Age: 34
Current HHI: ~$245k
NW: ~$750k
My financial goals have been to prioritize:

1. Retirement Savings
2. Pay down student loans

I recently had a newborn and this has now made me refocus my priorities to:

1. Save for her education (Private School)
2. Pay down student loans faster
3. Save for retirement

I received a job offer for a lateral move in a different industry. This new role is fully remote and has a brand new leadership team for the department. My potential to move up to the next step in my career looks stronger in this new role. I have only been in my current role for a little over 2 years. I do not see upward mobility unless someone leaves. I still enjoy and value my work, but I’m not as challenged as I would like to be. (Perhaps this is a positive since I have a newborn). I love the industry and my team is working on some really innovative solutions that I could leverage for a different role in the future. My company is highly respected and has a strong reputation.
Current role:
Base Pay: $132k
Individual Performance Bonus: 12% (up to 200%)
Company Profit Sharing: ~10% (between 5-10% last 2 years. 0% during pandemic)
401k Contributions: 9% (100% match up to 6% of pay, 3% seed. I am fully vested)
Industry: Airline – Flight Benefits included. Hard to quantify value
New role:
Base Pay: $160k
Individual Performance Bonus: 15% (unsure if there is a cap)
Equity: $81k. Fully Vested in 4 years, 25% per year vesting
401k Contributions: 3% (50% match up to 6% of pay)
Industry: Publicly Traded Tech Company – Future looks promising
This all does not include my rental income or spouse’s earnings.
Would love to know your thoughts on when it’s the right time to switch companies for a lateral move?

Title: "Dirty suede shoes"
Life is like the suede on my high top shoes,
It's got the lightest shades of Grey but it also has the darkest shades and hues
I'm not an island but you'll probably treat me like one too,
I'm also guest in my own mind but the type you never offer food,
I know God word and truth are objectve, even if I don't have a clue.
But it's almost like I don't blame myself sometimes when I act like a fool,
I'm mortified by the thought of social connection and have no grasp on social ques,
But hey, I can always tread back to my remote island,
Atleast there I'm free to get dirty and mess up the suede only my beatup leather shoes.

Has anyone else noticed how people who got in to mac heath sci all have low 90s averages? I know it’s obviously not based on marks but I swear to god people who got in at my school don’t have very good averages or writing skills but people who got rejected have high 90s averages and really good writers. Also congrats to people who got in!!! This post isn’t meant to bring them down but I really feel bad for some people at my school tbh.

Im a sweet Latina seeking a fun and respectful SD ideally in a nearby city but open to long distance if it works. I like nice smiles, kind people and silly clever banter. I have a ton of silly memes, love texting, kink friendly, go to the gym often and love laughing. I have long thick dark hair, piercings and tattoos. I’m 5’7 and on the curviefull side. I love thoughtfulness and my heart flutters when people give me gifts as it’s such a warm reminder that they are thinking of me. I would say my best characteristics are being fun, open minded and kind. I work with homeless children and want to go back to school for my masters in the next two years, also interested in learning how to invest.
I seek a relationship where we both respect and learn from each other. I’d like a SD that can reciprocate the consideration and thoughtfulness I carry on a daily basis. I’m open to discretion, but I am not interested in exclusivity. Older men is truthfully the only type of man I can see myself with as my experiences with older men has been warm, kind and straight forward. I’d love to travel, weekend getaways, staying in, going out to restaurants, bars, get into the art scene wherever we are, outdoor activities, trying new things!
I seek a connection with chemistry both in and outside the bedroom. I’m a lucky, sweet, drama free, adventurous and happy girl! Let me share that with you 💗

Hi guys, I made this post that got a lot of attention awhile ago:
https://www.reddit.com/PCOS/s/cUAs5qCGXj
I'd like to thank everyone for their advice!! It was comforting to hear from so many people. Here's a little update...
I went back to a different gyno and heard a similar answer, that I probably don't have PCOS, even with the sort of irregular periods. But since the ultrasounds were a few years old, I'm having a new one done soon. In addition, the doctor decided to have me redo some bloodwork. I'm looking at the results now, and the others values (FSH, LH, DHEA-S) look normal as far as I know. My testosterone levels however, jumped up from 37 ng/dL in December to 56 now. My free testosterone is also a 12 pg/mL. Both results are shown to be higher than the average. I'm really curious as to what this means! It could still not be PCOS, but I really wonder why it went up so much! And what is there for me to do about it?
This might explain a lot about how I've been feeling the past few months too.
Anyway, I'm going to go see an endocrinologist soon too hopefully! I was just wondering if this might mean anything? Or if having levels these high are still like, sort of normal. Thanks!!

Hi

Kyoto University plans to start eliminating gender barriers by setting admission quotas for female students in its science and engineering faculties, beginning with spring enrollment in the 2026 academic year.
It said March 21 that a total of 39 female students will be admitted, adding that candidates will be assessed through comprehensive screening or recommendations from senior high schools.
“The notion that women are not suited for science and engineering is an illusion,” the university’s president, Nagahiro Minato, told a news conference.
Slots will be allocated for 15 female students in the science faculty and 24 in the engineering faculty. The quota for general selection will be reduced accordingly.
Females currently account for only 7.9 percent of the total number of students in the faculty of science and 10.1 percent in the faculty of engineering.
The preferential mechanism is expected to raise the female ratio to around 15 percent within a few years of the special quota’s introduction, officials said.
Minato pledged to eliminate gender disparities to create an ideal environment for deeper learning.
“Our approach may be regarded as one of affirmative action by giving preferential treatment to certain race groups and gender in education and employment,” he said. “But there must be a system where women can actively take on challenges.”
Like the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University is regarded as one of Japan’s top educational institutions.
Public colleges across the nation are also moving to increase the number of female students in their departments of science and engineering through dedicated quotas. Fourteen schools, including the Tokyo Institute of Technology, accepted female students under a quota system this spring.
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15212559

Hy guys. I have a problem with the flextight x5 at my university. I can’t scan 1 GB tiff no more! Whether in fff or any other setting. The zoom can’t go over 1000% on 300 PPI so 100MB (8000 x 6000 pixels) but I was kinda looking for my old 18k scans. What could be the problem and please feel free to explain in detail cause I need to convince the guy working there that it’s broken or something ain’t right. He said. It wasn’t ever able to scan that high and that it would be upscaler with an old algorithm and that I’m trying to make a 100 MP Camera out of a. 12 MP Camera, to which I was wondering if we were talking about the same hasselblad x5 but that’s besides the point. All ideas appreciated Greeting from Germany

The reason I've never been concerned by it and is because according to my mother, all the women on her side of the family have experienced irregular periods and amenorrhea also, so she's always just told me that it's normal for the women in our family and I've never had it checked out. I obviously have been to the doctor, I've gotten pap smears, etc. but no one has ever pointed out anything wrong and it's never bothered me, so I guess I've just never brought it up.
A month or two ago, I landed myself in urgent care because my dumb ass forgot to take my Effexor for a few days and was having awful withdrawal symptoms (didn't know that's what it was at the time--literally thought I was dying or something haha), and at urgent care they made me do an EKG and labs. My labs all came back relatively normal except for my thyroid results, which the provider I saw said met the definition for subclinical hypothyroidism.
I was talking to a coworker about the whole ordeal a week or so ago and said that my supposedly genetic amenorrhea/irregular periods could be due to that and I need to get it checked out ASAP. It kind of scared me a bit because I never thought much of my irregular periods, but is this something I should actually be concerned about?
If it helps, it's quite normal for me to go 6 months to a year without getting my period. It's been almost a year since I've gotten it last. My periods have gotten more irregular since high school--it used to be more common for them to show up every 3-6 months, then sometimes they'd randomly show up every single month for a few months but I'd bleed for like 2 weeks. It's really annoying because I never have any way of predicting when they're going to show up. I've realized that now at 25, it's been almost a whole year where I haven't gotten it. I've spotted once or twice way back in the fall, but no full periods.
General info: 25F, 5'8", around 210 lbs. Not a smoker of tobacco, but I do smoke weed. No other medical issues of concern--I do see a psychiatrist for medication management of my depression and anxiety, and have been diagnosed with ADHD (not on medication for that).

Round 1, Pick 21 - Chop Robinson, DE, Penn State:
NFL: I see Miami using Robinson as a rotational player early on. An A+ athlete, Robinson is a developmental prospect with first-step quickness and explosiveness but needs more consistency.
CBS Sports: A. I love this pick for Miami. He has the best first step in this draft. With a little coaching, he will become a dominant pass rusher. They can also move him around as a joker on their front. Love it.
ESPN: At some point, the Dolphins may have a lot of money tied up in their outside linebackers room. But until then, this could end up being one of the better pass-rush rotations in the NFL. Robinson recorded fewer than 12 sacks in three collegiate seasons, but his physical traits jump off the tape. He has a powerful first step and will ideally fill the rotational role left by Andrew Van Ginkel's departure. Coach Mike McDaniel loves his pass-rushers and he gets an exciting one in Robinson.
NFL Absolutely Not Fake News: Wants his face mask to be one solid piece like Master Shredder.
Round 2, Pick 55 - Patrick Paul, OT, Houston:
NFL: With the offensive tackle ranks significantly thinned, the Dolphins jumped in on Paul after going defense in Round 1. He wasn't my favorite OT prospect this year, with Paul giving me some Josh Jones vibes. His mass and reach are impressive, and he has 44 college starts at left tackle. But if Paul is Terron Armstead's eventual replacement, getting a year to develop his craft, this pick might work out.
CBS Sports: C-. Strange fit because this is one of the least mobile blockers in the class. Mike McDaniel typically prioritizes athleticism along his offensive line. Absolutely enormous with supreme length. Hand placement is very inconsistent. Gets outside the shoulder pads. Very experienced. Hits on a need.
ESPN: Offensive tackle is not an immediate need with Terron Armstead and Austin Jackson set to reprise their roles at left and right tackle, respectively. But Armstead is expected to retire after this season, and Miami had no immediate successor on its roster -- until Friday night. Paul has enviable size for the position at 6-foot-7, 330 pounds and made 44 starts for Houston at left tackle. He also registered the longest arm length of any tackle at the combine -- a trait which the Dolphins' staff loves. He's not a finished product but the opportunity to develop behind Armstead for at least a year should prove invaluable for a player the Dolphins couldn't hide their excitement about when speaking to the media after the pick.
NFL Absolutely Not Fake News: Did not manage to escape being drafted by the Browns. Oof.
Round 4, Pick 120 - Jaylen Wright, RB, Tennessee:
NFL: The Dolphins love speed, and Wright has plenty of it. He might be able to develop into Raheem Mostert's eventual replacement and a good complement to De'Von Achane. Wright has a lot of tread left on his tires but must prove he can exercise better ball security to earn that role.
CBS Sports: B-. More speed to Miami’s offense. Weight ran through some gaping holes at Tennessee but has high-end acceleration once he’s in the open field. Elusiveness is good, not amazing. Slashing style as opposed to jump-cut back. Would’ve liked to see another position addressed here, but Mike McDaniel will be happy.
ESPN: The Dolphins love speed, and Wright ran the 40-yard dash in 4.38 seconds. He also averaged 7.4 yards per carry last season for the Volunteers. He is yet another home-run hitter on an offense that already features De’Von Achane, Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and Raheem Mostert. Wright also caught 22 passes for 141 yards last season, teasing potential as a pass-catcher at the next level.
NFL Absolutely Not Fake News: Is excited for the re-release of the 1999 classic, THE MUMMY.
Round 5, Pick 158 - Mohamed Kamara, DE, Colorado State:
NFL: The final player in my last top 100 list, Kamara will have to make it in spite of his poor length, but his hell-on-wheels style and ball-hunting ability make him a fun guy to root for. Watch the Colorado game for a sneak peek of how disruptive he can be.
CBS Sports: B. Smaller EDGE who converts speed to power consistently because of low center of gravity. Burst is there as is his dip/bend around the corner. Nice collection of pass-rush moves. Gets overwhelmed a lot because of his lack of size and length. Turns 25 in his rookie season.
ESPN: Kamara was highly productive in college with 29.5 career sacks, including 13 in his final season at Colorado State. He also recorded 45.5 tackles for a loss, proving he can be a disruptive presence in the front seven. The Dolphins needed to rebuild their depth at pass rusher and may have found a steal with Kamara in the fifth round.
NFL Absolutely Not Fake News: Has a large collection of mini farm animals made of cheese in his dorm.
Round 6, Pick 184 - Malik Washington, WR, Virginia:
NFL: He wasn't going to be for every team because of his smaller frame, but in my opinion, Washington should have been drafted prior to this. His speed makes him a perfect fit in Miami, as Washington could be an ideal fourth or fifth receiver and return threat.
CBS Sports: A+. Electric, short not small wideout who was the heartbeat of the Virginia offense after transferring from Northwestern. Wins underneath with explosion and powerful lower half gives him high-end contact balance. Won’t be huge separator on full route tree. Leaper who can find it in the air. Good, not great speed. Niche type but a lot of fun.
ESPN: Washington led the nation in catches last season with 110, turning them into 1,426 yards and nine touchdowns as the focal point of Virginia's offense. He won't quite play the same role in Miami, but he's a dynamic receiver who could earn reps with a strong summer. The Dolphins' third receiver job is up for the taking.
NFL Absolutely Not Fake News: He’s convinced he could play in the league today with a leather helmet.
Round 6, Pick 198 - Patrick McMorris, S, California:
NFL: McMorris opened eyes a few years ago with a four-INT season at San Diego State and finished with a solid final year at Cal, but his average traits could always hold him back from starting duty.
CBS Sports: C. Checks size and physicality boxes but doesn’t met normal athleticism or tackling-reliability requirements. Multi-positional usage in college will help him learn the playbook in the NFL. Surprising selection.
ESPN: The Dolphins signed Jordan Poyer this offseason after losing Brandon Jones to free agency, but McMorris adds depth to the position and a potential running mate for Jevon Holland in the future. McMorris recorded 90 tackles in two separate seasons at San Diego and Cal, and is a versatile defensive back who can play multiple positions.
NFL Absolutely Not Fake News: Shocked at how much it costs to rent a jet ski nowadays.
Round 7, Pick 241 - Tahj Washington, WR, USC:
NFL: Washington's small frame likely took him off some boards, especially after he ran in the 4.5 range in the 40. But his big-play production on offense and special teams value cannot be overlooked. Washington might be the type who finds a way to hang around in the league.
CBS Sports: B+. Another springy slot option for Tua Tagovailoa. Nifty after the catch and plays with fun lateral bounce although he doesn’t appear to be top-level athlete. Can uncover underneath and has solid hands. Tiny frame and little catch radius.
ESPN: The Dolphins doubled up on wide receivers and took Washington, who recorded at least 600 receiving yards in four straight seasons. He has a similar physical build as Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle at 5-foot-10, 175 pounds, and is a solid route runner. His best bet to make the team is likely by establishing himself of special teams.
NFL Absolutely Not Fake News: Thinks sneaker heads are crazy when you can get shoes at Target for like $15.

Hey everyone,
I've been struggling with a very destructive pattern of paying for sex for some time now. I don't do it often, and bc of that I've fooled myself into believing that these act-outs are just a series of one-off events brought on by specific stressors in my life, but it has undoubtedly become a pattern and I know that I need some accountability.
For context, from a young age I've always engaged in somewhat deviant (to me) sexual behavior. I was raised very strictly catholic and from a young age was told in school that it was a sin to masturbate. I matured earlier than many boys and started masturbating in 4th grade. The first time scared the hell out of me as I had no idea what was happening. All I knew is it felt good and that I couldn't talk to it about anyone.
In 6th and 7th grade I was spying on my nextdoor neighbors. Two very attractive sisters whose room was right across the way from mine. I would watch them as they showered and changed.
Fast forward to 8th grade - I was in a serious relationship through 9th grade. This was the first time I had sex of any kind with another person. I also was cheating on her with many other girls.
Next was sophomore year of high school. The first time I experienced true love. And the first time I felt I had such a deep connection with someone else that was respectful and honest. And still I ended up cheating on her toward the end of our two years together. We remain friends to this day which I'm very thankful for, and hey it was high school - water under the bridge, young people make mistakes right? maybe, but...
Fast forward to my college years, I was in a very serious relationship for the entirety of college that culminated in marriage right out of school and a subsequent divorce a few years later. She was the one. Beautiful, smart, sexy. She had everything I wanted (or thought I wanted in my juvenile brain). But as we entered our 3rd year of dating, we began to have many serious sexual issues that we would later find out, stemmed from both of our underlying trauma surrounding sex. We continuously played out a very destructive sexual fantasy that was never explicitly spoken about until the very end of our relationship. In addition to this, I also had many emotional and physical affairs along the way.
That failed marriage prompted a complete overhaul of my life. I was devastated and I knew there were many things I needed to sort out if I was ever going to have a healthy relationship to sex and with another person. Thus, I found a therapist. An amazing therapist. I didn't realize how good he was until much later. The work we did together changed my life. I found a stable career. And I found the girl of my dreams. The relationship was calm, respectful, loving, and without the vicious ups and downs I had previously known. The sex was good and meaningful. We are still together - married with three children. And to this day I have not had any sort of emotional connection to anyone else but her.
And yet, I'm here. Early in my relationship with my now-wife, I visited a massage parlor and cheated. I talked about this with my therapist. We dug in and explored why I felt the need to do this and discovered that this acting out had very little to do with my relationship and everything to do with some unresolved issues inside of me. Thus, the advice was to not disclose the transgression to my partner as it would only cause her pain. That took me a minute to understand but I believe it was the right decision. I still do. And with time, I moved past it.
That was my only transgression for a long time. After many years of intensive therapy I was a new man, feeling more confident and secure in myself than I'd ever been. And so on my therapists advice we began to taper off on the sessions until finally we felt the bulk of our work was done and that I we would check in only on a necessary basis.
And then 3 years into my marriage, I acted out again. I visited another sex worker. I was devastated. But I felt confident that I could handle this on my own. I didn't call my therapist. I journaled, I downloaded a sober app, I conducted therapy sessions with myself, and I held myself accountable. And with time I began to feel better until the guilt faded away and after numerous successful moments where I stopped myself from acting out. This gave me a security that I might finally have kicked my issue. And so I went on with life, I didn't think of it often - only when those impulses would arise or I would catch myself drinking a bit too much and experiencing intrusive thoughts.
And then after almost 2 years of sobriety, I did again last week. And I'm crushed. It shakes the foundation I've fought so hard to build. It makes me question everything. It makes me feel like a broken person doomed to failure. And my deep fear now is that I've pathologized this behavior. I've normalized it. And that thought sends me into a panic. Is this what my life will be? Will I always have to carry around this shadow self? This is not the man I want to be. This is not the partner or father I want to be.
And what makes it that much more difficult is that my family and friends adore me. I've been referred to as "golden boy" more than a few times. I have an enviable life. And I'm the type of person who friends and family confide in and look up to. I've been told I emanate a quiet strength and people feel safe around me.
And yet, here I am with this terrible secret. I don't feel like the man people think I am or that I portray myself to be. I've called my therapist and we will speak tomorrow, but any words of encouragement or additional resources would be much appreciated. I cannot allow this to happen again. It is eating away at my heart.

Hy guys. I have a problem with the flextight x5 at my university. I can’t scan 1 GB tiff no more! Whether in fff or any other setting. The zoom can’t go over 1000% on 300 PPI so 100MB (8000 x 6000 pixels) but I was kinda looking for my old 18k scans. What could be the problem and please feel free to explain in detail cause I need to convince the guy working there that it’s broken or something ain’t right. He said. It wasn’t ever able to scan that high and that it would be upscaler with an old algorithm and that I’m trying to make a 100 MP Camera out of a. 12 MP Camera, to which I was wondering if we were talking about the same hasselblad x5 but that’s besides the point. All ideas appreciated Greeting from Germany

Hello, l'm a 15 male in high school that recently switched to online school (January), I'm worried that I'm not getting enough Vitamin D and worried about what that can cause in health issues, do I need to take this more serious? I was thinking about taking some vitamins and going out once or twice a week for a walk or something like that, as my schedule has been clear (working on it), let me know!

60f working in IT. I am struggling to do anything. I stare at my computer at work. I throw some food together for dinner. I can't respond to texts or emails. Can't do chores. Hygiene is minimal. I have no desire to do anything. This has been going on a year but much worse lately.
I live with husband and 3 grown kids. Marriage has always been terrible just no connections. I engage happily with kids, it's like a switch turns on, and when the conversation is over i go back under the covers.
I am seeing psychiatrist but last meds abilify messed up my body including alcohol cravings? I don't drink! Afraid to try another.
My kids all have adhd and ocd and i don't even know what else. All on meds. My 24 daughter never completed high school and don't know what will happen when I'm gone or can't support her anymore.
I have history of childhood trauma. No family. Lots of friends but seeing ir talking to them brings no relef.
Lots of stress. Too much land, responsibilities with house. I want to srll but my husband pushes back. I don't feel like wehave a handle on finances but husband unwilling to budget.
I think the lack of control is getting to me. He makrs all decisions and thar isn't going to change. I have anxiety about how kids were raised. (Last one graduating hs)
My husband made us move across the country 25 years ago and I've never been happy here. I kept busy. I just want to go home.
Are there any quick things i can do to engage in my job? I love my work, but it's going to be obvious soon I'm not performing.
I feel like i am dying.

OC
In the far future, mankind is surrounded by neighbours that rule over their citizens with an iron first and no regard for their happiness, either in the name of a select few families with noble blood, absolute monarchs or tyrants that claim to serve the interests of their nations while their actions suggest otherwise.
It is a sickening thought and certain individuals would not stand for this. Many species were flabbergasted when they learned so many humans were willing to meddle in the affairs of their neighbours, even more were shocked to learn that these endeavours were not funded by any human government for the sake of destabilising potential rivals.
It was a voluntary effort.
[----------------------------------------]
If Mesch could describe the current microcycle, she’d call it tiring, soul-crushing even, she had no choice but to overwork herself to pay off her debt to the state. After the brother of her father was falsely charged with high treason and shipped off, all of her immediate family-including her-was charged the appropriate price for being the acquaintance of a dissident. The dread residing in her heart only grew stronger as she made her way back to her meager apartment-dwelling, the thought of the massive debt and the cost of living only served to wear her mind down.
“Hello miss, did you know you have rights?” Mesch’s ears perked up at the sudden barrage of noise directed at her, turning to look at the source, she found a strange, seemingly furless biped looking at her. She exhaled from her snout, as if she didn’t have anything better to do…she had recently gotten off her twelfth consecutive overtime shift and the last thing the drowsy nersk needed was a speech about- “You actually do and since I’m here, I’m willing to tell you all about it” The biped was holding plenty of pamphlets in its first appendage and a clipboard in the second. Whatever it wanted to tell her must have been important enough to stand in the same spot for an indefinite amount of time, Mesch decided to humour the strange alien, stopping in her tracks and focusing exclusively on the being in front of her.
"Enlighten me then, what rights do I have?” She came to the conclusion that the alien ignored the sarcasm in her response, seeing that it was thick enough to pierce. She had nothing to her name besides the clothes on her person and what little she had in her apartment-dwelling. The alien handed her a pamphlet, why not? She had come this far, may as well go the whole way. It was written fluently in the language of her people and the information it divulged immediately drew her attention.
-The average Nerski adult works an average of ten human hours for six human days every human week with for the same criminally low wages. This is twenty nerski mini-cycles every twelve nerski micro-cycles every nerski mega-cycle. That is humiliating, grating and unacceptable. Besides being deprived of overtime rates, the average nerski adult is robbed of their sense of safety in their own dwelling, the nerski authorities need no one’s written permission to invade and sack someone’s dwelling for evidence of a crime, perceived or not. The average nerski citizen has no say in who governs them or the measures they may enact at any given moment. The average nersk is not free. But you can be, if you ask the nearest F.F.F advocate for more information. Freedom Forever Foundation-
Something just did not sit well with her about this, was she supposed to work less? Was she supposed to be paid more for the unskilled labour she provided? Was she being taken advantage of? The intrusive thoughts did not let her already weary mind rest, for she had a myriad of questions that urgently needed answering. “I…I want to know more” Mesch did not bother masking the tone of her voice, it sounded equally tired and pleading, desperate for answers to the questions that only kept appearing with each passing second.
The face of the alien brightened by a considerable amount, quickly withdrawing something from the bag on their back. In that span of seconds that felt like a lifetime she remembered the race the odd sentient in front of her belonged to, humans. Not new to FTL technology by any means, but still treated like children in many political-and social-circles thanks to being the newest addition to the Neutral Cooperation Concord. “Glad your rights concern you…this is the information kit, spread the word” A beige folder was handed to her, it was almost as thick as her arm, the scandalous information…the pull it had on her, it was hellish! The promise of relief almost made her knees buckle under the pressure of her need to know.
“One more thing…can I have your signature? I will sooner burn the page than let it fall in the hands of nerski authorities…you have my word” She didn’t need to be pressured to sign and she did so eagerly, carefully hiding the illicit materials within her clothes with shaky hands. ‘Thank-” The human did not get to thank her in time, noticing a single file line of nerski plain clothes enforcers closing in on them, picking up speed when he started backing away. “Unfortunately this is where we part ways…now go!” The last glimpse of the human she caught was him getting swarmed by the enforcers “Liberty fears no tyrant! FREEEEEEEEEEEDOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!” Mesch’s attempts at leading the human away had failed, tears threatened to spill out of the corners of her eyes the longer she ran yet she had no other choice. If only she could see him again…
Almost an entire megacycle latehuman month later…
Mesch was returning from work, this time she failed to evade the treacherous weather, opting to withstand it and head back home through the camped alleyways leading to that fabled square she had met the human at. She sighed, stopping for a bit and sitting down, squeezing her long ears to get what little water had gathered in there out again. That was when a familiar voice caressed her ears once more. “Hello miss, did you know you have rights?” Her head spun around a little too quicker than she liked, causing some pain to her neck but ultimately ignoring it in favour of finding the source of that blessed voice.
“Of course you do, you’re the first one!” The same human from before sat next to her, shielding her from most of the raindrops thanks to his larger size. “Also I’m now considered a political dissident and there’s an active warrant out for my detainment but that’s not the important thing here! It is this…” The same clipboard came into her view, this time filled with plenty more signatures and from the looks of things there were more pages under the one on top, all filled to the brim with signatures as well. “Whoever has it out for me sure doesn’t like it when people think on their own”
Mesch…was stunned, she had convinced herself the human would never see the light of day again and yet here he was, staring at her with that same smile, the same smile with the same, if not larger, amount of defiant spirit brewing behind it. “How did you?...”
"I am a vessel for liberty, as long as it exists somewhere, I will not be stopped” The human stood up and offered her his hand, she accepted it and after getting pulled up on her feet he showed her another pamphlet, this time it talked about a protest right outside the presidential palace, it was suicidal to say the least…which was why Mesch thought she had finally flown off the handle when she accepted without second-guessing herself.
“So…there are more like me?” Hope filled her heart, it was good, way too good to be true. “Not just more…way, wayyy more! Now come, I will get us there with the Liberty mobile!” She soon found herself strapped inside a vehicle of signature human design, heading straight to the presidential palace, her stomach flipping at the mere sight of the crowd gathered at the meeting point. Chanting slogans, phrases, speeches that at any other point in time she would have rejected as crazy and meant to destabilise the nation her people had built over many lifetimes. They got out and marched with the rest of the assembled nersk until they hit a chokepoint, lines upon lines of enforcers ready to meet them halfway , they were not scared or intimidated, they were ready.
Before long, either due to their own initiative or an order from a higher up, the enforcers were set loose on the crowd. Bashing, bruisng and shooting with electrically-charged pellets, trying their damnest to scare the crowd away. Mesch was scared but she would not flee, for the life she lived before this grand event was nothing more than celebrated slavery. Enforcers descended on her and the human, she was badly beaten but before any serious harm could befall her the human shielded her and proceeded to drive back the enforcers hellbent on killing her without even fighting back , the only weapon in his name was his own body and he did not use it as a weapon, only a a shield.
A few moments before she fainted from the overwhelming pain, she could hear the battle cry she had heard only once before and a sense of comfort, a painful but satisfying end to her life of misery.
This would have been the case if she hadn’t woken an indeterminate amount of time later in a hospital, with none other than the same human sitting besides her, watching her. “Slept well? You deserve it after all these bruises” It was painful to move and for the second time, she ignored it. Twisting just enough to be able to hug the human. “Thank you for everything” The human hugged her back, comforting her with the warmth only his words had provided so far. “You shouldn’t thank me, I was doing my moral duty…there is someone else you should be embracing right now” Behind the human stood another nersk, it was uncle Vinow, the same uncle that had gotten dragged off by the secret police. Tears of happiness overwhelmed her and she soon hugged both of them.
“Some sympathetic soul leaked the coordinates to several blacksites holding political prisoners and from the looks of things this isn’t the last act of defiance we’re going to be hearing about, while you were unconscious I was ferrying as many prisoners back and forth to the capital….Congratulations Mersch, your people have embraced freedom. Enjoy it, your blood, sweat and tears have finally paid off”
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[My HFY-themed discord server](http:// https://discord.gg/KQeBuv88EB)

So I am a Sophomore in high school an soon to be Junior I'm trying to weight down my options pretty quickly before Senior year and one thing that I do want to do is serve my Country, my Grandpa, My family did So I think I should and the benefits of it are just insane. Though one thing I have a question about is if I can do the Air Force reserves while in college .As I research and found that they have a tuition assistance program for those who are going to college And can end up paying 100% of my tuition in some cases, but it lets me pursue both worlds and I'm just trying to see if this a good option or not.

Here is a link to Jim anderson's gofundme . I met Jim some years back and our bond grew very strong. I was welcomed into his family with open arms. This man works hard to feed his family and raise his children. I can speak highly of this man's character, ethics, and beliefs from endless hours of conversations and moments we have shared over the years. Anybody whose ever met this man knows he has a beautiful soul and is one of the kindess people you'll ever meet. He needs a fair fight in this fucked up judicial system. Don't believe the propaganda and lies that the matrix wants you to believe. Trust In the people in our community. BRING THE TYRANTS TO JUSTICE!FREE JIM!
https://www.gofundme.com/f/stand-with-james-anderson-a-call-for-help

So... I have a rocky relationship with my mother. My aunt and uncle raised me for most of my life, but my mom stayed pretty present up until middle school when she completely vanished for a couple years. Well fast forward to present day and alot of trauma later.... I live hours away from my hometown and I only visit on the weekends I am free. When I do visit, I only want to spend time with my aunt and uncle. I haven't seen my mother in years and only speak to her occasionally. She wants to try and mend our relationship, but I really have no interest in letting her in. We hardly know each other, and it seems she is only interested in getting to know me now that I am a mildly successful adult. Sunday I messaged her happy mother's day and she hit me with "hasn't been a good day. Sat here crying and depressed but thanks I guess." She ALWAYS uses the "woes me" or "I hate my life" mentality to make me feel bad for excluding her from my life. In the moment I kinda brushed it off but two days later her comment is really starting to affect me. Can anyone else relate to their mom using guilt as a manipulation tactic? My aunt keeps nagging me to speak with her because she is my mom, but I already feel so down after that one minor interaction. I feel like nothing good can come out of having a relationship with her. Thoughts?

Good afternoon (or whatever time of day it is for you). Today is my four month sober anniversary, which is by far the longest I've gone since freshman year of college. If you're interested in how I got here, please continue reading. I hope this can help someone. Apologies for the length.
I (38, M) hit rock bottom on December 6, which was the conclusion of the heaviest year of drinking in my entire life. I was on a business trip in the city I used to live in and met up with some old friends for "a drink." Despite a heavy dinner, I still wound up completely plastered. I killed God knows how many French 75s, gin and tonics, and Sauvignon Blancs over about a 5 hour period. I generally had 2-3 drinks an hour when I went out, and am not exactly built to carry such a load (6'1" and about 155 lbs).
I made it back to my hotel and faceplanted in the lobby (which I still don't remember). I still bought a canned gin and tonic from the sundry shop after that. I stumbled to my room, called my wife, and opened the can. After a few minutes of slurring my way through the conversation, I washed my hands, and when I went to grab a towel from under the counter, I smacked the top of my head on the edge of the counter. Within seconds, I was bleeding down the front of my face like Ric Flair after taking a chair shot.
I told my wife what was up, and she said to call 9-1-1. The ambulance arrived, as did a friend my wife called and asked to hurry over. While I held a towel to the wound and answered the EMT's questions in my room, I tried to take ANOTHER swig from the G&T can. My friend pried it away. I spent the rest of the night in the ER getting six staples in my head and feeling like an asshole for taking up the valuable time of ER staff who could be treating people in real trouble. When I had to use the bathroom, they put up a curtain around me that was about chest high, and I urinated into a plastic bottle because they didn't want me walking anywhere. I was so humiliated I can't even put it into words.
I left the ER around 7 AM. I was due to fly back home the next day. I told my boss that I slipped on my hotel bath mat and had to be rushed to the ER with a head wound. I spent the day eating grease with the shades drawn and contemplating how I let my life get this out of control. Several friends called to check on me and tell me that they were disappointed in my behavior over the past year. My best friend from high school, who is like my little brother, summed it up: "I love you and will always be in your corner. But you need to get your shit together now!"
I went home, got the verbal thrashing from the Mrs. I deserved, and committed to quit. I abstained for close to a month. Had a glass of champagne on New Year's. Had a couple drinks here and there over the next couple of weeks. Then we got together with my friend and his wife for dinner on January 13 (celebrating my birthday a few days early). I decided to let loose and have another French 75. Then another. And another. We ubered home and decided to open a bottle of champagne, which I promptly drank 3/4 of myself. I woke up with a screaming hangover and decided I was done. I hadn't missed the hangovers, memory loss, and general feeling of malaise I felt for all those years.
Quitting was not easy. I actually took up smoking (again) when I quit booze and am fighting the nicotine monster now (again). I had to go to several work conferences, where people acted stunned that I didn't drink at receptions or skipped many of them completely to avoid temptation. I started seeing my therapist again and focused on some upcoming job interviews. I landed a great job just 3 weeks after I quit drinking, which wouldn't have happened if I were still on the bottle.
I am grateful to my friends and family for their encouragement. My wife is an amazing person for sticking by me the past 12 years (and many other reasons!), despite my addiction getting progressively worse throughout that time. I genuinely appreciate waking up in the morning with at worse a caffeine headache and not worrying if I offended my wife/friends/family by saying something idiotic or cruel the night before.
Please don't feel ashamed if you're in a similar mess. You can beat this. It takes significant will power and a supportive network. Get that network however you can to pick you up when you're tempted--whether that's through a group like AA, a significant other, a therapist, in-patient treatment, family, or friends. I come from a long line of alcoholics, and if it weren't for my friends (some of whom quit drinking in recent years), I wouldn't be typing this out right now. But at the end of the day, only you can take care of you. Love yourself and find supportive people. They are out there.
I'll now get back to listening to Johnny Cash and crushing this giant sandwich to celebrate sobriety!
TL;DR: I busted my head open on my hotel bathroom counter on December 6, spent the night in the ER, and got six stitches in my scalp. I quit drinking for a month, thought I had it under control, but after one night of heavy drinking, decided I was done. Today is my four month anniversary.