the Moon, with an overwhelming majority of Chinese presence. The main character, Fred Fredericks, is an American who works for a Swiss tech company and has been tasked to install a quantum communication system for the Chinese Lunar Authority.

However, after arriving, he is involved in an incident where Chang Yazu, a Chinese official, is poisoned and dies, leading to Fred being blamed and forced into hiding with Chan Qi, the daughter of the Chinese Finance Minister, who is a major figure in the growing rebellion movement in China. The story takes place during a period of political turmoil in China, where a power transition is underway amid a conflict between conservative authority and a rising rebellion movement, with many factions opposing each other, leading to intense internal fighting and conspiracy.

Millions of Chinese migrant workers and labourers, being exploited and feeling unrepresented by their government, want reform and change. While this is going on, the novel explores how Fred and Qi are sent back to Earth and back to the moon, facing various assassination attempts by many of these factions who oppose what Qi stands for along the way, forcing them to rely on allies and complex quantum technology to survive the conspiracy involving members of the highest level in the Chinese government. 

Why I Liked It

I liked this novel as it was amazing to read, and I really enjoyed learning about lots of new ideas and the significance of historical events, which this book was filled with. The author did an amazing job of immersing the reader into the experience, and by showing the story from different points of view, it was nice to see a broader picture rather than just seeing the main characters struggle to survive.

Robinson utilizes vivid imagery and incorporates poetry through the character Ta Shu, a former poet, to convey powerful messages. The story being set in 2047, the year Hong Kong is set to join mainland China, gave the novel many conflicts to explore, especially the struggles of Chinese migrant workers who are being significantly exploited with the Hukou system (where each citizen is tied to their birthplace and migrating to other places is illegal and if they do they will lose access to key services such as healthcare and labour safety laws), which is relevant today. 

Also, there were many rich and complex themes explored throughout this novel. Firstly, the idea of political reforms and social change is a core concept of this novel. Through Chan Qi and the rebellion caused by a billion people, the idea of how reform is slow, complicated and requires collective effort and motivation is shown.

This novel also expands on the idea of inequality and exploitation faced by millions of people and how it impacts their livelihood. Something I learned from this book about the world is that even when advanced technology and a new way of living emerge, core emotions such as defiance and rebellion will remain unchanged, as depicted in the text where Robinson compares the similarities of this rebellion with the revolution of the past. Also, this book taught me to appreciate different viewpoints, as seeing the story from multiple characters helped me understand the complex nature of conflicting motivations and enhanced my empathy.

NASA’s Comeback: Artemis 2 Brings Humans Back To Deep Space

Krupa P
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NASA’s Comeback: Artemis 2 Brings Humans Back To Deep Space

After more than 50 years, humans have once again ventured toward the Moon—and made it back safely. The crew of Artemis II, including astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, completed a historic 10-day mission that pushed human space exploration farther than ever before.

Throughout the mission, astronauts tested critical systems needed for future deep-space travel, including life support, manual spacecraft control, and emergency procedures. They also conducted scientific research on how the human body responds to space conditions like microgravity and radiation—key knowledge for longer missions in the future.

The crew captured over 7,000 images, including stunning views of the Moon, Earth, and even a solar eclipse from space. These observations will help scientists better understand the lunar surface, especially areas near the Moon’s south pole, where astronauts are expected to land in upcoming missions.

After splashing down safely in the Pacific Ocean and returning home, Artemis II marks a major milestone in NASA’s long-term goals. The mission proves that the technology, teamwork, and international partnerships are ready for the next step: landing humans on the Moon again.

With Artemis II complete, all eyes now turn to Artemis III—the mission that aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface and begin building a long-term human presence on the Moon, paving the way for future exploration of Mars.

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Why Youth Political Engangement Matters

Natania V
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Why Youth Political Engangement Matters

If you’re a young person in Calgary, politics might feel extremely distant, something simply happening in Ottawa or on the news, not in our daily lives. That perception misses a key reality. Many of the decisions shaping your future are being made right now, often at the local level, and often without enough youth voices in the room. 

Political engagement isn’t just about voting when you turn 18. It’s about understanding how systems work, advocating for issues that affect you, and recognizing that your perspective has real value, even before we can cast a ballot. 

Local Decisions, Real Impact. 

In a city like Calgary, municipal and provincial policies directly influence issues that matter deeply to youth: education funding, public transit, climate initiatives, mental health resources, and job opportunities. Whether it’s decisions about school infrastructure, youth programming, or environmental planning, these aren’t abstract policies; they shape your day-to-day experience.

When young people disengage, those decisions are made without considering their needs. When they engage, priorities shift.

Youth Perspectives Are Different and Necessary

Young people bring a unique lens to political conversations. You’re growing up in a world defined by rapid technological change, climate uncertainty, and evolving cultural identities. That perspective is not just “nice to have”, it’s essential for effective policymaking.

In Calgary specifically, youth often navigate complex intersections of identity, such as immigrant experiences, Indigenous reconciliation, and balancing tradition with modern Canadian culture. These lived experiences can inform more inclusive and forward-thinking policies, but only if they’re voiced.

Engagement Builds Agency, Not Just Awareness

There’s a common misconception that political engagement is about being “informed.” While knowledge matters, engagement is really about agency, which is the belief that your actions can influence outcomes.

That might look like:

  • Participating in student councils or youth advisory boards
  • Attending town halls or community consultations
  • Organizing or supporting local initiatives
  • Engaging in informed discussions, both online and offline

These actions build skills. Skills we build, like critical thinking, communication, and leadership, extend far beyond politics.

Calgary Needs Youth in the Conversation

Calgary is a rapidly evolving city. Economic transitions, climate policy debates, and urban development are all actively shaping its future. The question is: who gets to influence that future?

Historically, youth participation in formal politics has been lower than that of older demographics. That creates a structural imbalance where policies may skew toward the priorities of those who consistently show up.

Increasing youth engagement isn’t just beneficial, but it’s necessary for a representative system.

Overcoming Barriers to Engagement

It’s also important to acknowledge why many young people don’t engage:

  • Politics can feel inaccessible or overly complex
  • There’s a perception that individual voices don’t matter
  • Time constraints from school and extracurriculars
  • Lack of clear entry points into civic participation

Addressing these barriers requires both institutional change and individual initiative. Schools, organizations, and local governments need to create more accessible pathways, but youth also need to take the step to participate when those opportunities arise.

It Starts Small

You don’t need to run for office to be politically engaged. It starts with curiosity. It start with asking questions, staying informed, and speaking up when something matters to you.

In a city like Calgary, where community networks are strong and opportunities for involvement exist, even small actions can have a tangible impact.

The bottom line: political engagement isn’t something you grow into later. It’s something you build now, and Calgary’s future will reflect whether youth choose to be part of that process.

Protect the Planet

Soham C
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Protect the Planet

Did you know that the average Canadian creates about 2.33 kg of waste per year? That adds up to 851 kilograms of waste per year. However, there are multiple ways to reduce trash in our lives. Many people are aware of the three Rs. The three Rs are: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.

Reduce means to make less of something. We can reduce the amount of waste we create. One simple way is to buy items in bulk. If you need 10 packets of bread, don’t buy every packet separately; buy them in bundles. That will save you money and be good for the environment.

Reuse means to use something more than once. We can reuse many things, including bags, bottles, and clothes. Instead of buying plastic bottles, we can buy a metal bottle. Metal bottles can be used many times, and they are very helpful because they don’t break when they drop. Plastic bags are not good for the environment, and they take thousands of years to decompose and are a one-time use. Instead of using plastic bags, we can use cloth bags. Cloth bags are strong, reusable, and good for the environment. Lastly, many people throw away their old clothes because they don’t fit or they are out of style. Instead of throwing clothes away, you can donate them or you can hand them down. Handing down clothes is much better than throwing them away. That saves the cloth and helps another person.

Recycle means to make something new out of something old. There are many things we can recycle to make the Earth a better place. We can recycle cans, plastic bottles, paper, cardboard, and many other things. Humans should only recycle things if they can not be reused. Recycling helps us conserve our natural resources, such as timber, water, and minerals. Recycling also helps us reduce carbon dioxide in the world and keep our water and planet cleaner. Waste that would go to landfills is being recycled.

In conclusion, the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle are all very important in our lives. We should always try to apply these things in our lives. If we do not use these things, then the world will fill up with garbage very fast. We should do these things because they save resources and they help make old things into new things. Together, we all should contribute to saving the world and conserving its resources.

 

Sources: 1, 2, 3

 

 

The Pressure to Perform: Breaking Free From Burnout

Krupa P
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The Pressure to Perform: Breaking Free From Burnout

Academic burnout is a real issue, but it isn’t impossible to manage if you take the right steps. I had to step back for a bit and figure out what I was doing wrong and what caused my stress, then make tweaks where I could. Throughout the year, I defeated my burnout step by step by getting help and advice from friends and family, because burnout isn’t always something you can get rid of alone.

1. Make Time for Enjoyable Activities

Setting aside time in my schedule for activities I genuinely enjoy was one of the main things that reduced my burnout. Whether it was hanging out with friends, reading a book, listening to music, or just relaxing, having something to look forward to can boost your mood and make school feel less overwhelming. It also helped recharge my energy, so when you return to your schoolwork, you feel more focused and motivated instead of drained. Even small breaks for things you love can make a big difference in preventing burnout.

2. Plenty of Exercise

I tried to make an effort to stay active daily, whether it was going on a short walk or run or playing sports. Physical activity boosted my energy levels after a long day of school and cleared my mind. Along with exercise, staying hydrated and eating a balanced meal always support your body and mind. Taking care of my physical health has always made it much easier for me to stay focused and motivated when dealing with school stress.

3.Enjoy Your Day Offs

My weekends never felt like days off because I always ended up doing schoolwork. Now I always try to organize my schedule so that I have at least one full day to rest and recover. Stepping away from assignments and studying on that one full rest day helped me focus better during the rest of the week. Coming back to work after a proper break will feel refreshing and give you much more ability to focus.

4. Avoid Procrastination

When I felt overwhelmed, it was always tempting to delay assignments and projects. But in the end, I was always piled up with homework and assignments due the day before. These always led to late-night study sessions,

 

How Teenage Culture is being Erased

Ava
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How Teenage Culture is being Erased

Teenage-hood is a unique part of life. Positioned between childhood and adulthood, it is an important phase for self expression. Additionally, between different decades, teenage culture has evolved and changed. However, in today’s world, the line between childhood and adulthood has become blurred, leaving no space for unique teenage identity’s to grow.

The “Adultification” of teenagers

With social media platforms now being a mix of adults, teens, and pre-teens, adolescents are increasingly exposed to adult influencer and content tailored to them. This type of exposure to adults lifestyle, products, and mannerisms, can lead to teenagers being rushed to maturation and encouraged to copy certain aspects as-well.

Decline of Third Places

A major shift among teenagers is their lack of in-person interactions. With the decline of third places, such as arcades and social gatherings, especially those catered towards teens, most interactions have moved online. While online communication provides ease, it takes away from environments where teens can socially experiment and engage with others.

Increased Pressure

With higher academic expectations, global awareness, and constant access to others, teenagers nowadays face more levels of stress and pressure. Easier access to social media also exposes teens to unrealistic beauty, lifestyle, and success standards. Such contributions often makes adolescents feel like they aren’t doing enough, or  that they’re failing at a life they haven’t even begun. All of these factors leave almost no room for the spontaneity and rebellion that once went hand to hand with teenage-hood.

 

Ozempic, Wegovy, and GLP1s: Going Generic?

Jeanne Y
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Ozempic, Wegovy, and GLP1s: Going Generic?

Disclaimer: This post is for entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice and/or substitute advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a medical professional. I cannot guarantee that the content of the post is correct or updated. Consult a medical professional for all medical advice and before making the decision to begin taking new drugs.

Semaglutides, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy has been a hot topic the last couple of years. As an increasing number of celebrities and influencers began to use the drug that’s meant to help manage obesity and type 2 diabetes, it’s no wonder that the drug has become controversial.

GLP1s, Wegovy, and Ozempic: What’s the Difference?

GLP1 – Glucagon-like Peptide-1

…is a hormone that is naturally released after your body feels full. It signals satiety to your brain, slows down your digestion so that your digestive system has enough time to absorb nutrients, and helps manage blood sugar.

In Bio 30, we learn that when there’s food in the stomach, it stretches (like an elastic bag). This stretching activates mechanoreceptors, which are receptors that respond to movement. This signals fullness to your intestinal cells, which will then release GLP1s.

But Ozempic and Wegovy are not pill versions of the hormone. So what are they?

Semaglutides: Ozempic and Wegovy

Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutides, which are molecules that imitate the GLP1 hormone. The difference is simply that Wegovy contains a higher dosage that Ozempic does.

Wegovy is typically prescribed for weight loss, while Ozempic is used for type 2 diabetes.

Going Generic

From a medical standpoint, the drug has been fairly effective in helping patients manage weight loss and blood sugar. Canada is the only country where the patent for Wegovy has an expiration date, which means that soon, generic versions of the weight loss drug can soon come out. So what does this mean for Canadians?

Cost

Generic means that other companies create pharmaceutically identical versions of the drug to sell. Because these secondary companies don’t have to do as much research, testing, and proving as the private company did, costs can be lowered. This is incredibly important, as most insurance companies do not cover insurance costs of obesity drugs.

Going generic means that the cost of the drug will be significantly lowered, which makes the drug far more accessible to lower income individuals. It’s estimated that generic brands could be 35% lower than brand-name semaglutides.

Timeline

Generic versions are predicted to hit shelves in mid to late 2026, which means that millions more Canadians who are unable to afford the drug will soon be able to get the medication that they need.

Sources: 1 ,2 ,3 ,4 ,5, 6

Healthy Habits That Aren’t Actually Healthy (But Everyone Acts Like They Are)

Elizabeth A
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Healthy Habits That Aren’t Actually Healthy (But Everyone Acts Like They Are)

I think we’ve reached a point where “being healthy” is less about how you feel and more about how your life looks from the outside.

Like if you wake up early, go to the gym, eat “clean,” and stay consistent, you’re automatically doing something right. And if you don’t… it kind of feels like you’re falling behind.

But the weird part is that some of these “healthy habits” aren’t actually making people feel better. They just look like they should.

 

1. When being disciplined starts feeling like pressure

There’s nothing wrong with having discipline. It’s good to have routines and goals.

But there’s a difference between choosing to do something and feeling like you have to.

If missing one workout stresses you out, or eating something different makes you feel guilty for the rest of the day, that’s not really balance. That’s pressure.

And pressure doesn’t suddenly become healthy just because it’s coming from a “good” habit.

 

2. “Clean eating” that’s basically just not eating enough

A lot of the “healthy eating” content online looks fine until you actually think about it for a second.

It’s always super controlled. Small portions, low-calorie everything, nothing that really fills you up. But it’s labeled as clean, so it feels like the goal.

No one says it directly, but there’s this idea that the less you eat, the better you’re doing.

And that just… isn’t true.

Your body needs food. Not the aesthetic version of it, actual food.

 

3. Working out because you feel like you owe it

There’s a big difference between working out because it makes you feel good and working out because you feel like you need to earn something.

Like earning your food, or making up for a “bad” day, or just proving to yourself that you’re still disciplined.

At that point, it stops being about health. It’s more like you’re trying to avoid feeling guilty.

And that’s not a great reason to build a habit around.

 

4. Routines that look perfect but don’t feel right

You can copy someone’s entire routine and still feel off.

Wake up early, follow all the steps, stay productive… and somehow still feel tired or unmotivated or just not into it.

That’s because routines aren’t one-size-fits-all, even if social media makes it seem like they are.

Just because something looks like the “right” way to live doesn’t mean it actually works for you.

 

5. The idea that healthy has to be hard

I feel like a lot of this comes down to one belief: if it’s not hard, it doesn’t count.

So people push themselves to do more, be stricter, stay more consistent, even when they’re already tired.

But being healthy isn’t supposed to feel like you’re constantly trying to keep up with your own life.

If everything feels exhausting all the time, something’s off.

 

So what actually is healthy then

It’s probably less impressive than what you see online.

It’s eating enough without overthinking it.
Moving your body in ways you don’t hate.
Taking breaks without feeling guilty.
Having habits that fit into your life instead of taking it over.

It’s not perfect. It’s not aesthetic. But it’s real.

 

TL;DR

Not everything labeled as “healthy” is actually helping you.

Sometimes it’s just a nicer version of pressure. And it’s easy to fall into because it looks like self-improvement.

But if something is making you more stressed, more tired, or more focused on doing everything “right,” it’s worth questioning.

Because a habit can look healthy and still not be good for you.

And you’re allowed to choose what actually feels better, even if it doesn’t look as put together.

Why Engineering Is More Creative Than You Think

Vasundhara Joshi
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Why Engineering Is More Creative Than You Think

Why Engineering Is More Creative Than You Think

When people hear the word engineering, they usually think of math, formulas, and strict rules. It often gets labeled as a logical or technical field, while creativity is associated more with art, music, or writing. But that idea is pretty misleading. Engineering is actually one of the most creative things you can do.

Creativity is not just about painting or designing something that looks nice. It is really about solving problems in new ways. That is basically what engineering is. Engineers are constantly asking questions like how can we make this better, safer, faster, cheaper, or more useful. There is rarely just one answer, which means there is a lot of room for imagination and new ideas.

One thing that makes engineering even more interesting is that it comes with limits. You cannot just build anything you want. You have to work with budgets, materials, time, and the laws of physics. Instead of holding creativity back, those limits actually push it further. When you cannot rely on unlimited resources, you have to think more carefully and come up with smarter solutions. A lot of innovation happens because of these restrictions.

Engineering also mixes imagination with logic in a really unique way. You have to understand how things work, use data, and follow scientific principles, but you also have to picture something that does not exist yet. Whether it is designing a medical device, a bridge, or a wearable technology product, you are always thinking about how real people will use it and what problems it will solve. That combination of technical thinking and human understanding is what makes engineering creative.

A big part of modern engineering today is environmental stewardship, which shows creativity in a different way. Engineers are now expected to think about how their designs affect the planet. That means creating things like renewable energy systems, more efficient transportation, biodegradable materials, and ways to reduce waste. It is not just about building something that works anymore. It is about building something that does not harm the future. This takes creativity because you are constantly trying to balance innovation with responsibility for the environment.

Another important part of engineering is failure. Things do not work the first time, and that is normal. Prototypes break, ideas fail, and tests do not always go as planned. But each failure helps move things forward. You learn what does not work and use that to improve your design. In a way, engineering is creative because it is always evolving.

At the end of the day, engineering is not just about equations or machines. It is about ideas. It is about taking something that does not exist and figuring out how to bring it into the real world in a useful and responsible way. That takes a lot more creativity than people usually realize.

Timeless Literature: Do Books Ever Expire?

Nova Astrov
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Timeless Literature: Do Books Ever Expire?

 

Given the many conflicts our world faces politically today, staying informed about current affairs is more important than ever. These events shape our global landscape, influence our communities, and ultimately affect us too. But it’s also understandable why so many young people feel passive or disconnected from the media they consume. It can be overwhelming to witness tragedy after tragedy and feel powerless to change any of it.
In moments like these, maintaining empathy becomes essential. It requires us to step outside our own experiences and imagine the lives of those who don’t have the privilege of safety, stability, or peace. Literature has always b

Photo by enrico bet on Unsplash

een one of the most powerful ways to do this. Stories allow us to see through someone else’s eyes — to feel their fear, their hope, their loss, and their resilience. The following books are timeless examples of how war impacts civilians, families, and entire generations.

The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
The Poppy War follows Rin, a war orphan who earns her way into an elite military academy in a nation on the brink of conflict. As she rises through the ranks, she discovers both the brutality of war and the terrifying power within herself. The novel blends historical events inspired by the Second Sino-Japanese War with fantasy elements, but its emotional core is painfully real. It forces readers to confront how war dehumanizes entire populations and how trauma shapes the next generation. Through Rin’s journey, we’re reminded that behind every conflict are ordinary people trying to survive forces far bigger than themselves.

Photo by HamZa NOUASRIA on Unsplash

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Set in Nazi Germany and narrated by Death, The Book Thief tells the story of Liesel, a young girl who finds comfort in stolen books during one of the darkest periods in history. As her foster family hides a Jewish man in their basement, Liesel learns firsthand how war fractures communities and tests the limits of human compassion. The novel highlights the quiet, everyday acts of resistance that civilians engage in — not through violence, but through kindness, storytelling, and courage. It’s a powerful reminder that even in times of war, humanity persists in small but meaningful ways.

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
The Kite Runner follows Amir and Hassan, two boys growing up in Afghanistan before the Soviet invasion. Their friendship is shaped by class, culture, and betrayal — and later, by the devastation of war. As Afghanistan falls into decades of conflict, the novel shows how violence uproots families, reshapes identities, and leaves emotional scars that last a lifetime. Hosseini’s

Photo by Agnieszka Ziomek on Unsplash

storytelling brings readers into the intimate, personal side of war: the loss of home, the weight of guilt, and the longing for redemption. It’s a reminder that behind every headline about conflict are real people whose lives are forever changed.

Always remember, it is a privilege to live the life that we do. Peace and stability should be a right for every nation, but the reality is that not every country is able to provide it. By reading stories like these, and by choosing to stay empathetic, we honor the experiences of those who cannot look away from conflict because they are living it. (Before reading any of these books, please make sure to check for any TW’s!)
sources: 1, 2, 3

Falling in Our Dreams?

Daniella
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Falling in Our Dreams?

 

Out of nowhere, you start falling. Your stomach flips, your body jerks, and you wake-up just before you think you’re going to hit the ground.

Falling is one of the most common (and perhaps one of the most physical) dreams to have. But what’s actually going on?

 

The idea of being ‘dropped’

One of the stranger (but oddly persistent) theories is that falling dreams aren’t entirely internal. You’ll sometimes hear versions of something like an angel holding you, then accidentally dropping you. In more mystical interpretations, people take that literally: an unseen presence or external force, something beyond you that loses its grip. 

Obviously, there’s no real evidence behind this. But the reason this idea sticks with so many people is because of how the dream feels. It wasn’t your decision, but something that happened to you.

 

Losing your soul?

Another theory leans spiritual. Some believe that when you fall asleep, your consciousness (or soul) drifts, and the falling sensation is what happens when it snaps back a little too quickly. Again, not scientifically grounded, but it can possibly explain the sudden return to your body when you wake up.

 

An evolutionary panic response

A more grounded (but still theoretical) idea is that falling dreams are tied to survival instincts. Early humans who were aware of heights, and reacted quickly to losing balance, were more likely to survive. So your brain may be wired to treat falling as an immediate emergency, even if it’s in a dream. So when your brain senses instability, even symbolically, it triggers a reaction to ‘survive’.

 

The psychological read: losing your footing

The most common interpretation is that falling dreams tend to happen when something in your life feels uncertain or out of your control. You could have a one-off dream of falling simply because you went hiking near a cliff or just rolled too close to the edge of your bed, but dreaming of falling could mean you feel insecure, inadequate, anxious, or overwhelmed, just to name a few.

Being pushed off a cliff could mean you don’t feel secure with others, while tripping could be a sign of lacking self-confidence. Parachuting out of an airplane or taking a graceful dive could be letting go of something negative, or setting yourself free.

 

Why we never hit the ground

Just as you’re about to hit the ground, your legs jerk, and you wake up. Hypnic jerks are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that usually occur just as you’re falling asleep. Though the exact cause isn’t clear, one symptom of a hypnic jerk is the sensation of falling.

Sometimes, there can be an overlap between hypnic jerks and dreams about falling (which probably has more to do with your body falling asleep than your mind trying to tell you something). 

 

Most dreams fade immediately, while falling dreams are often short, sharp, and physical (and yet we remember them). The drop. The loss of control.  Falling in the air…and then you’re awake before you ever find out how it ends.

 

Sources:

Understanding Of P.T.S.D. Better

Khanh Linh
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Understanding Of P.T.S.D. Better

Many people go through difficult or frightening experiences in life. Sometimes these experiences can affect a person’s mental health for a long time. One condition that can happen after a traumatic event is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

What is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can happen after someone experiences or witnesses a very scary, dangerous, or shocking event.

Examples of traumatic events include:

  • Car accidents

  • Physical assault

  • War or combat

  • Natural disasters like floods or earthquakes

  • Sexual violence

  • Seeing someone seriously injured or killed

After a traumatic event, it is normal to feel scared, stressed, or sad. However, if these feelings last for many months and start to affect a person’s daily life, it may be PTSD.

Common Symptoms of PTSD

People with PTSD may experience different kinds of symptoms. These symptoms can appear within a few months after the event, but sometimes they appear years later.

1. Intrusive Memories

This means the traumatic event keeps coming back into a person’s mind.

Examples include:

  • Unwanted memories about the event

  • Flashbacks (feeling like the event is happening again)

  • Nightmares about the trauma

  • Strong emotional reactions when reminded of the event

2. Avoidance

Some people try to avoid anything that reminds them of the trauma.

For example:

  • Avoid talking or thinking about the event

  • Stay away from certain places, people, or activities

3. Negative Changes in Thoughts and Feelings

PTSD can change how a person thinks and feels.

Some signs include:

  • Feeling guilty, ashamed, or angry

  • Having negative thoughts about themselves or others

  • Feeling disconnected from family or friends

  • Losing interest in activities they once enjoyed

  • Feeling emotionally numb

4. Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions

PTSD can also affect a person’s body and behaviour.

Examples include:

  • Being easily startled or always feeling alert

  • Difficulty sleeping

  • Trouble concentrating

  • Angry outbursts or irritability

  • Fast heartbeat, sweating, or shaking when stressed

What Causes PTSD?

PTSD develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. However, not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD.

Several factors can increase the risk, including:

  • Experiencing severe or repeated trauma

  • Having little support from family or friends

  • Having previous mental health challenges

  • Feeling guilt or shame related to the event

Why Support is Important

Support from others plays a big role in recovery. Talking with trusted people can help someone process their feelings and begin healing.

Helpful support may include:

  • Friends and family

  • Mental health counsellors or therapists

  • Doctors or psychiatrists

  • Community organizations

  • Religious or spiritual leaders

Professional therapy and counselling are often very effective in helping people manage PTSD symptoms.

Recovery is Possible

Many people recover from PTSD with time and proper support. Some people recover within several months, while others may need longer treatment.

The important thing to remember is that help is available, and no one has to face trauma alone.

If you or someone you know is struggling after a traumatic experience, talking to a trusted adult, counsellor, or mental health professional can be the first step toward healing.

Source: [1], [2], [3]

Finding Hope in Darkness – A Review of All the Light We Cannot See

Sabarish M
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Finding Hope in Darkness – A Review of All the Light We Cannot See

A good novel is supposed to immerse the reader in the world of the story and have rich characters and plot. In this blog post, I will be sharing my experience reading one of my favourite novels, All the Light We Cannot See, by Anthony Doerr. It is a historical fiction novel set predominantly during the time period of World War II in Europe, and revolves around rich characters and an interesting plot. I will also explain why I really enjoyed this book and why I recommend that you read this amazing piece of writing.

Basic Summary

The story revolves around the two main characters: Marie-Laure LeBlanc and Werner Pfennig. Marie-Laure is a French girl living in Paris, whose father works as a locksmith at the Museum of Natural History. When she becomes blind, her father builds her a model of their neighbourhood, and she learns to navigate by touch. When German forces occupy Paris, Marie-Laure and her father flee to Saint-Malo.

Werner, roughly in the same age group as Marie-Laure, is an orphan who grows up in a German mining town with a passion for radios and problem-solving. Werner’s intelligence earns him a spot at the National Political Institute of Education, a prestigious military academy where he confronts brutality. In 1944, Werner’s mission brought him to Saint-Malo during its intense bombardment from both sides. Werner encounters Marie-Laure by tracking her radio broadcasts and chooses to protect her from dangerous threats.

Why I Liked It

I loved this novel as it was a wonderful experience to read and has an amazing plot and well-developed characters. Anthony Doerr did an excellent job of immersing the reader into the world of the story and keeping the novel engaging throughout. By portraying the story from different perspectives of Marie-Laure and Werner, Doerr vividly presents the various aspects of a complex war and how it impacts people from unique backgrounds and experiences. The alternating nature of the points of view of characters in this novel adds a layer of suspense to the plot and shows the unifying message of the shared humanity of both sides of a war, and builds empathy.

Another major reason I rate this novel very highly is that the plot is filled with rich and vivid imagery, making the novel a page-turner on various occasions. Doerr’s use of alternating time periods from the past and present builds suspense and sparks curiosity in the reader, until everything finally locks into place at the end. The novel, being slower paced for the majority of the story, allowed for depth in the plot and character development. The short chapters, alternating perspectives and time periods also made the overall reading experience very engaging and made me lose track of time when reading.

Themes It Explored

There were many rich and complex themes explored throughout All the Light We Cannot See. The novel explores the themes of hope and resilience by depicting its main characters finding light in dark moments through stories, radios and kindness. An example of resilience is Marie-Laure. Despite her blindness and young age, she is able to handle the trauma of war effectively, and her courage and curiosity aid her.

From this novel, I am taking away the idea of how even small acts of kindness can create large impacts on the lives of others, by providing hope in a challenging situation. I also learned that even the most disastrous situations can have a glimmer of hope and light, which was in the form of radios in the novel.

I learned how humans are capable of both extreme cruelty and kindness, and that empathy and open-mindedness is key. I also learned the moblike mentality of humans and the natural desire to blend in with the crowd, and how it is important to act with our conscience and preserve our convictions at all costs.

Overall, this book contains insightful themes, and I have taken many ideas and learned lots about the world around me. Even if most of this book takes place in the past, all of the themes present are still relevant, and everyone can learn something from it.

Movie Trope Analysis – The Tortured Talent

Spencer
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Movie Trope Analysis – The Tortured Talent

The Tortured Talent

The portrayal of artfulness and passion is not anything new in cinema. The pursuit of greatness has always been an incredibly important aspect of storytelling, and one that has many variants in its portrayal. However, in the 21st century, the portrayal of achievement is seen as a divisive factor and looks into its detrimental implications on the main protagonist. 

Previous films, including Rocky, Chariots of Fire, etc., all present achievement as a generally positive factor that influences the growth of the protagonist. However, what if achievement were instead enabling the individual to gain more stereotypically negative characteristics? Sacrificing their morality for recognition. This is where films such as Whiplash, black-swan, and even Marty Supreme come in, when an individual prioritizes their perceived success over all else. 

The obsession with perfection, the main characters often exhibit a drive that works to harm them in the process. There grows an immense distance between them and their most important relationships, for instance, a mother-and-son relationship. 

These stories make us question the validity of obsession and at what point our passion is harming our overall happiness. This trope goes far beyond just modern media. It can be argued that Van Gogh and Virginia Woolf can also be considered tortured geniuses or artists. 

The issue with these portrayals in the media and the immortalization of attributes is that individuals feed into these characters’ backbreaking dedication instead of recognizing how their obsession causes their downfall. In Whiplash, our main character is highly stressed throughout the film and deals with abuse daily, but people, instead of viewing him as a cautionary tale, idolize him. This is similar to Marty Supreme, who is a cruel and selfish character. However, what you see on social media are edits of him and admiration of his mindset. This mindset, which serves to distance him from others and put others in harm’s way. This is in no way desirable. 

Overall, it is incredibly important to recognize how these movies enable new perspectives on achievement. The media needs to respond in a way that doesn’t diminish the intended impact of these movies. These films should not be glorified, and looking at them in only a positive light does not help us understand the complexities of human success. 

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