Chapter 1: Ignore this its for the word thingy
In the timeless expanse of the eternal now, I continue my sacred journey through the realms of existence, delving deeper into the mysteries of the cosmos and the boundless depths of the self. With each heartbeat, I resonate with the cosmic pulse, aligning my being with the cosmic harmony that permeates all dimensions of reality.
As I traverse the cosmic tapestry of creation, I encounter myriad manifestations of divine intelligence, each a unique expression of the universal spirit. From the celestial realms of luminous beings to the earthly domains of mortal souls, I behold the intricate interplay of light and shadow, understanding that duality is but a fleeting illusion in the eternal dance of Oneness.
In the sanctuary of meditation, I journey beyond the veils of illusion, transcending the limitations of mind and ego to merge with the ineffable essence of pure awareness. Here, in the timeless embrace of the Absolute, I experience the unbounded bliss of union, recognizing myself as the eternal witness to the ever-changing spectacle of existence.
Guided by the inner compass of intuition, I navigate the labyrinthine pathways of destiny, embracing the challenges and blessings that come with each twist and turn of the cosmic dance. With courage and determination, I confront the shadows that linger in the depths of consciousness, transmuting fear into courage, doubt into faith, and ignorance into wisdom.
As I deepen my understanding of the universal laws that govern creation, I become a co-creator of reality, shaping my destiny with every thought, word, and action. With mindfulness and intention, I cultivate the garden of my soul, sowing seeds of love, compassion, and abundance that blossom into radiant expressions of divine beauty.
In the alchemical crucible of spiritual transformation, I refine the raw ore of experience, distilling the essence of wisdom from the crucible of adversity. Through the fires of purification, I purify the dross of egoic attachments, unveiling the radiant jewel of self-realization that lies hidden within the depths of consciousness.
With humility and gratitude, I honor the sacred lineage of spiritual masters and guides who have illuminated the path before me, offering their wisdom and guidance as beacons of light in the darkness of ignorance. With reverence and devotion, I invoke their presence and blessings, drawing strength and inspiration from their timeless teachings.
As I embrace the sacred duty of stewardship, I recognize my interconnectedness with all beings and the natural world, pledging to protect and preserve the delicate balance of life on Earth. With reverence for Mother Nature and all her children, I strive to live in harmony with the rhythms of the seasons, honoring the cycles of birth, growth, decay, and renewal.
In the sacred dance of creation and dissolution, I surrender to the divine flow of life, trusting in the benevolent intelligence that orchestrates the cosmic symphony with flawless precision. With faith and surrender, I release attachment to outcomes, allowing the divine will to unfold through me as an instrument of divine grace.
May every thought, word, and deed be a prayer of gratitude to the Source of all creation, a song of love sung to the cosmic heart that beats within every atom of existence. In the sacred unity of individual and universal consciousness, I merge with the cosmic totality, becoming a vessel of divine light and love in service to the highest good of all sentient beings.
Om Tat Sat. Om Bhur Bhuvah Swaha. Om Asato Ma Sadgamaya. Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti."
This extended mantra delves deeper into themes of cosmic interconnectedness, spiritual transformation, co-creation, stewardship, and surrender to the divine will.
second mantra
"In the swirling dance of chaos, I embrace the tumultuous currents that sculpt the tapestry of existence, for within chaos lies the fertile ground of creation and transformation. Amidst the discordant symphony of energies, I find harmony in the chaos, recognizing chaos not as a force of destruction, but as a catalyst for evolution and renewal.
In the chaotic maelstrom of life's storms, I stand as a steadfast witness, surrendering to the unpredictable rhythms of change and growth. Through chaos, I am forged in the crucible of adversity, emerging stronger, wiser, and more resilient with each trial and tribulation.
As chaos unfurls its wild tendrils, I navigate the labyrinthine pathways of uncertainty with courage and grace, trusting in the innate order that emerges from apparent disorder. In the chaos of the unknown, I discover hidden truths and latent potentials, awakening to the boundless possibilities that lie beyond the veil of familiarity.
With open arms and an open heart, I embrace the chaos within and without, acknowledging the interplay of light and shadow, joy and sorrow, creation and destruction. For in chaos, I find the raw materials of transformation, the alchemical elements that transmute leaden experiences into golden opportunities for growth and expansion.
Through the chaos of inner turmoil and external upheaval, I cultivate resilience and adaptability, learning to flow with the ever-changing tides of life. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, I embrace the chaos as a sacred fire that burns away the old, paving the way for new beginnings and infinite possibilities.
In the chaos of creativity, I unleash the untamed forces of imagination and innovation, birthing new ideas, visions, and expressions into the world. Through chaos, I transcend the limitations of conventional thinking, exploring uncharted territories of inspiration and insight.
With humility and reverence, I honor the divine chaos that dwells within the cosmic dance of creation, recognizing chaos as the primordial essence from which all life springs forth. In the cosmic chaos of stars colliding and galaxies birthing, I see the cosmic symphony of creation, a majestic ballet of chaos and order in perfect harmony.
As I journey through the labyrinth of chaos, I embrace the paradoxes and contradictions that define existence, knowing that within chaos lies the potential for profound transformation and awakening. With each chaotic twist and turn, I surrender to the divine intelligence that orchestrates the cosmic dance, trusting in the inherent wisdom of the universe.
May every moment of chaos be a sacred invitation to expand my consciousness, to transcend limitations, and to embrace the full spectrum of human experience. In the midst of chaos, I find the stillness of the eternal now, the unshakable center of peace and presence that remains untouched by the storm.
Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti. Om Namah Shivaya. Om Mani Padme Hum. Om Bhur Bhuvah Swaha. Om Tat Sat."
This mantra explores chaos as a transformative force, highlighting its role in shaping our growth, resilience, and creative expression.
third one
"In the timeless expanse of creation, I immerse myself in the boundless sea of creative potential, where every thought, every breath, and every heartbeat is a sacred brushstroke upon the canvas of existence. As I journey through the infinite realms of imagination, I awaken to the profound depths of creativity that lie dormant within me, waiting to be unleashed in a symphony of divine expression.
In the sacred sanctuary of my soul, I commune with the creative forces of the universe, weaving dreams, visions, and inspirations into the fabric of reality. With each moment of creation, I honor the sacred dance of life, infusing every creation with the essence of my soul's journey.
Through the alchemy of creativity, I transmute the raw materials of thought and emotion into works of art that resonate with the hearts and minds of all beings. With each stroke of the brush, each word penned, each note sung, I celebrate the beauty of creation as a reflection of the divine within.
As I surrender to the creative flow, I become a conduit for divine inspiration, allowing the cosmic energies to guide my hands and heart in the act of creation. With humility and gratitude, I acknowledge the sacred gifts bestowed upon me, knowing that each creation is a manifestation of the divine will.
In the dance of creation, I explore the depths of my being, uncovering hidden truths, passions, and desires that seek expression in the world. Through the creative process, I discover my true essence, a luminous being of infinite creativity and potential, connected to the cosmic web of life.
With reverence for the cycles of creation and renewal, I embrace the wisdom of impermanence, knowing that each creation carries the seed of transformation within. As I release attachment to outcomes, I surrender to the flow of creation, trusting in the divine intelligence that orchestrates the cosmic symphony with flawless precision.
In the sacred act of co-creation, I collaborate with the universe to manifest dreams into reality, aligning my intentions with the greater good of all beings. With love and compassion, I infuse my creations with the essence of my soul, touching the hearts and minds of others with the light of inspiration.
As I honor the sacred bond between creator and creation, I cultivate a deep sense of responsibility and stewardship, nurturing the seeds of creativity within myself and others. With each creation, I contribute to the evolution of consciousness, awakening humanity to the beauty, power, and sacredness of creative expression.
May every act of creation be a prayer of devotion to the Source of all creation, a testament to the infinite creativity that resides within each of us. In the sacred union of individual and universal creativity, I am a vessel of divine inspiration, illuminating the world with the brilliance of creation.
Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti. Om Namah Shivaya. Om Mani Padme Hum. Om Bhur Bhuvah Swaha. Om Tat Sat."
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Introduction to Mantras
Mantras are ancient sound formulas that hold profound spiritual significance across diverse cultures and traditions. Rooted in the wisdom of ancient sages and mystics, mantras serve as powerful tools for meditation, healing, and spiritual growth. This comprehensive guide explores the origins, meanings, types, benefits, and practices associated with mantras, offering a deep dive into their transformative power and universal relevance.
Origins of Mantras
The origins of mantras can be traced back to ancient Vedic scriptures, where they were used as sacred chants for invoking deities, attaining spiritual insights, and performing rituals. The Sanskrit word "mantra" is derived from "manas," meaning mind, and "trayate," meaning to protect or liberate. Thus, mantras are often regarded as potent tools for purifying the mind, protecting from negativity, and liberating consciousness from illusion.
Significance of Mantras
Mantras hold deep symbolic meanings and are imbued with spiritual vibrations that resonate with cosmic energies. Each mantra is believed to invoke specific divine qualities, such as love, compassion, wisdom, or abundance, depending on the deity or energy it represents. Chanting mantras is considered a sacred practice that connects individuals with higher realms of consciousness and fosters inner transformation.
Types of Mantras
Mantras are categorized into several types based on their purposes, forms, and origins. Some common types of mantras include:
Bija Mantras: Seed mantras that represent primal energies and are used for meditation and spiritual awakening.Deity Mantras: Chants dedicated to specific deities or divine energies, such as Om Namah Shivaya for Lord Shiva or Om Mani Padme Hum for Avalokiteshvara.Healing Mantras: Sound vibrations used for promoting physical, emotional, and mental well-being, often accompanied by specific intentions for healing.Tantric Mantras: Sacred chants used in Tantric rituals for spiritual empowerment, transformation, and realization of higher states of consciousness.Vedic Mantras: Ancient hymns from the Vedas, such as the Gayatri Mantra, revered for their purifying and illuminating qualities.Personalized Mantras: Mantras customized for individual practitioners based on their spiritual goals, aspirations, or personal attributes.
Benefits of Chanting Mantras
Chanting mantras is associated with a wide range of benefits that encompass physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Some key benefits include:
Stress Reduction: Mantra chanting induces relaxation responses in the body, reducing stress hormones and promoting overall calmness.Enhanced Focus: Regular practice of mantras improves concentration, memory, and mental clarity, enhancing cognitive functions.Emotional Balance: Mantras have a soothing effect on emotions, helping to release negative feelings, anxiety, and depression.Spiritual Awakening: Deepening the practice of mantras leads to spiritual insights, inner peace, and connection with higher consciousness.Healing: Certain healing mantras are believed to have therapeutic effects on physical ailments, promoting holistic healing.Manifestation: By aligning with specific energies through mantras, practitioners can manifest positive intentions, goals, and desires in their lives.
Cultural and Spiritual Context of Mantras
Mantras hold immense cultural and spiritual significance in various traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Yoga. In Hinduism, mantras are integral to worship, meditation, and rituals, with each deity associated with specific mantras and chants. The Gayatri Mantra, for instance, is revered as a universal prayer for enlightenment and wisdom.
Buddhist mantras, such as the Om Mani Padme Hum mantra of compassion, are central to meditation practices and the cultivation of virtues like loving-kindness and compassion. Jain mantras focus on non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), and spiritual purity, reflecting the core values of the Jain tradition.
Sikhism emphasizes the chanting of sacred hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib, known as Gurbani, as a means of connecting with the divine and attaining spiritual liberation. Mantras in Sikhism emphasize devotion, humility, and service to humanity.
Yoga traditions incorporate mantras as part of mantra yoga or Nada yoga, where sound vibrations are used to awaken consciousness, harmonize energies, and deepen meditation experiences. The use of bija mantras, such as "Om" or "So Hum," is common in yogic practices for their transformative effects on awareness and perception.
Mantra Meditation Practices
Mantra meditation is a central practice in many spiritual traditions and meditation techniques. The process of mantra meditation typically involves:
Selection of Mantra: Choosing a mantra that resonates with one's spiritual goals, intentions, or the energy one seeks to invoke.Focus and Repetition: Concentrating on the sound or visualization of the mantra, repeating it mentally or aloud with focused attention.Breath Awareness: Integrating breath awareness with mantra repetition, synchronizing inhalation and exhalation with the rhythm of the mantra.Silent Meditation: Progressing from audible chanting to silent repetition, allowing the mantra to resonate internally and dissolve into pure awareness.Mantra Japa: Engaging in mantra japa (repetitive chanting) using mala beads or counting beads to maintain concentration and track repetitions.Mantra Visualization: Combining mantra chanting with visualization techniques to deepen the meditative experience and evoke specific energies or qualities.
Mantra meditation practices vary across traditions, with some emphasizing the vibrational aspect of sound (Nada yoga), while others focus on the symbolic and transformative meanings of mantras (Tantric practices). Regardless of the approach, mantra meditation serves as a potent tool for inner exploration, self-discovery, and spiritual evolution.
Scientific Studies on Mantras
In recent years, scientific research has increasingly explored the effects of mantra chanting and meditation on human physiology, psychology, and well-being. Studies have shown that regular mantra meditation practices can lead to:
Stress Reduction: Mantra meditation induces the relaxation response, lowering cortisol levels, blood pressure, and heart rate.Improved Cognitive Function: Chanting mantras enhances cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and executive control, as observed in brain imaging studies.Emotional Regulation: Mantra meditation promotes emotional balance, reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.Pain Management: Certain mantras, when combined with mindfulness practices, have been found to alleviate chronic pain and improve pain tolerance.Immune System Boost: Regular mantra meditation is associated with enhanced immune function, reduced inflammation, and improved overall health.Neuroplasticity: Long-term mantra meditation practices contribute to neuroplastic changes in the brain, enhancing neural connectivity and resilience.
These scientific findings validate the ancient wisdom behind mantra practices and highlight their therapeutic potential in modern healthcare settings, such as mindfulness-based interventions, stress management programs, and integrative medicine approaches.
Mantras in Contemporary Spirituality
In contemporary spirituality, mantras
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The Radiant Path: A Journey to Enlightenment
In the ancient land of Suryavarta, nestled amidst majestic mountains and verdant forests, there lived a young seeker named Arjun. From a tender age, Arjun felt a deep yearning for truth and understanding, a longing that set his heart aglow with the desire for enlightenment.
Arjun was born into a family of humble farmers, where the rhythms of nature and the simplicity of rural life imbued his soul with a profound sense of connection to the cosmos. Yet, within him burned a fervent curiosity, a thirst for knowledge that transcended the boundaries of his village and reached towards the stars.
One fateful night, as Arjun lay beneath the canopy of twinkling constellations, a luminous being appeared before him in a vision. Clad in robes of iridescent light, the celestial messenger spoke with a voice that resonated like the harmonies of the universe.
"Arjun," the ethereal figure intoned, "your heart is a beacon of divine longing, a seed of enlightenment waiting to blossom. Seek the wisdom of the ancient sages, traverse the realms of inner silence, and unlock the secrets of the universe."
With these cryptic words, the apparition vanished, leaving Arjun with a profound sense of purpose and an insatiable thirst for spiritual understanding. Determined to embark on the path of enlightenment, he bid farewell to his family and set out on a pilgrimage across the vast lands of Suryavarta.
Arjun's journey took him through bustling marketplaces, serene temples, and mystical forests teeming with hidden wonders. Along the way, he encountered wise sages, humble ascetics, and mystical beings who imparted timeless teachings and cryptic riddles that challenged his intellect and expanded his consciousness.
In the foothills of Mount Meru, Arjun met the venerable Sage Parvata, whose eyes shone with the light of inner knowing. Under Parvata's guidance, Arjun delved into the practices of meditation, breath control, and self-inquiry, learning to still the restless waves of his mind and awaken to the boundless ocean of awareness within.
As days turned into months and months into years, Arjun delved deeper into the mysteries of existence, exploring the realms of dreams, visions, and transcendental states of consciousness. He learned the sacred mantras that resonated with the cosmic vibrations, unlocking gateways to higher dimensions and inner realms of light.
One moonlit night, while meditating by the banks of the sacred Ganga River, Arjun experienced a profound shift in consciousness. In a moment of pure stillness, the veils of illusion dissolved, and he beheld the radiant essence of his true nature—a luminous being of infinite love, wisdom, and compassion.
Tears of ecstasy flowed from Arjun's eyes as he realized that enlightenment was not a distant goal to be attained but a timeless truth to be remembered. He understood that the journey itself was the destination, and that every step, every breath, was a sacred dance of awakening.
With newfound clarity and purpose, Arjun returned to his village, where he shared the teachings of enlightenment with sincerity and humility. His words carried the resonance of direct experience, touching the hearts of fellow seekers and inspiring a wave of awakening across the land.
Years passed, and Arjun's hair turned silver with wisdom, yet his eyes sparkled with the same childlike wonder that had ignited his quest for enlightenment. He became a guiding light for all who sought the path of inner transformation, embodying the timeless truth that enlightenment is not the end but a new beginning—an eternal journey of self-discovery, growth, and radiant joy.
And so, in the land of Suryavarta, the legend of Arjun the Enlightened One echoed through the ages, reminding all beings that the light of awakening shines within, waiting to be unveiled by those who dare to walk the radiant path of truth and love.
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Our
Universe
1. Age and Size of the Universe:
The current estimated age of the universe is about 13.8 billion years, based on observations of cosmic microwave background radiation.The observable universe spans an immense distance of approximately 93 billion light-years in diameter, encompassing billions of galaxies, stars, and other celestial objects.
2. Composition of the Universe:
The universe is primarily composed of dark energy, dark matter, and ordinary matter.Dark energy is a mysterious force that accounts for about 68% of the total energy density of the universe, causing its expansion to accelerate.Dark matter, making up around 27% of the universe's energy density, interacts gravitationally but does not emit, absorb, or reflect light, making it invisible and challenging to detect.Ordinary matter, including atoms, molecules, and subatomic particles, constitutes only about 5% of the universe's energy density but forms stars, planets, and all visible matter.
3. Structure of the Universe:
The universe's large-scale structure is organized into filaments, voids, superclusters, and galaxy clusters, forming a cosmic web-like structure.Galaxies, including spiral, elliptical, and irregular types, are grouped into clusters and superclusters, interconnected by cosmic filaments.The universe's structure is shaped by gravitational interactions, cosmic expansion, and the distribution of dark matter and dark energy.
4. Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation (CMB):
The cosmic microwave background radiation is residual radiation from the early universe, dating back to about 380,000 years after the Big Bang.CMB provides crucial evidence for the Big Bang theory and offers insights into the universe's early conditions, such as its temperature and density fluctuations.
5. Expansion of the Universe:
The universe is expanding, as evidenced by the redshift of distant galaxies observed in their spectra.Edwin Hubble's discovery of redshifted galaxies led to the formulation of Hubble's Law, which describes the relationship between a galaxy's distance and its recessional velocity, indicating an expanding universe.The expansion of the universe is not due to galaxies moving through space but rather the space between galaxies stretching over time.
6. Cosmic Inflation:
Cosmic inflation is a rapid exponential expansion of space that occurred in the early universe, shortly after the Big Bang.Inflationary theory helps explain the uniformity of the cosmic microwave background radiation and the large-scale structure of the universe.
7. Formation and Evolution of Stars and Galaxies:
Stars form from clouds of gas and dust, undergoing gravitational collapse and nuclear fusion processes that release energy and light.Galaxies, such as spiral, elliptical, and irregular types, evolve through mergers, interactions, and star formation within their structures.The life cycle of stars includes stages like protostars, main sequence stars, red giants, supernovae, neutron stars, and black holes.
8. Black Holes and Neutron Stars:
Black holes are regions of spacetime with gravitational fields so intense that nothing, not even light, can escape from them beyond the event horizon.Neutron stars are incredibly dense stellar remnants formed from the collapsed cores of massive stars, composed mainly of neutrons and exhibiting strong magnetic fields.
9. Exoplanets and Habitable Zones:
Exoplanets are planets orbiting stars outside our solar system, detected through various methods, including transit observations and radial velocity measurements.The habitable zone, also known as the Goldilocks zone, is the region around a star where conditions are favorable for liquid water and potentially life to exist on a planet's surface.
10. Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB):
The cosmic microwave background (CMB) is the oldest light in the universe, originating from a time when the universe cooled enough for neutral atoms to form, making it transparent to radiation.CMB radiation is nearly uniform across the sky but contains subtle temperature fluctuations, providing insights into the early universe's conditions and the formation of cosmic structures.
11. Big Bang Theory:
The Big Bang theory is the prevailing cosmological model describing the universe's origin and evolution from a hot, dense state nearly 13.8 billion years ago.According to the Big Bang theory, the universe underwent rapid expansion, cooling, and the formation of matter, radiation, and cosmic structures over billions of years.
12. Multiverse Hypothesis:
The multiverse hypothesis proposes the existence of multiple universes, each with its own physical laws, constants, and properties.Various versions of the multiverse hypothesis, such as the inflationary multiverse and the Many-Worlds Interpretation in quantum mechanics, are theoretical frameworks for explaining cosmic diversity
13. Dark Energy and Dark Matter:
Dark energy is the dominant component of the universe's energy density and is responsible for the accelerated expansion of the universe.Dark matter, which interacts gravitationally but not electromagnetically, plays a crucial role in galactic dynamics and large-scale structures, influencing the distribution of visible matter.
14. Cosmic Web and Large-Scale Structure:
The cosmic web is a vast network of interconnected filaments composed of galaxies, galaxy clusters, and cosmic voids.Large-scale structures, such as galaxy clusters and superclusters, are organized within the cosmic web, shaped by gravitational interactions over cosmic time.
15. Quasars and Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN):
Quasars are extremely luminous and distant objects powered by supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies, emitting intense radiation across the electromagnetic spectrum.Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) encompass quasars, blazars, and Seyfert galaxies, exhibiting energetic phenomena like accretion disks, jets, and high-energy emissions.
16. Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) Anisotropies:
Anisotropies in the cosmic microwave background (CMB) refer to small temperature fluctuations observed across different regions of the sky, providing insights into cosmic structure formation.These CMB anisotropies reflect density variations in the early universe, leading to the formation of galaxies, galaxy clusters, and cosmic voids over cosmic time.
17. Cosmic Rays and High-Energy Astrophysics:
Cosmic rays are high-energy particles, primarily protons and atomic nuclei, that travel through space at near-light speeds, originating from sources like supernovae, black holes, and active galactic nuclei.High-energy astrophysics studies cosmic phenomena involving extreme energies, such as gamma-ray bursts, pulsars, magnetars, and the acceleration mechanisms of cosmic rays.
18. Cosmic Evolution and Timeline:
The cosmic evolution timeline traces the universe's history from the Big Bang to the present epoch, encompassing key epochs like inflation, recombination, galaxy formation, and cosmic acceleration.Observations from cosmic microwave background (CMB) studies, galaxy surveys, and supernova observations provide crucial data points for understanding cosmic evolution.
19. Gravitational Waves and LIGO Observations:
Gravitational waves are ripples in spacetime caused by accelerating massive objects, such as merging black holes or neutron stars.The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) and other gravitational wave detectors have detected gravitational waves, confirming predictions from Einstein's general theory of relativity.
20. Future Cosmic Discoveries and Missions:
Future astronomical missions and observatories, such as the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), and the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST), aim to uncover new insights into cosmic phenomena, dark matter, dark energy, exoplanets, and the early universe.Advancements in astrophysical simulations, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing are expected to revolutionize our understanding of the universe and its fundamental properties in the coming decades.
21. Multidisciplinary Approaches in Astrophysics:
Astrophysics combines principles from physics, astronomy, cosmology, particle physics, and computational science to study the universe's structure, evolution, and fundamental laws.Interdisciplinary collaborations, data-driven analyses, and theoretical modeling are integral to advancing our knowledge of the cosmos and addressing key cosmological questions.
22. Cosmic Mysteries and Unsolved Questions:
Despite significant advancements, the universe poses intriguing mysteries and unsolved questions, such as the nature of dark energy and dark matter, the origin of cosmic inflation, the ultimate fate of the universe, and the possibility of parallel universes or a multiverse.
23. Quantum Cosmology and Early Universe:
Quantum cosmology explores the application of quantum mechanics to the entire universe, including its origin and evolution.During the Planck epoch (the earliest phase of the universe), quantum fluctuations in spacetime and energy density played a crucial role in shaping cosmic structures.
24. String Theory and Multidimensional Universes:
String theory posits that fundamental particles are tiny, vibrating strings, and it offers a framework for unifying gravity with the other fundamental forces.Some versions of string theory propose the existence of extra dimensions beyond the familiar three spatial dimensions and one time dimension, suggesting a multidimensional universe.
25. Cosmic Microwave Background Polarization:
Polarization measurements of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) provide insights into the universe's early conditions, inflationary processes, and the nature of primordial gravitational waves.Observations from instruments like the Planck satellite and future missions aim to map CMB polarization with high precision, probing fundamental cosmological parameters.
26. Black Hole Thermodynamics and Information Paradox:
Black hole thermodynamics explores the relationship between black holes, entropy, and the laws of thermodynamics, including the famous black hole information paradox.The information paradox questions what happens to the information (quantum states) of matter and energy that falls into a black hole, posing fundamental challenges to our understanding of quantum mechanics and gravity.
27. Cosmic Web Filaments and Large-Scale Simulations:
High-resolution simulations and numerical models simulate the formation and evolution of the cosmic web, including the growth of cosmic filaments, galaxy clusters, and voids.These simulations incorporate dark matter dynamics, gas interactions, gravitational effects, and cosmological parameters to recreate the observed large-scale structure of the universe.
28. Multimessenger Astronomy and Neutrino Astronomy:
Multimessenger astronomy integrates data from different cosmic messengers, including electromagnetic radiation (such as light), gravitational waves, cosmic rays, and neutrinos.Neutrino astronomy studies high-energy neutrinos from cosmic sources, such as supernova remnants, active galactic nuclei, and cosmic accelerators, providing insights into astrophysical processes and cosmic ray origins.
29. Quantum Entanglement and Spacetime Geometry:
Quantum entanglement, a phenomenon where particles become interconnected regardless of distance, has implications for understanding quantum gravity and spacetime geometry.The holographic principle suggests a deep connection between quantum information in a lower-dimensional space (such as a boundary) and the bulk spacetime geometry, offering new perspectives on black hole physics and fundamental physics.
30. Cosmic Dawn and Reionization Epoch:
The cosmic dawn marks the era when the first stars and galaxies formed, illuminating the early universe after the cosmic dark ages.The reionization epoch refers to the period when neutral hydrogen in the universe became ionized by ultraviolet radiation from early stars and quasars, transforming the cosmic gas into a plasma state.
31. Exotic Cosmic Objects and High-Energy Phenomena:
Exotic cosmic objects, such as magnetars, quasars, gamma-ray bursts, and fast radio bursts, exhibit extreme energy releases, magnetic fields, and relativistic effects.Understanding these high-energy phenomena involves studying their astrophysical origins, emission mechanisms, and interactions with cosmic environments.
32. Fundamental Constants and Anthropic Principles:
Fundamental constants, such as the speed of light, gravitational constant, and Planck constant, play crucial roles in shaping the universe's physical laws and properties.The anthropic principle explores the idea that certain fundamental constants and cosmic conditions are finely tuned to allow for the emergence of life and intelligent observers, raising philosophical and cosmological questions.
1. Quantum Cosmology and Inflationary Universe:
Quantum cosmology investigates the quantum mechanical properties of the universe as a whole, including its origin and evolution.Inflationary cosmology proposes that the universe underwent a rapid expansion (inflation) in the early moments after the Big Bang, explaining the observed uniformity of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation and large-scale structure of the universe.The quantum nature of inflationary processes, such as quantum fluctuations in the inflaton field, contributes to the formation of cosmic structures and density perturbations observed in the CMB anisotropies.
2. Dark Matter and Particle Physics:
Dark matter remains one of the most intriguing mysteries in cosmology, comprising about 27% of the universe's energy density yet interacting only through gravity.Particle physics theories, such as supersymmetry (SUSY) and axion models, propose hypothetical particles that could account for dark matter's gravitational effects and properties.Experiments and detectors, such as the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), are searching for evidence of dark matter particles through indirect detection methods and collider experiments.
3. Black Holes and Event Horizons:
Black holes are regions of spacetime where gravitational forces are so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape beyond the event horizon.The study of black hole physics includes understanding their formation, accretion processes, Hawking radiation (quantum effects near the event horizon), and information paradoxes.Observational techniques, such as gravitational wave astronomy (e.g., LIGO and Virgo collaborations), X-ray telescopes, and radio interferometry (e.g., the Event Horizon Telescope), provide insights into black hole dynamics, mergers, and astrophysical environments.
4. Multiverse Theories and Cosmological Models:
Multiverse theories propose the existence of multiple universes or dimensions beyond our observable universe, each with its own physical laws, constants, and cosmological parameters.Different versions of multiverse hypotheses include the inflationary multiverse (eternal inflation), string theory landscapes, and quantum many-worlds interpretations.Cosmological models, such as eternal inflation, cyclic cosmology, and brane cosmology (from string theory), explore the origins, fate, and structure of the multiverse and its implications for cosmic evolution and fundamental physics.
5. Cosmic Dawn and Early Galaxies:
The cosmic dawn marks the epoch when the first stars and galaxies formed in the universe, transitioning from a primordial gas-filled state to a luminous era of cosmic illumination.Observations from telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), and the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) probe cosmic dawn phenomena, including early galaxy formation, reionization processes, and starburst events.Studying the cosmic dawn era offers insights into the origins of cosmic structure, galaxy evolution, and the interplay between dark matter, gas dynamics, and stellar feedback in shaping the early universe.
if this is truth would you think that there's another living things in the vast sky or was it really just us in here trap in the babble a dust of the big jar forever unable to leave due to out meager life span..
Guy: Im back
Laundry Lady: You cannot walk into my store wearing sliced turkey over your head.
Guy: Yes I can.
Laundry Lady: No you cant
Guy: Are you shure?
[Guy tries to bribe lady with a coathanger.]
Laundry Lady: Leave the Laundromat!
Guy: After you give me some peanuts!
Laundry Lady: You really want those peanuts, dont you?
Guy: Maybe, Maybe Not
Laundy Lady: Leave!
Guy: You shall not live to be older than two cycles of a halibuts unicycle, for Orville Redenbaucher, the popcorn guy, is coming for you. Hahahahaha! All hail Orville..All Hail Orville..
[lady calls the SWAT Team, and the swat team spray the guy with mace untill his eyes puff up and explode, causing the Advill on the counter to topple]
This section of randomness was shoved upon the internet without warning by DelTaco on June 2, 2003.
Lobsters
Jeddidiah was thinking of ways to wipe out all of penguin kind by using a spoon
and dental floss. Hmmm.... So far he has massacred around uhh...2. He cannot
talk because the lobsters are gnawing at his only kneecap he has left, and that
is the left one. Oh no!!! The've got ahold of his prostetic knee!! What type of
lobsters are they???!!?! He starts to smell some mashed potatoes, they might
come in handy in the penguin plan.....
--DelTaco
This section of randomness was shoved upon the internet without warning on May 27, 2003.
Turmoil in Lobo's Lense
Joe Lopo was a man of mild temperament, short stature, and had the goal to become the world's fastest telephone eater. Though Lopo never knew even basic physics, he created a telescope capable of sighting the smallest hair on an alien who lived quite a few lightyears away. Joe Lopo quickly destroyed a large boulder and used the shattered remains to form eight small statues that strongly resembled tiny creatures being or related to the water flea. He placed them in a circular pattern to form a sort of shrine and placed the telescope in the middle of it. He then channeled the power of the stone water fleas into the telescope to view the power of the heavens. He was in a trance with the beauty of the mysterious dimension and didn't even notice the very large tornado heading toward him.The shrine was quickly demolished and the immediate withdrawl of power sent Joe Lobo into a lair of pitch blackness found to be a parallel dimension that caused anyone whose first name began with J, along with M,L, and Q, to become rather uncomfortable. Joe was also suddenly introduced to undroclamaticolomphasisciousy, the eccentric tapeworm with a strong morrocan accent."I'm undroclamaticolomphasisciousy, the eccentric tapeworm. I like pizza so how are ya doin?""I have no idea," said Joe. "I feel very uncomfortable."A small beep was heard. "Oh, that's me," said the worm. He pulled out his cell phone. "Hey, I like pizza so how are ya' doin?""You're too late," said the one on the other side of the line."I know I am!" he said, as he quickly hung up. "Anyway, I've come to meet you," he said to me."I suspected that suspicious suspectial suspision," I said. "Why did you come to meet me?""Because," said the tapeworm. "You are the chosen dude."A million tiny fabrics twisted in the shape of a microwave opened the space around me and started marching toward me, chanting, "Chosen dude, chosen dude, chosen dude...""Why am I the chosen dude?" asked Joe."Because," said the worm. He pointed to the tissue hanging out of my side pocket. "The sign.""The sign, the sign, the sign...!" chanted the fabrics."I'm afraid there has been a mistake," said Joe. "Please release me.""You shall be released," stated the worm. "On one condition: you assist this cat in consuming the sacred erasible pen."The fabrics gasped. Joe shoved the erasible pen in the cat's mouth. The cat suddenly morphed into a gargantuan capybara and exploded.The worm scowled at Joe. He was not supposed to complete the task."You, still shall not be released," said the worm. "We are dependent upon the powers of the chosen one. You shall remain with us!" But just as he said this, Minnie Turner, the girl who lived inside of a shoebox on a desert island for fourteen years in 1672, appeared in the dimension. She tainted the worm using a glass of grape juice and compressed the subatomic particles in the fabrics until a black hole formed. Joe and Minnie entered and vanished from the dimension, to enter a new one that resembleed the innards of a cable modem device."Why did you save me?" asked Joe?
"Mark the wrong one," said Minnie.Then everything went "SKWADLIDOO!" and disappeared and Joe found himself alone, at his home on earth.Joe then ate a telephone.
This section of randomness was shoved upon the internet without warning on Saturday, April 25, 2003 by GiganticPuffyFluffball
HaarpIfoosh the Depressed Sausage
Once in a meat-packing plant far away, there was a sausage. His name was Haarplfoosh. Although since he was simply a mass of pig guts stuck into a small, gristly tube, he did not care. So, thus it was totally pointless. The End Sploookinfhaglish
This bit of randomness was thrust upon the internet without warning on Wednsday, May 7, 2003.
This random, pointless moment by Datsun.
Books About Lawn Gnomes
Once upon a time, there was this guy. This guy was very sad. He was so sad that he decided to go out into his front yard and seize his lawn gnome. He stared at it for at least 45 minutes. He then smashed it with an umbrella. He suddenly felt happy.The guy went and published his book, "Happiness Through Lawn Gnomes." Millions of people bought it. It didn't work. They then smashed it with an umbrella. Many people tried to publish, "Happiness Through Books About Happiness Through Lawn Gnomes," but only one four year old girl did. Millions of people bought that book.It didn't work.So everybody stuffed their books in shoeboxes and flooded the guy and the girl's houses with billions of books. But they had lawn gnomes and books about them, so they lived on in happiness for eternity.
This section of randomness was shoved upon the internet without warning on Saturday, April 25, 2003.
This random moment by GiganticPuffyFluffball
Laundromat Tale with Inexplicably Chosen Ending
This guy walks into a laundry store, and asks for some peanuts.
Guy: Hey, give me some peanuts.
Laundry Lady: Um, we don't have peanuts, we're a laundry store.
Guy: Hey, who are you people? Do you work for the CIA?
Laundry Lady: Um, no, who are you? Whata are you doing here?
Guy: Stuff.
Laundry Lady: What's wrong with you? You people drive me insane! What are you doing here if you don't have any laundry?
Guy: Stuff.
Laundry Lady: Okay that's it.
Lady smashes guy over the head with a cantelope.
Guy: Hey, you just hit me over the head with a cantelope!
Laundry Lady: Yeah, and the--
Guy: Geez, what's wrong with you?
Laundry Lady: Well you're the--
Guy: I'm not playing hide and seek with you any more!
Laundry Lady: What--
Guy leaves, slamming door. Ants start to eat the cantelope. Lady cries, and small rat living in a hole in the store implodes, leaving the cat furious.
What I learned About How I Write
The problem that I discovered is that though I am clearly not a 'pantser' (A person who can write without an outline, lucky you), I also learned that when writing characters based on people I know, is that I had forgotten to - how do I say this without hurting my own feelings? - ahh, yes; I'd forgotten to make the people interesting. The lead characters are interesting to me, but as I read what I'd written back to myself, they were not that interesting.
From Chapter 3 in my book, they're very interesting because, at that point, I've thrown in stuff for them to do. I'd thrown in actual conflict and problems that they needed to overcome. It took 50 pages before the story even started. I'd spent the first 12,000 trying to define who they are as a person without 'telling', so I'd show you. And show you some more, and if you hadn't got that our protagonists are cowards and nerds, I'm going to show you them playing Dungeons & Dragons. For five pages. I know what you're thinking - Oh, shit. Indeed.
But, no need to worry, it's not all bad. There's plenty of good stuff here. I'm not going to go back and rewrite just yet, but I am going to break up the chapter beats into scenes, and then I'll note in the little notes bar in Scrivener what I'll be changing - And that's conflict, baby. Get someone to punch him in the face. That does happen, but trust me, it'll work.
I've learned that I must have a specific map when writing. It's not just A to Z; it's A to B to C to D… you get the picture. The reason for this is that in this story, there are (will be) three main characters, each with their own arc. That's important because the story is also set across three countries. Hence, I need to set out the motivation within the story and give it credibility as the characters move from one place to another. It was all in my head, but it needed to be down on paper. Which it wasn't.
Research using Capacities
The other week, I was reading stories on Medium about writing. I love reading about other people's experiences writing a novel or article and learning from their mistakes and methods. I love the process, just as I love looking at photos of people's bookcases on Instagram. And I came across this article, written by fellow PKM enthusiast, Reka. She has outlined how she uses Capacities in the best way possible. She creates a Wiki for each novel; it's not overly complex but allows her to have an easy-to-navigate system of collected notes and ideas. Credit to her, I have absolutely stolen her 'Sparks' concept. I haven't even adjusted it. Copy. Paste. Cheers 🥂.
This has proven to be a tool that I use far more often than I expected. Maps, research, subplots, themes, character bios (with photos closely resembling the characters as I see them in my head) and everything in between. I still write handwritten notes when I'm out and about - but if I do think of something before I go to bed at night, it's found its way into Capacities.
What I am not using Capacities for, though, is outlining the book. I could, but the tool for outlining in Scrivener is basically the boss of all outliners. I absolutely love it - now that I've read the manual.
How I'm approaching the next 80,000 words
I paused the writing for a few days and decided to outline my book. Not all of it, but the parts that I knew well, I broke them down into scenes. Each of those scenes needs to have a purpose. Why is it there? Why should you even care it's there? What does it add? Is it moving the story forward in some way? If so, which way? This is important as the mistake that I learned from the first two chapters is that there was no reason for the reader to turn the page. Also, I've been making cards with sequences that will come later, but I'm not sure how they fit in just yet, so I have a folder of cards simply called 'to be added later'. I also decided to break up the long chapters, one of which was 7,000 words, and look at Chapter best practices online. There's a lot of information out there, and some will work for me, and some will work for you, but the one video that will work for everyone is this one:
How I'm feeling moving forward
The book is now coming along nicely; I keep referring to it as a book, as when I started this, but it's not a book. It's a story. I wanted to write a novel and improve my writing capabilities when I started. The goal wasn't to tell a good story but to finish it. But as this writing challenge continues, I've fallen in love with the story I'm crafting. I feel that I will most likely not have the book completed by May 3rd as planned, although a two-week vacation to a villa in the Canary Islands is coming up, and I intend to spend a lot of time walking in the hills and writing the book, so I could make up for lost time. I have no expectations of how good or bad it will be; I will let others decide that, but what started as the project, "Just write the damn thing", has turned into a passion project of mine. I think that my terrible book may not actually be that terrible after all.
In 20,000 words, I've learned about the sort of writer I am; I haven't yet found my 'voice', but as I write more and more, I feel that it's developing. This blog has been written from my gut, not my head. And that's how I want my words to come across, not overly constructed to the point of insincerity or pretentious. I don't want the person who may read 'Escape' (that's the title, for now, anyway) to feel cheated or that they have been conned in some way. I'm learning.
The Challenge
I recently wrote this story about my plans to write a terrible novel. Of course, no one in their right mind would ever set out to write a terrible book, but I had the idea for what I think could be a great book, but I lacked the skills and experience to give that story the justice it deserves. So, I decided the only way I could improve as a writer was to write a novel. It has been a lifelong ambition of mine to sit down and tell a good story, and boy, did I have every excuse in the world not to do it. Did I want to be a writer or someone who talks about being a writer?
It was time to stop reading books about writing and start writing. So I set a (some would say, ridiculous challenge) I set out to write 100,000 words, and it would be before my birthday on May 3rd. (Roughly 1,000 words a day). (That's 2024, for anyone reading this in the future)
I got to work.
The Non-Starter
The first attempt was an unmitigated disaster. I'll happily admit that. However, I can see the funny side! Luckily, my sense of humour over my inability to think with my fingertips is very much intact. I sat down on day one and started to type. I had no plan or story; I would write and see where it would take me. And it took me far, far away. It's not quite a galaxy far, far away, but round the corner - past the shops. The story was set thousands of years in the future after the earth had been destroyed, and stories of Earth were nothing more than legend. The stories from Earth were lost to time, and the characters didn't know what was true or just 'a story'. I thought this was a decent premise for a story, and I still do. But what I liked about it was its scope. That was my first problem: who are these people? So, I needed to develop an alien race at war with another because there's always a war in these stories. Who doesn't love a good old trope to lean into, huh? I got lost in the descriptions, world-building, space stations, weaponry, and the search for the 'ultimate weapon' - Oh dear, Lord. I was nearly 10,000 words into my Magnus Opus to find that I'd got lost in the vacuum of space and was drowning in cliche. Each day, as I sat down to write, with no preparation, it was becoming more and more arduous to construct a sentence that wasn't complete garbage. I had started writing a book, and to describe it as terrible would have been highly praised. Suffice it to say that the spaceship in my first attempt crashed and burned on its maiden voyage.
Starting Over
Starting over at this early stage wasn't too much of a problem. I was still committed to a completion date of May 3rd, which is still in 2024 for those keeping score. But I had to stop and think. What is the story that I want to tell? I have dozens of stories in my head - as Stephen King would say in 'On Writing', I've located plenty of fossils in the ground (with a fossil being a story) - I need to excavate them carefully. The first fossil was removed with the grace of a bull in a china shop. The big question was, which I'll repeat, What is the story I wanted to tell?
I've been keeping a traveller's notebook in my bag for a while now; I have a passport-size one, so I can carry it everywhere without feeling like it's bothering me too much. And I'd written a quick idea about two friends who travel together, and it's frankly, bonkers. (I won't go into specifics here). The idea was based on a conversation that my best friend and I had about ten, maybe twelve years ago. When I read that, I knew that was the story I wanted to tell. I had a beginning and a bit of a middle, but no ending. I knew my main characters very well already, as they're based on people I know (the ones who aren't going to get annoyed that I'm creating a fictionalised version of them, at least). I knew the cities where this story would take place (I'd been). Thanks to POV walking videos of cities worldwide and Google Maps street view, I could also retrace my steps from these locations and find those experiences locked somewhere in my long-term memory.
So, I started writing, using Ulysses as my application of choice. Unfortunately, for my needs, I needed to ensure that this story would not be written in the same manner as the failed last one; I needed to excavate this fossil very carefully. The clock was ticking, after all…
Moving to Scrivener
Ahh, Scrivener. I have always wanted to love you.
I've been playing with Scrivener for years, but despite it being probably the best piece of software for writing a novel, it's a bit of a pain in the backside if you're impatient and don't read the manual. Ladies and gentlemen, yes, we're back in cliche territory here because I did not read the manual.
Until now.
I watched some videos on YouTube and looked at the themes of the software - did you even know it had themes?! Honestly, give me yet ANOTHER reason to procrastinate, why don't you? Jokes aside, I did spend an unfortunate, and some would say, 'concerning' amount of time playing around, making the damn thing look pretty.
But then I started to write.
I'd not done much planning at this stage, but I felt I needed to stop looking at a blank page and get some words down. There was a story in me that was bursting to come out. From a scrivener perspective, I'd planned so far as I'd broken the first part down to three locations; let's call it the first act. Each location has three chapters. Inside those chapters, I'd not broken them down into scenes (which I should have; more on that shortly), but chosen to have story 'beats'.
At this point, I still wasn't using Scrivener to its fullest; it's probably 'emptiest'. But I got into the writing flow and was thinking about the book when I wasn't writing. New scenes, conflict, major turning points - all those great moments we yearn for when reading a book. In writing this book, I aim to make the reader want to turn the page and keep reading. Frankly, I probably stole that quote from anyone who has ever written a book about writing. Sorry, not sorry. It's true.
Then I hit 20,000 words and stopped to breathe for a second. Oh, shit.
Research using Capacities
The other week, I was reading stories on Medium about writing. I love reading about other people's experiences writing a novel or article and learning from their mistakes and methods. I love the process, just as I love looking at photos of people's bookcases on Instagram. And I came across this article, written by fellow PKM enthusiast, Reka. She has outlined how she uses Capacities in the best way possible. She creates a Wiki for each novel; it's not overly complex but allows her to have an easy-to-navigate system of collected notes and ideas. Credit to her, I have absolutely stolen her 'Sparks' concept. I haven't even adjusted it. Copy. Paste. Cheers 🥂.
This has proven to be a tool that I use far more often than I expected. Maps, research, subplots, themes, character bios (with photos closely resembling the characters as I see them in my head) and everything in between. I still write handwritten notes when I'm out and about - but if I do think of something before I go to bed at night, it's found its way into Capacities.
What I am not using Capacities for, though, is outlining the book. I could, but the tool for outlining in Scrivener is basically the boss of all outliners. I absolutely love it - now that I've read the manual.
How I'm approaching the next 80,000 words
I paused the writing for a few days and decided to outline my book. Not all of it, but the parts that I knew well, I broke them down into scenes. Each of those scenes needs to have a purpose. Why is it there? Why should you even care it's there? What does it add? Is it moving the story forward in some way? If so, which way? This is important as the mistake that I learned from the first two chapters is that there was no reason for the reader to turn the page. Also, I've been making cards with sequences that will come later, but I'm not sure how they fit in just yet, so I have a folder of cards simply called 'to be added later'. I also decided to break up the long chapters, one of which was 7,000 words, and look at Chapter best practices online. There's a lot of information out there, and some will work for me, and some will work for you, but the one video that will work for everyone is this one:
The short story is a crafted form in its own right. Short stories make use of plot, resonance and other dynamic components as in a novel, but typically to a lesser degree. While the short story is largely distinct from the novel or novella/short novel, authors generally draw from a common pool of literary techniques.[citation needed] The short story is sometimes referred to as a genre.
Determining what exactly defines a short story remains problematic. A classic definition of a short story is that one should be able to read it in one sitting, a point most notably made in Edgar Allan Poe's essay "The Philosophy of Composition" (1846).[4] H.G. Wells described the purpose of the short story as "The jolly art, of making something very bright and moving; it may be horrible or pathetic or funny or profoundly illuminating, having only this essential, that it should take from fifteen to fifty minutes to read aloud." According to William Faulkner, a short story is character-driven and a writer's job is to "...trot along behind him with a paper and pencil trying to keep up long enough to put down what he says and does."
Some authors have argued that a short story must have a strict form. Somerset Maugham thought that the short story "must have a definite design, which includes a point of departure, a climax and a point of test; in other words, it must have a plot". Hugh Walpole had a similar view: "A story should be a story; a record of things happening full of incidents, swift movements, unexpected development, leading through suspense to a climax and a satisfying denouement."
This view of the short story as a finished product of art is however opposed by Anton Chekov, who thought that a story should have neither a beginning nor an end. It should just be a "slice of life", presented suggestively. In his stories, Chekov does not round off the end but leaves it to the readers to draw their own conclusions.
Sukumar Azhikode defined a short story as "a brief prose narrative with an intense episodic or anecdotal effect". Flannery O'Connor emphasized the need to consider what is exactly meant by the descriptor short. Short story writers may define their works as part of the artistic and personal expression of the form. They may also attempt to resist categorization by genre and fixed formation.
William Boyd, a British author and short story writer, has said:
[a short story] seem[s] to answer something very deep in our nature as if, for the duration of its telling, something special has been created, some essence of our experience extrapolated, some temporary sense has been made of our common, turbulent journey towards the grave and oblivion.
In the 1880s, the term "short story" acquired its modern meaning – having initially referred to children's tales. During the early to mid-20th century, the short story underwent expansive experimentation which further hindered attempts to comprehensively provide a definition. Longer stories that cannot be called novels are sometimes considered "novellas" or novelettes and, like short stories, may be collected into the more marketable form of "collections", of stories previously unpublished or published, but elsewhere.[citation needed] Sometimes, authors who do not have the time or money to write a novella or novel decide to write short stories instead, working out a deal with a popular website or magazine to publish them for profit.[citation needed] Around the world, the modern short story is comparable to lyrics, dramas, novels and essays – although examination of it as a major literary form remains diminished.
ut My God I Would Try – Random Story #11
From the corner of my eyes as I sat very still and divided my attention towards the news and analysing the possible aftermath that could develop after this terror, I saw him walking to and fro anxiously in his bedroom, and dividing his attention to each of his gadgets. I would assume he was trying to figure out further about what happened through the internet. Probably contacting people he knew as well who might be in Paris–he speaks French, after all, so most likely he is very familiar with the city, and very much related to it.
He went to the balcony to smoke–probably to calm himself down. I sat still and still watched the news, then chuckled as I couldn't believe how quick the US fucking A very readily involving themselves in this terror. From counterterrorism to responses from the White House, and just when no one yet claimed responsibility for the attack, nor figured out who might be behind this. Everything was still very much chaotic and everyone was still in confusion.
He came back from the balcony and sat beside me to watch the news. In the meantime, he was still busy checking his phone. Then I heard his soft sobs. So I looked.
He was definitely distraught and anxious.
"Shit. Are you okay? Are you alright?"
"Yea, yea. I'm okay," he answered very briefly.
"Do you know anyone in Paris? Is your friends or families live there at the moment?"
"Yea, I have a few of them still living in the city."
That explains why he was so disturbed by this.
And we were supposed to continue fucking, for fuck sake. (continue reading)
Random Story #8
"She tried to feel me," Sri said with terror in her whole face."What? What do you mean with 'trying to feel' you?" Christine, who was sitting right next to me, asked. She looked just as surprised as me, but I was too stunned to say anything."She… Well, I came to say goodbye, of course… She was out when I came here to give you guys a farewell, so… when I saw her on my way out, I thought I'd give a proper goodbye… And then… she told me to come near her, and so I did. But then… she hugged me. Which, I thought, was not a big deal, until… until she tried to grab my butt, and I felt her lips on my neck and her other hand tried to caress my breast, and…— " Sri stopped, too horrified to continue. (continue reading)Random Story #7
She is someone unknown to me, and what makes her very noticeable is her deformity, if I'm allowed to use such expression, causing her to limp when she walks, and even that is a mild expression. To be precise, she is actually dragging both her feet in order to move around, probably
Random Story #6
I packed my iBook G4, with its charger and rushed into the cafe as soon as I got a call to meet up and hang out with my friends.I'm late. I'm definitely late.And my phone's been ringing over and over for 30 minutes. The last time I took the call, my old pal scolded me for being late as ever with sharp tone and cruel, witty words.No worries. I know he meant no harm. That's just his manner of speech. (continue reading)Random Story #5
"Perhaps I should just drowned myself while I bathe later."Then after the tub was filled, she took off her clothes and jumped in. (continue reading)Random Story #4: Phone Call
She has been starring at her cell phone for about five minutes now. Had anyone paid close attention, they would notice that she was not really starring at her cell phone. She looked at that thing in her hand blankly, as if something occupied her mind.And it was. Something. Fill her mind.As a matter of fact, it was what appeared on her cell phone screen which made her lost in deep thought.Her dad, to be exact. (continue reading)Random Story #3
If getting closer with anyone would only brings pain in the end, than I should make a distance with anyone and build a thick brick wall from whoever trying to get closer. I should not get anywhere personal with anybody as well, then, I said to myself.
My mind flew to some time ago in the past, when I was arguing with my best friend, an independent woman, and the alpha-male figure in my life ever, who had struggled harder than anyone I know, to fight for her right and responsibility to raise her only daughter, me. (continue reading)Random Story #2: A Fresh Start
Yes, she had decided to seek jobs located far away from places she knew. Places where familiar people stayed. She had told herself so many times before that she wanted a fresh start. Without family connections. Without interference from those people who–she knew it by heart–only wanted to help her out. (continue reading)Random Story #1: True Love
"Do you believe in true love?"
I laughed, if not snorted, upon hearing such question being addressed to me.
"Is this a trick-question?" I asked him, sarcastically. (continue reading)Moment of Truth
Danielle looked at her shopping cart and thought of what she could have been missed. She'd put the cereal, instant coffees, toilet papers, and the detergent. She took another round to walk around the mini-market, to check whether there was anything else she'd want or need. She saw a pack of wet tissues and thought that she could use them, so she put it in her cart. (continue reading)
I think I shall have a mental breakdown very soon. I don't know what the hell keeps me sane all these time, but I can barely contain myself any longer. I'll probably explode anytime soon.
"I'm gonna have another bath," she said, as she raced towards the bathroom, not wanting to hear further arguments or protests from her partner.
Then she poured the hot water into the bathtub while she let her mind wander.
"Perhaps I should have just drowned myself while I bathe later."
Then after the tub was filled, she took off her clothes and jumped in.
She felt the warmth of the water and she felt surprisingly comfortable. So she closed her eyes for a while.
Then she opened her eyes.
She stared blankly at her legs as she sat on the tub. She wrapped her hands around her legs in the water as she lay her chin on her knees.
Then suddenly all the emotions she'd been keeping inside flowed uncontrollably as tears ran down her cheeks.
She made sure she didn't let out a single sound while she let her tears out.
She washed her face, hoping that the tears would be mixed up with water, and as she felt the water dripping from her face, the tears were still pouring out, still distinguishable from the water.
So she splashed some water on her face again.
She sat there for a while, trying to calm herself down, as well as making sure that there were no tears left when she left the bathroom later.
After the tears finally stopped, she drowned herself for 5 seconds in the water before she finally stepped out of the tub and drained it.
She looked at her reflection in the mirror as she dried herself with the towel.
No tears left. And her eyes–as well as her facial expression–looked normal. As normal as anyone who had just bathed without crying.
She let out a sigh and stared intently at her reflection. Would she cry again when she left the bathroom? Could she contain herself if she heard something painful after this?
After she made sure that she wouldn't cry anymore she opened the door.
Although the pain didn't leave, she could ignore it now.
Painful, yes, but she could live with it. She'd borne it all this time, after all, and she did it on her own.
Yes, on her own.
"Like God never exists. If He did, He never seem to care anyway."
he has been starring at her cell phone for about five minutes now. Had anyone paid close attention, they would notice that she was not really starring at her cell phone. She looked at that thing in her hand blankly, as if something occupied her mind.
And it was. Something. Fill her mind.
As a matter of fact, it was what appeared on her cell phone screen which made her lost in deep thought.
Her dad, to be exact.
The old man had been calling her for at least ten times this morning. Which she did not get. None of them, since she barely heard her cell phone rang.
She knew this would definitely upset her dad. But she was downstairs, taking a long bath when her dad called her ten times. Since it was Sunday, after all, she thought she could use some extra time to get a nice, comfortable hot bath, which she clearly could not do during weekdays, for she got up early in the morning, break her fast in a hurry, and tried not to be late to the office. Then she did what she ought to do, every week days, until the clock told her it was six o' clock already, and that she could go home to rest.
Surely her dad must know that she had been unable to take his calls.
At least he should've take the hint after at least five unanswered calls.
But no, she sighed as the thought came to her mind. Her dad wouldn't understand.
She had been thinking whether she should wait for another call or to call him back instead. Talking to her dad has not been the most pleasant events in the world to her. She'd rather he left her alone and mind his own business instead of hers. But he was her dad, after all, and in the name of courtesy and propriety, she ought to pay the old man some respect and at least try to call him back and explain why she hadn't been able to take his calls.
She had decided to call her dad back when her cell phone rang again.
Her dad.
Grimly, she pressed the green button, taking the call.
"Hey, dad."
"What the hell were you doing!? I was sick-worried, you know! I could be thinking that someone had kidnapped you, or that your cell phone had been stolen, and–"
"I know, dad. I'm sorry. No one's been trying to raid my phone, and I'm fine. I was in the bathroom, you know, and I sure couldn't bring my cell phone there. That's why I didn't hear you call," she explained.
"What the devil took you so long in the bathroom!? God, I've been trying to reach you since three days ago! Couldn't you at least texted me, simply to tell me that you've been doing okay? I was dead-worried thinking you might be sick since you haven't contact me since last week!"
"Geez, dad! It's only a week! Please, don't exaggerate things!"
"It's only a week! It has been a week without any news from you! Surely you can't blame me since you never really tell me what's going on with you! It's simply in your nature to keep things from me, even if you got sick and could barely get up from bed!"
"Dad, please. I'm fine!"
"Once you got married and have kids of your own, lady, you'd completely understand my action, and, pray, don't seek for my advice! You ought to know better!" He scolded her again.
Sure, she thought. If I ever got married. But she kept that thought to herself. She knew better than anyone else not to mention even the notion of the idea to her father. It would drive him mad.
Instead, she sighed.
"Dad. I'm fine," she repeated, trying to emphasize every word.
She heard a sigh from the other side of the line.
"What's up?" she asked her dad, trying to sound casual, yet she was actually burned with rage, for the scold she got earlier.
"Nothing. Just want to catch up," replied the old man.
She sighed and rolled her eyes. Just want to catch up!? What's with all the fuss, then? He sure made an impression that a gang of mafia just tried to rob him and he wanted to make sure that they hadn't robbed her, too.
"Oh," she said instead. "Well… Nothing's new with me, actually."
"Oh," said her dad. Then silence. Nah, an awkward silence, to be precise.
"Well," finally the old man said, breaking the silence. "You know, it's been a while since you're home, young lady. You're still gonna go home this weekend, are you?"
"Yes, dad," she said. It's the fifth time he asked her that very same question, and now it has begun to irk her.
"Well, then, have you prepared for the things you're taking with you?"
"I haven't, but I still got time. It's still a week ahead, dad."
"Well, but… you know, you should've started to prepare things, right?"
"Geez, dad, it's still a week later!"
"Well, you know better, then," said her dad in a rush, trying not to make another commotion. At least he realized how she inherited his temper.
She sighed, then, filling the silence that came afterwards. She was clearly reluctant to break the silence, only hoping that this small talks and politeness would end soon. Not that she hated her dad, but one too many times she thought her dad was too much overprotective and he definitely exaggerated his affectionate attention toward his one and only daughter.
Finally her dad spoke up, "So, have you heard about your grandpa?"
Her mind jumped right away to her dad's dad who just had a surgery last week, and she'd been dying to know how her grandpa had been doing following the surgery, but the thought that his dad would chatter endlessly on the phone was unbearable to her. She only wanted to end the conversation right away. But she knew the courtesy obliged her to continue this conversation, so she said,
"No. How's he doing so far?"
"About time you ask. He's been doing great. Tough guy, he is. You know he was walking unsupervisely last night to the bathroom while he was supposed to sleep and rest in bed? Thank God he didn't got slipped in the bathroom. We were worried sick, and I think I frightened the nurse for failing to notice this careless action. She ought to accompany him all the time!"
"Slow down, dad. She's a human being. At least grandpa's fine now. Nothing happened, right."
"Well, yea, but something worse could've happened!"
"Are you wishing for it?"
"Young lady, watch your tongue."
"I know. Sorry," she replied, regretting every words she had said, cursing at her stupid mouth.
"Well, tell grandpa I said hi," she said.
I passed her by again today.
She is someone unknown to me, and what makes her very noticeable is her deformity, if I'm allowed to use such expression, causing her to limp when she walks, and even that is a mild expression. To be precise, she is actually dragging both her feet in order to move around, probably due to broken bones in her legs, resulting in one leg bending forward and the other behind.
I saw her once in a while, on my way to school in the morning, and just like every passerby on the street, whenever I glimpse her from afar, I would prepare myself to keep walking straight and avoid looking at her direction.
Whenever I look at her, I can never be sure of what I feel toward her, or how I should just as well. Most of the time, it would be pity I feel, but would she feel insulted or hurt by that instead? In movies I've watched or books I've read, whenever they have such characters, they either beg for pity and even much more, or instead, loathing pity that they would scold or hate the person looking at them with such emotion. Of course, real life is completely different, but usually stories are drawn from reality, aren't they? And what if I do feel pity? When it comes to pity to those unfortunate, I always wish that I am filthy rich that I have enough money to send them to the doctors or hospitals, and have them treated properly or operated so someone like her could walk just like everybody else. Sadly, just like in most stories, this is no more than just another empty, bulshit talk. I only got so much money to pay for my tuition fee and my monthly allowance. And even if I saved a lot, it would still take years to pay such a lot sum for an operation or proper hospital treatment for them. I could probably pay as much as the down payment and that would hardly be enough. I suppose I could save enough to donate to a charity sometime soon.
But in the end, I simply passed her by, making sure to avoid her gaze and walked past her. I suppose it's no different than what every other passerby do. I keep thinking that perhaps this is better. If I show her pity, she might not like it. Yet, deep down I know that I tell myself such bullshit because I'm just too afraid to do anything.
Suddenly my mind jumped to a sample novel I just read last night. A work by Daniel Wallace titled The Kings and Queens of Roam caught my attention the other day, and intrigued me enough into reading a sample of it in my Kindle. It's a story of two sisters, Helen and Rachel McAllister, who were unfortunate enough to have both parents died, and born as orphans in the city of Roam. As if that's not enough, Rachel was born blind, but she was said to be very beautiful. On the other hand, Helen, though physically healthy and was able to see, was very, very ugly. Rachel was said to be loved by everyone in Roam, and they loved to see her as well because she was so beautiful, but Helen was a terrible sight. People avoided her gaze, and her altogether because they simply couldn't stand to look at her horrible face. In short, they prefer to consider her invisible whenever possible, and this has caused her a deep grief. She imagined how ironic the situation was: her sister, beautiful but blind, and her, healthy but ugly.
Of course, I know that Helen's situation was completely different to the woman, but in my mind, I was wondering whether she and Helen would think alike when it comes to how different kinds of people look at her. Then I thought about how I behave and felt very ashamed right away. I was doing exactly like what the people in Roam was doing: I was trying to pretend she's invisible by avoiding her gaze as well as interaction with her. Then that thought trigger another thought, which then led to me wasting to much time simply wondering what to do next. Even with other physically healthy people around me–in schools and neighborhood–I had trouble socializing with them, pondering too much of what to do and what to say in order to start a conversation or interacting with them (yes, I'm that awkward), so that time, I was spending even more time thinking of whether it would be better to turn around and… and then, what? Greet her? But then, that would be awkward, wouldn't it, if I simply greet her and then walk away? Give her money? Would food be better? How would she respond, then? Would she be offended, or would she be grateful?
So there I was, wasting my time thinking and thinking over what I should do or say while I kept walking. In the meantime, our distance became longer and longer, and I was more and more further away from her.
Then I continued walking.
In the end, I didn't do a thing.
In the end, I'm no more than a coward.
T looked at her new room and told herself that she had been very lucky, indeed. At least compared to friends' experiences. Most of them who sought for jobs in places far away did not even get an accommodation as fine as the one she had. For that, she reminded herself, she ought to be grateful.
Well, she was thankful, indeed.
She got a nice place to stay, and her new workplace was also very nice. She had meet her co-workers the previous day, and got a tour around her new office. She had not yet met her boss–or her boss' boss, but she saw him walking out from his office yesterday while touring her office, and he smiled at him. Well, at least her boss showed some courtesy. He was not one of those horrible tyranny bosses, at least. That was good enough as a starter, she thought to herself. It was her first day, anyway, sure she could not expect too much. Besides, she was getting fond of her new workplace already. She had been worried that her office might be one of those dreadful offices where everybody were so busily engaged with their works that they might even be too busy even to say a simple "Hi" to the newbie. But no, thank Heaven, her office did not give her any single impression of those horrible things. At least, it had not given her that impression. Again, it was her first day, wasn't it? And she was already in love with her new job, and her new office. Her co-workers all gave her warm welcomes and made sure she made herself comfortable in her new environment. Her boss (not her boss' boss) was so down-to-earth and hospitable that she wondered now what she had done exactly to deserve such a kind boss. She was truly thankful for this. Her new office did not at all intimidate her just like she had imagined before. And everybody, knowing that she had come all the way from her hometown which took almost 8 hours for her to get to the city–her new workplace, to be precise, tried to make sure that she had not come for nothing. Their warm reception had made her wondering whether she had met the most agreeable people on earth. They expressed her worries about her coming from far away, and whether she had managed to find a nice place to stay, and tried to inform her about places where she could get nice food and other stuffs, should she needed any. What had she done to deserve all these, really?
Then she reminded herself, that she should not be far too excited, yet, for it was her first day. Then again, she was reminded that she had chosen to find jobs far away from home. Away. Far-far away from everybody. And most people tend to find things like this difficult at first. The first days/months/years of adjusting are always the hard ones. But not for her. So once again, she mumbled a 'thank you' to God, if He does exist, and if not, to whatever supernatural powers out there which had made this easier and nicer for her.
Yes, she had decided to seek jobs located far away from places she knew. Places where familiar people stayed. She had told herself so many times before that she wanted a fresh start. Without family connections. Without interference from those people who–she knew it by heart–only wanted to help her out. People who thought that their connections or powers could help the a fresh-graduate who were–at that time–desperate for a job. And the offers were all tempting, really, but she decided she wanted to shape her own future. She thought that if she could not do this alone, that she never could. Ever. She hated the idea of relying her future on others' hands, already. So she hardened her heart and said a firm "No" to every offers and opportunities that had come to her through the hands of relatives. No, she told herself. No matter how tempting those offers were. No. She should make it on her own. At least she ought to try. If she
failed, than maybe she was not as good as thought she was. Then maybe she could turn to those relatives who had been dying to offer her thousands other opportunities. But she shivered only to think that she might be a failure after all, and that she then would have to rely on others after all.
Fate was not so harsh, it turned out, as she finally got an opportunity to get the fresh start that she always wanted. In a new place. Meeting new people. She thought her chance to finally prove herself worthy, were she worthy at all, had come after all. So she accepted the offer. Of course she intentionally failed to mention this "fresh start" and "a brand new beginning" to her relatives when they responded negatively upon hearing the news. Why ever the job should take her far-far away? Too bad she was not so lucky to get a job nearer to home, indeed. And all she said in response was a nod, a smile, or a simple "Yes," with a sorry-look and a sorry-smile. Yes, she felt sorry indeed, to leave her comfort zone, but then she reminded herself that she ought to give herself a try, indeed, for if she did not leave her comfort zone, she might never be able to leave at all. She ought to. She ought to give it a try.
So, after a final glance around her room, she smiled and felt content already. Yes, she was truly grateful. Then she unpacked her stuffs and arranged it comfortably in her room.
Weekly Power Status
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