TL;DR: I started dating an inexperienced relationship-wise guy and he has never called me pretty even once, only having complimented my body and clothes and personality but had even pointed out some flaws of mine (like a pimple or a birthmark on my teeth). It’s very important for me to feel desired and attractive in a relationship and this is making me feel a bit insecure. I wouldn’t want to keep dating him if he doesn’t find me attractive, and would prefer to date someone else. From the attention I get from others, I can say I’m generally an attractive girl and never had such issues.
More details:
There’s this guy I started dating. I was attracted to him the first time I saw him in the place we met. I sent him a random message at one point and that’s how we started talking and he asked me out.
After we started going out, he asked me what my first impression of him was and I told him that I had found him attractive. I asked him what HIS first impression was but it seemed like there was nothing much to it, he just had a random thought about me. Hearing that, I asked him if he actually told me to go out with him because he liked me and not just because he just went with the flow or because it simply happened. He said that he did like me.
Later on, in our dates, he has never called me pretty or anything of the sort regarding my appearance, but he HAS given me compliments about my body and my clothes. On other occasions, when I ask him how he feels about me, he usually tells me something along the lines of “I love how much of a good person you are. I love our vibe together. I like that you’re cheerful etc etc” I know that’s supposed to be a “non shallow” thing to say but I really want to hear him say he likes the way I look and that he actually finds me attractive.
Then today, we went out again, but he seemed slightly down/ less energetic and less nervous than usual, and I got the sense as if he was slightly put off and as if he was seeing my flaws in a way? I asked him whether something was up and whether he was okay and he told me he just felt more “down to earth” and not to take offence. For me that sounded like he didn’t like how I looked today? That maybe the spark between us dimmed a bit? I don’t know - like he was seeing my flaws? It made me feel insecure and I started overthinking. He even pointed out I had a pimple on my face and at a different time, that I had another small flaw in my teeth.
When we got a bit more physical he seemed like he was back to normal and he seemed to be attracted to me. But idk, afterwards he still had that weird look on his face. On the other hand I tend to overthink like CRAZY. Especially if I don’t feel secure, like in this case, I will go crazy with analysing every single thing and jump to conclusions.
For me, it’s very important to feel desired by the person I’m seeing. I think I’m generally a good looking girl, I’m constantly getting compliments and attention from other guys/ I’ve noticed having pretty privilege etc. And because I was raised in a pretty toxic way regarding beauty, it’s very important to me for him to find me physically attractive and to express it to me. I don’t want to date someone who’s maybe only into my body or just because it happened and he went with the flow.
What do I do? I like him, and I want to keep seeing him but this situation is starting to get a bit painful for me and it’s making me a bit insecure even though I’m normally not that much. What one finds attractive is very subjective and he doesn’t have to like me, but If he doesn’t, I just want to know, move on and find someone else who does.
I want to talk about this with him but I don’t want to seem insecure or vain or even indirectly force him to tell me I’m pretty (even though perhaps he doesn’t even see me that way?). Some other notes: He’s very inexperienced, I’m his first relationship. 20m and 23F. We’ve been dating for one month now.
Any help is appreciated

Ingrown hair presents as reddish bumps on the skin, resembling pimples. In men, they often appear on the cheeks, chin, and neck, while in women, they tend to occur on the lower limbs, pubic region, and armpits. Common symptoms include itching and the presence of hair despite shaving. Ingrown hair is generally not a serious condition but can be bothersome when they lead to darkened skin or scars.
Genital warts affect both men and women. After exposure to HPV, there is a latency period of a few weeks to months before the warts become externally visible. They are typically painless, itchy, and only occasionally cause bleeding. Common areas affected include the penis, urethra, scrotum, vulva, labia majora, vagina, cervix, and the area around the anus. Genital warts can vary in size, ranging from 1mm to several centimeters, and may have a cauliflower-like appearance.

I am 16 years old. Throughout my early childhood, my parents did nothing but physically/verbally abuse me and emotionally neglect me. They never did anything with me, never let me hang see friends outside of school, and pretty much made sure that i’m alive. My older sister would bully me every day about every aspect of myself, even down to the stupidest shit like the month my birthday is in. She is the reason for almost all of my insecurities
I have a huge love for music. I started playing guitar about two years ago, and at first it was a good escape, but it’s seeming like it’s done more harm than good to me. I’ve had a couple of shitty friends in the past who would make fun of me (either to my face or behind my back) about my appearance and musical abilities. I picked this thing up 2 fucking years ago. Obviously i’m not gonna be Jimmi Hendrix. I still try to play regularly, but it’s so hard for me to keep motivation for more than a couple of minutes and not give up.
Every time things finally start to look up for me, it gets ruined by either something or someone. I’ve tried to make myself feel better by working out, journaling, and going on really long walks. Nothing works. Nothing matters because the moment i step back in my room, i’m met with the fact that this is my reality and this is who i am which causes my thoughts to spiral down every single night. The smallest inconveniences end up ruining my day. I cant look at myself in the mirror without feeling disgusted at the creature thats staring back at me. I’ve even made new friends who genuinely care and support me, but for some reason it’s not enough.
My parents don’t abuse me anymore and my sister stopped bullying me, but i have 0 relationship with them and everyone else in my family. I don’t talk to anyone besides a couple surface level interactions, but it doesn’t matter because the damage is already done. I feel like I’ll never be a real person or accomplish anything in my life. I want to run away but i know i’m just gonna get caught. Suicide feels like the only way out. Why does this have to be my life? Why is this who I have to be? Why can’t i just enjoy my life as a teenager? Fuck those guys. Fuck my family. Fuck my life.

GREETINGS FROM OZ!
Firstly, thank you so much for clicking on my post!
If you’re on the search for constantly shifting power dynamics, chemistry and tension so thick you could cut it, then you’re in the right place!
I’m looking to write a long-term dark-romance story with someone who can capture emotion, vividly written senses, and near-disastrous chemistry. I want to weave together two characters that hate each other so terribly that they burn for one another, and it only leaves them hating each other more. I’m cruel to my characters like that, but it always makes for a delicious tale!
(Also please excuse this formatting. Reddit tends to mess with what I have, and this is the only way I can make it nice to read.)
ABOUT ME
✧ 28YO
✧ Advanced literate writer
✧ 10+ years writing experience
✧ Third person perspective
✧ Multi-paragraph to novella posts
✧ Discord, Reddit or other platform friendly
✧ Happy to OOC chatter, but respects personal boundaries
✧ Your character will have a fan base, and than fan base will be me
✧ Actively advances plot
✧ Happy to plan, organise and discuss ideas but also a love of keeping some things secret and spontaneous
✧ NSFW friendly, seeking adult themes
WRITING SAMPLE
✧ Writing Sample
CHARACTER PREFERENCE
I’m currently looking to write a male character as my main. I do love writing masculine men that have multiple layers and a bit of gruffness to their exterior; I find them so much more delicious to torment. In contrast, I can also write leaner men with slightly more feminine features; that appear beautiful but are deadly sharp.
✧ I’m looking to write a switch/versatile male character.
✧ I’m hoping to find someone who is also looking to write a switch/versatile male character, or even dom/top leaning.
WORD BANK
Enemies-to-allies-to-lovers, hate-fuelled passion, banter, intense chemistry, “I hate you so much I burn for you”, yearning, masculine men, alliance of convenience, against all odds, morally grey, denial, fighting as flirting, competition, prolonged palpable tension, “just kiss already, dammit”
IDEAS
“Captive Prince” Inspired Spinoff
✧ The continent is split into many Kingdoms, two of which neighbours and have been at war for a great length of time.
✧ My character (MC) is the sole legitimate son of King A, and has served as his father's General throughout his early twenties. He's an esteemed warrior, a battle-hardened man, and extremely devout to his father's cause. In battle, MC kills the young King Bof their enemy Kingdom. However, a little while after he returns home, King A/MC’s father dies and MC’s been framed with the murder. MC is taken prisoner by his jealous half-brother (who's made the elaborate scheme) and told that he's to be given to their enemy kingdom as a slave—amidst dozens of other slaves to be gifted to the enemy kingdom as "good will" while MC’s bastard half-brother ascends the throne and seeks to make peace.
✧ Your character (YC) is the brother of the fallen, young King B and now sole remaining heir to the enemy kingdom. Having now inherited the crown, YC ascends as King, and receives the shipment of slaves sent to him as a token of good faith in attempt to broker a peace deal (this could be to their disgust, or hold cultural significance). YC is, however, told that one particular slave has been explicitly sent as his gift (MC), and that refusal of such a slave would be to elicit further war. YC has no choice but to accept the slave…who just so happens to be the rightful Crown Prince (MC) and murderer of his brother. But does YC recognise his brother’s murderer? Does he recognise that the “slave” he’s been sent is the rightful King of the other kingdom?
✧ I'd love to explore starkly different cultures and the shock faced when MC is thrust into the unknown. I'd also love to develop political intrigue, espionage, and more. Besides, what better way is there to force these two unlikely characters together than the need for an ally?
✧ Perhaps YC is nearly assassinated, and recognises that MC has skills able to keep him safe. Similarly, perhaps MC knows that he'd have no chance to escape his servitude alive if the King is killed, and instead plots to escape while protecting the King, with the goal to return to his kingdom and kill his bastard half-brother as revenge.
✧ I imagine their relationship in public to be very stony, with examples of "ownership" in order to keep the court gossips from spreading rumours. Despite whatever intimacy they find behind closed doors (if at all), I imagine that they would have to participate in court theatrics and games so that no one questions their relationship. After all, I doubt the court nobles would take well to their new young King having feelings for his slave—as it’s one thing to own one, and another to actually care for them.
✧ If YC recognises MC, then I also imagine that, given MC killed YC’s brother, the previous King, in combat, that there would be some very hard feelings there. A potential reason for the hatred, on top of sheer bias as result of the two countries being long-term enemies. However, the hatred between people and the general scorn YC may feel would be enough for a sour relationship.
✧ I do, however, imagine that MC would be far more trouble behind closed doors. While in the public eye, he understands that his behaviour is a reflection upon YC and would likely result in severe punishment. So, he avoids it, even if he has to bite his cheek until it bleeds and participate in petty, little games. Behind closed doors, however, I imagine he is far more likely to try and push YC beyond his limit, the two perhaps even getting physical during a fight. If all this boils over into passion, then that’s the dream!
✧ I see there being no true “role” between either characters, as there’s a deeper power struggle occurring. While one holds possession of the other (MC being owned by YC), behind closed doors would be entirely different. Their relationship would be complex, dynamic, and forever changing. I’d much prefer for their roles to be just as fluid, and entirely dependent on the specific situation rather than pre-defined. In all actuality, I see both characters vying for dominance over the other, until they settle into intimacy and understanding.
YOUR IDEAS
Please feel free to pitch your own ideas! If they have these key elements (chemistry, tension, boiling hatred), then I’d be more than interested to hear them!
THANK YOU!
Thank you so much for your time and attention, I really appreciate it!
Have an awesome day,
Smoulder 🔥

I lived in Riyadh as a child under the age of 10 in the period from 1977-1983. My parents were expats, both working at King Saud University. When we arrived King Khalid was there, and when we left King Fahd had recently become king.
In June 2024, I went back to visit Riyadh after 42 years. During my visit I tried to find some features from my childhood, but it was quite difficult. The only ones I was able to find were the Riyadh water tower and the antiques auction at Souk al-Zal.
I hope to return to Riyadh in October to explore the new city while advancing my archaeology of the past. I appreciate any help with the following:
1) Where was the physics department of the King Saud University (KSU) in 77-82? The current campus location is different from where it was then.
2) Where was the Manarat-ur-Riyadh school grades 1-5 building in 77-82? The current location is different from where it was then.
3) Where is the gated faculty compound where KSU faculty lived in 77-82? Back then it was called the "Diriya compound". It consisted of about 30-40 two-tone apartment buildings, each with ~4 floors with 4 apartments on each floor. The apartments had open balconies. The compound had a supermarket and a mosque and a sports center. At the time the compound was surrounded by nothing but desert. Driving from the compound to the KSU campus one drove along a road where at one point a long wall would appear on one side of the road. There were more than 10 driveway doors in this wall, each with guards, and the building was referred to by my parents as "the palace".
4) There was a ~40 story brown building (or two perhaps adjacent to each other) built in this time period, ostensibly to encourage the bedouin to move to Riyadh. I don't recall them being inhabited. Where are these buildings now? At the time they may have been the tallest in the city.
5) My memory is that the Riyadh water tower was in the center of a traffic circle or rounda-about. Is this accurate, or was it always a park as it is now?
Is there any on-line or in-person historical archive of Riyadh? Any historical archive of the King Saud university? Any historical archive of the Manarat-ur-Riyadh school? I made a friend during the trip who may be willing to help research in person but I need pointers to help narrow the search. I Appreciate your help. Google and Google maps only get me so far.
Kind regards, Bilal

At the typical age of around 12/13, I developed feelings for both the same and opposite gender. Feelings that were generally more about physical attributes, not someone's personality, leaning more towards boys my age. However, it was very difficult for me to find out if what I felt was physical attraction or admiration. There's a difference between the two. Do I like them because I want to be them, or cause I want to be with them?
C2 [U1] attraction - Cambridge Dictionary the feeling of liking someone, especially sexually, because of the way they look or behave:
B2 admiration - Cambridge Dictionary to respect and approve of someone or their behaviour.
Considering I didn't quite know what to do with these feelings, and how to interpret them, I decided to bury them deeply. And as a result, avoided intimacy altogether, fueled by anxiety to confront these feelings if and when they resurfaced. Moreover, I had to determine what weighed heavier. The burden of carrying all the prejudice, or living an inauthentic life. In theory I could've started a relationship with a girl at this age, but stalling self-acceptance can alter your self image and confidence, as well as your ability to open up, perhaps leading you to avoid intimacy completely. There's many psychological factors at play for wanting to avoid it. If you're not comfortable with what you are, people can choose to avoid intimacy altogether - as was the case in my situation. Not because I wasn't attracted to them, but because I couldn't be transparent. I wasn’t even honest with myself, let alone someone else.
REACTION FORMATION:
Because of wanting to get rid of certain feelings, I exposed myself to as much anti-Igbtq sentiment as possible. I created friendships strengthened by our shared disapproval of this movement, using derogatory words like 'f*g', 'homo' and 'gay' (in a negative sense) almost daily. Additionally, I frequently used 'kanker' (meaning cancer) as a hurtful adjective before these words, a common practice in the Netherlands. I took down pride flags sometimes. I stated conversion therapy works.
Looking back, you could see this as a form of reaction formation or projection. Reaction formation is a psychological phenomenon used to manipulate people into thinking something about you that's contrary to what your feelings truly contain. Projection is sometimes fuelled by jealousy & envy, towards someone who already has something that you don't, in my case; the environment & self-acceptance to be who they wanted to. Not to say all anti-Igbt people are closeted, as suggested by author Dan Savage, that's just taking it to the extremes again. But, in my case specifically, these psychological tools were intended to sketch a different image of myself to outsiders, almost like a form of deception to protect me from prejudice, even if temporary.
I expressed my disapproval of gay and bisexual people in certain awareness lessons we had in college. Not just that, but individuals that did choose to be transparent about their sexuality, I slandered verbally during college and high-school, either in their face directly or without their knowledge. I had done this for roughly 8 years. Out of fear of not being taken as seriously in social settings, or being harmed physically or verbally. This wasn't because I hated what I was. I didn't. This was a protective mechanism.
There were a couple of times where this façade was almost breached. It genuinely felt like everything came crumbling down. Heartrate skyrocketing, inflammation of my skin, dizziness and confusion. Moments like those definitely show the subconscious significance. This is a prime example of how suppression and reaction formation cannot change what you truly are. This was only a handful of times though, I had done a great job of pushing this artificial version of me to outsiders. Perhaps to a point where it's basically irreversible.
NUMBNESS
The problem with living inauthentically for such a prelonged period of time, especially in those neuroplastic younger years where you're meant to be experimenting, is that you start losing your sense of identity and presence. I was never depressed, it seems more like I was developing something psychologists tend to call derealisation. Almost like you're detached from your surroundings, a coping mechanism formed in the brain, seemingly to deal with this deception and inner conflict. Living in the passenger seat of your own life. One time, while I was on my way to Mexico from Amsterdam, the first time I had traveled alone, at 18 -- I didn't feel a single thing. Just neutrality. Even when seeing the beautiful landscapes and beaches in real life for the first time, not even once did I feel anything that came close to excitement or nervousness. Almost like watching life pass you by. How's that possible? My first time traveling alone, to another continent no less, for three months - and I don't feel a single thing. I still don't fully understand why. Another example was when I had my exams this year. Not a single form of nerve. When I traded financial derivatives like futures & options at incredibly high leverage, or played roulette in the middle of the night, or when my crypto wallet got drained by a smart contract exploit -- the total losses ramped up to about €25,000 in total. Not once did I have any reaction to it. It's quite a substantial amount at my age at the time (17). I realized that when I had told a colleague about losing five grand in a single day, and he looked me dead in the eyes and said: "You know that's not normal, right?". I guess that might not be caused by inner suppression alone, but it's probably a factor in it. I never quite felt any excitement or nerves in situations as such, perhaps powered by the derealisation mentioned before. I seemingly had built myself up to become numb against stimulation. I interpreted this lack of emotion as maturity. Being decoupled from your life, you never stand still to think about if your actions (or lack thereof) can have consequences on the long term, thus also resulting in a general lack of motivation in daily life.
Only a while back, when I started reflecting on my past, did I stop to think about how much this could impact me on the longer term. Maybe causing an inability to build up true authentic relationships in the long run, perhaps even permanently. Regardless of those relationships being with men or women. Creating true authentic relationships is supposed to be such a big part of what makes life enjoyable. Avoiding it for the sake of avoiding confrontation isn't the best way to live life.

I have noticed I tend to hate the female body. I believe the lie that women's bodies are inherently sexual(intellectually I know that is not true).That's why I almost hate women. (Tho I don't hate myself). I hate sex ,sexuality and sexual expression and everything to do with reproduction(tho I don't hate babies).I hate how women are synonymous with sexuality . I hate how women are soft and pliable - both physically mentally and sexually(In this case I do hate myself) . I hate that men like that and women consent to it. I hate how women sexualise themselves. The word slut almost comes out of my mouth.I hate that.I don't want to say women are to blame for men's lasciviousness. I really don't want to make life difficult for those who are already in degrading position.Becuase I know blaming women will definitely make life difficult for them.I don't want to hate fellow women . Give me some honest advice or some sense knocked into me. Am I just obsessed with purity who can't deal with women's right to freedom of expression? Am I conservative? Or do my feelings have any base in reality?
I am sorry if this was unhinged. But feel free to provide any alternative ways to this irrational self disgust.

Not sure if celebration really fits but I'm happy about this so whatevs.
I was making art in the trans academy world and gotnapproached by some guys who were there to troll people but it didn't seem to be in bad faith so it was alright. Interacting with them lead me to getting into a very long discussion with a guy who was there but wasn't trans and wasn't very knowledgeable on trans issues. I won't go over the whole debate but it was very chill and respectful and he didn't seem to be coming from a place of hatred but rather confusion. I was trying to explain to him the difference between gender and sex, and how one cannot define a man or woman by physical traits because there will always be outliers which means cis women and cis men are being excluded from these definitions. It was getting pretty circular but he was starting to come around when, of course, my headset died. We added each other beforehand so I'll talk to him again at some point, it's just such a wonderful experience to ha e a real discussion with someone who just genuinely doesn't get it and, though resistant, is still open to changing their mind. Tysm for taking the time to check out this post, hope youre doing well 🏳️‍⚧️🏳️‍⚧️🏳️‍⚧️

Dearest Heavenly Father, we pray to you for inner peace for our ailments to be put at the foot of the cross. In two weeks I get scans from my kidney cancer, which was curative with surgery. I ask that the next 14 days lift me up in prayer for confidence that everything is going to be OK praying to Saint Peregrine and to all those who are suffering Mental and physical ailments. St Dymphna too. God bless to all. Jesus Christ is the Lord.
Danny ✝️❤️🙏

The figure of the Mesopotamian "Anu" corresponds to what is commonly referred to as "Adam Kadmon" in Hebrew culture; who is sometimes interpreted as the First Man but called the "cosmic man" and not the "earthly man" (because there was another Adam according to Hebrew tradition who was the "earthly man" instead) – and this "cosmic" or "heavenly man" is thus Adam Kadmon and he corresponds to the Sumerian Anu and Greek Uranus.
But on other occasions Adam Kadmon is instead worshipped as "god" himself and as the purest manifestation of god – so in that case Anu/Uranus is interpreted as God and the first man Adam is instead considered to be equivalent with the "earthly Adam" mentioned previously, and not with the "cosmic one" in those cases. So traditions are ambivalent towards him – because they still consider him as occupying the slot of the "first man" thus having embodied the position of the "cosmic" man and first creation ever created; but then at the same time he’s also regarded as being equivalent with God himself in other stories – so in those cases the position of Adam is instead occupied by the earthly Adam instead, the "other" Adam (called "Adam Ha’Rishon" in Hebrew meaning "the earthly Adam"; who is distinguished from "Adam Qadmon" which is the "cosmic Adam").
The fact that Uranus is the first Adam or the "cosmic Adam" i.e. Adam Kadmon – is also apparent in the description of the creation of the first couple of beings called "Adam and Eve" (because as stated in previous posts there was more than one couple of individuals who bore the names "Adam and Eve") – and Uranus and Gaia being the first set of "Adams and Eves" ever (the first ones who bore those names ever); they were claimed in Greek mythology to have been born conjoined or "united" originally; with Uranus pointing upwards thus being "the sky" and Gaia pointing downwards thus being "the earth". This is why Uranus was called the sky (among other reasons) and Gaia was addressed as the earth.
Likewise when Adam Kadmon is created – Hebrew culture stated that he was conjoined with his twin-sister Eve and Adam was said to have had his face pointing towards the sky while Eve had her face pointing down towards the earth according to Rabbinical writings. This was the original "man-woman" united called Adam Kadmon – who corresponds to the first ever couple called "Adam and Eve" and to Uranus and Gaia themselves.
An image of a mosaic of Uranus (Roman: Caelus) and Gaia (Roman: Terra or Tellus) inside the garden – with the symbols of the twelve zodiac signs and four seasons around them (the four seasons being represented by their four children): https://commons.m.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Aion_mosaic_Glyptothek_Munich_W504.jpg#mw-jump-to-license These symbologies were placed to indicate that at the time when they ruled on earth the seasons were continuously fertile and plants were producing fruits all year long – which is exactly what’s stated in the Bible – which claims that the Garden had all the plants that produced good fruits to eat and good vegetables for consumption – and that these plants would keep producing and giving off fruits all year-long since artificial conditions had been created on earth that made it so that this was the case for plants and fruits. And not coincidentally the first man Adam Kadmon is also depicted while surrounded by the 12 zodiac signs in Hebrew culture and he’s called the "man inside the zodiac" himself (just like in the mosaic with Aion/Uranus).
This was the first couple of beings called "Adam and Eve". Then – as mentioned in this other post as well: https://www.reddit.com/EsotericOccult/s/Ve7RWrSWkN; there was another set of "Adam and Eve" who were Hades (the young brother of Persephone, the twin-god of death) and Persephone herself (who was the twin-goddess of death); and they were kicked out of the Garden for their transgression of being romantic partners. This subsequent couple of individuals who were also called "Adam and Eve" themselves – is sometimes addressed with the proper names "Adam and Eve" in the Bible (for example when they eat the fruit and they are kicked from the garden) – but they are confused as being the same Adam and Eve as the first ones (i.e. Uranus and Gaia) due to confusion (so the myths of the "second Adam and Eve" were then confused with the ones of the "first Adam and Eve" – and the mythologies of both were thus fused together into a single account because they were believed to be one and the same people due to confusion and due to the overlapping of figures who bore the same names despite being multiple distinct individuals); but then at other times this second set of "Adam and Eve" (Hades and Persephone) are instead addressed with other names in the Bible; like for example the second Adam (who corresponds to "Dionysus" or to the "younger version of Hades" who’s the brother of Persephone) being also addressed with the name "Seth" by the Bible or the woman being addressed as "Lilith" when she was banished. (Seth was claimed to have been a copy of Adam since he looked exactly like him and was created "in the image of Adam" according to the Bible in Genesis 5:3; so Seth himself was essentially a second Adam or a copy/clone of Adam and they were indistinguishable because of that. He was technically the "third Adam" created because there had also been an even earlier "earthly Adam" who was created after Uranus i.e. after Adam Kadmon, but this first "earthly Adam" was claimed to have died, so he was replaced by Seth – and this previous earthly Adam corresponds to Abel the brother of Cain; but since Abel had been killed, Seth remained as the only Adam available after Adam Kadmon/Uranus).
But one thing that was to common to all of them is that both sets of Adams and Eves were claimed to have done a "transgression" at some point in the their lives: the "first transgression" of the first couple called "Adam and Eve" i.e. Uranus and Gaia; was that the woman (in this case "Gaia") betrayed the husband (Adam/Uranus) and joined the Serpent (Cronus) having an evil son with him i.e. Cain (who corresponds to "Typhon" in Greek mythology as the offspring of Cronus and Gaia). Typhon will then murder Zeus (or "mutilate" him out of jealousy – like Cain did with Abel and Set with Osiris; and not coincidentally Horus is then born as a replacement for Osiris much like Seth is born to be a replacement for the dead Abel).
On the other hand the "second transgression" of the second couple called "Adam and Eve" i.e. Hades/Dionysus (the younger Hades) and Persephone – was that they discovered each other’s "nakedness" and shared their sexuality with each other; when in fact they were brother and sister and that was something that was forbidden (Uranus and Gaia and the other gods usually married their "half-sisters" or "half-brothers", not full siblings) – but in this case the two siblings were much more related to each other so it was considered sinful and a transgression.
As a quick note: the reason why Uranus is claimed to be the son of Gaia in Greek mythology – is only because Tiamat herself (the Babylonian goddess who was said to have given birth the gods) also came to be worshipped as the "Mother Earth" at some point and Tiamat was the mother of Anu, so she was sometimes confused with his wife Ki (the earth) i.e. Gaia because Tiamat was also worshipped as Gaia as well at some point. So Uranus was the son of Gaia but not the one "Gaia" who was his wife i.e. the Mesopotamian "Ki" – and he was instead the son of the one "Gaia" who was equated with Tiamat and who was a previous Gaia herself.
The Sibylline Oracles (a work written in Greek which explained how Hebrew, early Christian and Greek culture all speak of the same events only called with different names – and these cultures thus all have common origins) states flat out that Uranus and Gaia were the first couple of human beings – and that they were the first "intelligent" or "sentient" humans because everyone around them were savages at the time when they lived. The Sibylline work then explains how nobody knew the real names of Uranus and Gaia but that they were called with the names "Uranus" and "Gaia" only posthumously by people who worshipped them after their deaths. Uranus kept himself in the skies and didn’t want to have much contact with earth (he did live on earth but most of the time he didn’t spend his life on earth – he was in "paradise") whilst Gaia spent most of her time on earth instead; especially when she left Uranus and the two became separated, so she was called "the earth" as a result. The Greek translation for the term "Adam Kadmon" was not out of coincidence "Adam Ouranios" or "οὐράνιος ἄνθρωπος" (Ouranios Anthropos) meaning "heavenly man" – "heaven" being the word "Ouranos"; or he was also referred to as "Adam Elyon" and "Adam Ilah'ah" meaning "Supreme Adam" or "Higher Adam", the one "who’s above".
The terms "Elyon" and "Ilah'ah" will then be kept intact when Adam Kadmon will come to be worshipped as a "god" instead of a man by some other cultures (the Hebrews only worshipped "one god" – so to them it was forbidden to call anyone else with the title "God" or to state that anyone else is a "divinity" outside of the "one god", because it was forbidden according to their culture – and because of this – in the Bible we have all of these pagan deities who are addressed as mere "men and women" or as simple "humans" by the Bible itself as a result of this culture, when in fact they were actually all of them gods and they were even worshipped as "deities" in other cultures as well) – but this didn’t stop other groups of Semites who practiced polytheism to address these other figures as "gods" instead; because they didn’t have these kinds of problems in their cultures so they straight up worshiped these "first men" or "first humans" as deities in their own right and even called them with divine titles; which is why Adam Kadmon was worshipped as the god "El" (which is what the title "Ilah’ah" actually means – it’s an aspired way of pronouncing the word "El" or "Il" as "Ilah") and this one "El" was worshipped as the "highest above all others" – so this is why the epithet "Elyon" (Most High) was applied to him (this deity also appears in the Bible with his title "Elyon" in Deuteronomy 32:8).
Originally the Hebrews were polytheists as well (because the polytheistic cultures were actually the oldest ones and the Hebrew Bible is derived from them) – but after they became monotheists (first going through a phase of monolatry for some time and then becoming straight up monotheists completely) – the Hebrews rewrote the Bible multiple times and by the time they’d become full monotheists they rewrote the Bible removing all of the divine titles and the references to different "gods" throughout the Bible itself; and as such they wrote that Adam, Eve – the Patriarchs and the children of Israel were all mere "men and women" and they were simple "humans" who followed "the one and only god"; when instead originally in the previous polytheistic traditions – the original traditions claimed that these figures were all gods, and that they followed their "chief" who was the supreme god among them and he ruled over these "lesser gods" or – "gods who were lower in rank" when compared to him – but they were still all gods nonetheless, equal to him in terms of titles and dignity or "godhood". He was just the chief over them though.

I was off the market in a toxic but otherwise loving and deep relationship for 4 years. I almost proposed. Had the ring. I’m honestly struggling with being alone again. I started with high expectations, high standards, and clear goals. Then I downloaded OLD apps… I was depressed. I’m sorting through single moms, tattoos, numerous face piercings, clear mental illness, morbid obesity, tons of fake accounts and spam.
Moderately attractive, average women acting like princesses. Actually hot women are acting like royalty. Putting effort in feels pointless.
I asked out several med students and had alright dates. Neither looked like their photos. I’ve learned to mentally subtract makeup/filters and add 30 lbs to estimate someone’s true appearance. I’m 27, lots of gen z memes and phrases I don’t get. I pay on dates and barely get a thank you. I don’t say anything weird or sexual and feel used for my time, energy, and attention. Long term, I do want to t marriage and kids - with a smart, feminine, fit, moderately attractive woman. At this stage, I’m just trying to get laid and have fun, but that seems challenging. Barely getting matches. Watching videos on the algorithms, social norms, etc. I’m a fit, muscular, attractive young guy. 5’10”. White collar remote job and STEM education. Great sense of humor. At what point is it just not worth it as a guy to pursue women, pay, put effort in, etc?
My positive solutions so far: apps aren’t real life. I know I’m a 7-8 in real life. I know men don’t get attention on apps. I know to FaceTime first, screen for red flags, etc. I’m just not sure where else to meet people. I had a relatively easier time getting dates and getting laid in college. It was never super easy, but it wasn’t like this. Tinder support confirmed I’m not shadow banned and my account is working.

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages worldwide, enjoyed by millions for its rich flavor and stimulating effects. Beyond its delightful taste and aroma, coffee offers a variety of health and lifestyle benefits that make it a valuable addition to your daily routine. Here are some compelling reasons to savor your coffee guilt-free.

Health Benefits

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Coffee is loaded with antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body. These antioxidants can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain cancers.
2. Improved Cognitive Function: The caffeine in coffee acts as a stimulant that can enhance brain function. It improves various aspects of brain function, including memory, mood, vigilance, energy levels, reaction times, and general cognitive function.
3. Boosts Physical Performance: Caffeine stimulates the nervous system, signaling fat cells to break down body fat. It also increases adrenaline levels in the blood, which prepares your body for physical exertion. This can improve physical performance and endurance, making coffee a popular pre-workout beverage.
4. Reduced Risk of Certain Diseases: Regular coffee consumption has been linked to a lower risk of several serious conditions, including type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and liver diseases. Studies suggest that compounds in coffee may have protective effects on the liver and brain.
5. Supports Heart Health: Moderate coffee consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of heart failure and stroke. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in coffee may contribute to these heart-protective effects.

Lifestyle Benefits

1. Enhanced Social Interaction: Coffee often plays a central role in social interactions. Meeting friends or colleagues for coffee can strengthen social bonds and provide an opportunity for meaningful conversation and connection.
2. Increased Alertness and Focus: Many people rely on coffee to wake up in the morning or to stay alert during long work hours. The caffeine in coffee improves focus and concentration, helping you stay productive and attentive.
3. Mental Well-being: The act of enjoying a cup of coffee can be a comforting ritual that provides a moment of relaxation and mindfulness. This small daily pleasure can contribute to overall mental well-being and reduce stress.
4. Cultural Experience: Coffee has a rich cultural heritage and is enjoyed in various forms around the world. Exploring different types of coffee and brewing methods can be a fun and educational experience, deepening your appreciation for this beloved beverage.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

1. Support for Sustainable Practices: Many coffee producers are committed to sustainable farming practices that protect the environment. By choosing coffee that is certified organic or fair trade, you can support these efforts and contribute to the well-being of coffee-growing communities.
2. Economic Impact: Coffee production provides livelihoods for millions of people worldwide. By purchasing coffee from reputable sources, you help sustain the economies of coffee-growing regions and support fair wages and working conditions for farmers.

In summary, coffee offers a multitude of benefits that extend beyond its delicious taste. From health advantages and enhanced cognitive function to social and cultural enrichment, coffee is a versatile beverage that can positively impact various aspects of your life. So go ahead, brew yourself a cup, and enjoy all that coffee has to offer.Coffee is one of the most popular beverages worldwide, enjoyed by millions for its rich flavor and stimulating effects. Beyond its delightful taste and aroma, coffee offers a variety of health and lifestyle benefits that make it a valuable addition to your daily routine. Here are some compelling reasons to savor your coffee guilt-free.Health BenefitsRich in Antioxidants: Coffee is loaded with antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body. These antioxidants can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain cancers.
Improved Cognitive Function: The caffeine in coffee acts as a stimulant that can enhance brain function. It improves various aspects of brain function, including memory, mood, vigilance, energy levels, reaction times, and general cognitive function.
Boosts Physical Performance: Caffeine stimulates the nervous system, signaling fat cells to break down body fat. It also increases adrenaline levels in the blood, which prepares your body for physical exertion. This can improve physical performance and endurance, making coffee a popular pre-workout beverage.
Reduced Risk of Certain Diseases: Regular coffee consumption has been linked to a lower risk of several serious conditions, including type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and liver diseases. Studies suggest that compounds in coffee may have protective effects on the liver and brain.
Supports Heart Health: Moderate coffee consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of heart failure and stroke. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in coffee may contribute to these heart-protective effects.Lifestyle BenefitsEnhanced Social Interaction: Coffee often plays a central role in social interactions. Meeting friends or colleagues for coffee can strengthen social bonds and provide an opportunity for meaningful conversation and connection.
Increased Alertness and Focus: Many people rely on coffee to wake up in the morning or to stay alert during long work hours. The caffeine in coffee improves focus and concentration, helping you stay productive and attentive.
Mental Well-being: The act of enjoying a cup of coffee can be a comforting ritual that provides a moment of relaxation and mindfulness. This small daily pleasure can contribute to overall mental well-being and reduce stress.
Cultural Experience: Coffee has a rich cultural heritage and is enjoyed in various forms around the world. Exploring different types of coffee and brewing methods can be a fun and educational experience, deepening your appreciation for this beloved beverage.Environmental and Ethical ConsiderationsSupport for Sustainable Practices: Many coffee producers are committed to sustainable farming practices that protect the environment. By choosing coffee that is certified organic or fair trade, you can support these efforts and contribute to the well-being of coffee-growing communities.
Economic Impact: Coffee production provides livelihoods for millions of people worldwide. By purchasing coffee from reputable sources, you help sustain the economies of coffee-growing regions and support fair wages and working conditions for farmers.In summary, coffee offers a multitude of benefits that extend beyond its delicious taste. From health advantages and enhanced cognitive function to social and cultural enrichment, coffee is a versatile beverage that can positively impact various aspects of your life. So go ahead, brew yourself a cup, and enjoy all that coffee has to offer.

My roommate '21F' and I '20F' are very close. At least I thought we was. I had a crush on this guy, our housemate, I liked him so much that I confessed but it turned out that he liked my roommate instead. I was cool with it and I really didn't want to be the reason he can't ask my roommate out. My roommate on the other hand had a boyfriend at time and they were in a long distance relationship. She didn't exactly like this guy because of something stupid (she gets mad at small things). So I told her that my crush likes you. She promised she wouldn't dare date him because she doesn't like him. But as time goes on and guy is doing everything in his power to make this girl his, my roommate ended up falling for him. My roommate tells me everything about him just like I used to tell her everything about him too. My roommate and I are so close that people assume we are best friends. I was the fool for getting it into my head when we are not. I had no problem whatsoever with them dating. The guy instantly became a red flag for not liking me (because what do you mean you do not like me, you don't have taste). Until she had sex with him when I was there. They thought I was sleeping. I happened to hear their pillow talk, they were talking about me. They were actually talking about who liked who first and my name came out of it. It has been months since they were dating and me, my roommate and this guy are close. They said a lot of hurtful things that I can't say here. Ever since then things have never been the same (on my side though) because I was just pretending that everything is normal. I also once borrowed my roommate's phone and she told me her pin. I needed her to send me something on WhatsApp so when I searched my name on the search icon, interesting conversations about me appeared. One thing about me is, I payback everything (money, kindness, mistreatment, etc) I don't like debts. Another thing about me is, I have never dated before. I have kissed before, but it was my friend '20F' and she was teaching me how to. I'm still not experienced in kissing though. I'm a clean virgin (except for my mind) and only ever had so little interaction with men (my family is dominated by women and I went to girl schools and it is my first time exposed in an environment where there are lots of males so I find it hard to interact with them). But I'm so determined to seduce him, I don't to sleep with him but I want to give him a BJ and him to go down on me, no penetration. He should not know that I'm inexperienced at all! So far I have only managed to keep longer eye contact with him (as per my friend's advice) and I wasn't sure I was doing it right until he did something that gave me a hint and I knew I was in. Whenever my roommate is not home he comes to my room and plays silly little games with me like we used to do but this time he makes them so intimate. He thinks I'm a freak because of the things I normally say whenever we have those conversations (the three of us). But now that he is being intimate with me, and I obviously give a reaction, I think he's starting to think I'm not as freaky as he thought I would be. I can't let that thought manifest, I NEED HELP!

Salam everyone, using my throwaway acc for this. So, I've started searching for my potential spouse. Growing up, I was always on the chubby side. Unfortunately, I've noticed that people treated me differently depending on my physical appearance. When I started eating healthier and working on my body, the amount of people interested in befriending me or making plans increased. Even the men would go out of their way to help me, and it made me question why they were treating me better all of a sudden.
I'm proud to say that I've learned from that experience and I now know how important it is to surround myself with people who appreciate me for my personality. I'm a hijabi woman, and I thought that people would be interested in getting to know me for my mind and values, but I've learned that physical attraction is important as well to most people.
So, after all that experience, I'm considering using a more "chubby" picture on Muzzmatch or when exchanging pics with potential spouses. I'm afraid that using my current "great shape" picture will attract people who only care about my physical appearance which will fade soon.
I once worked with a guy who was very popular and attractive, he confess that he like me but I knew from working with him that our personalities wouldn't match. Even though he was tall and attractive, the fact that he vapes was a deal breaker for me. I think it's important to be true to yourself and not compromise on your values, especially when it comes to choosing a potential spouse.
Even though I might get rejected by some potential spouses because of my chubby appearance, I do think I'm dodging a bullet. I genuinely want to find someone who loves me for my personality, and using my chubby picture might be the best way to attract the right type of person. So, what do you think? Will you get angry or mad if we meet and turned out I'm not chubby and I kinda lie to u by using my chubby picture? Am I wrong to do this? Please share your thoughts! JIA

I believe my family and I were victims of an anti-Asian hate crime that occurred Thursday evening (6/6/24) at approximately 8:25 pm in Arcadia, CA.
My family and I were driving on Huntington Drive, heading home from a relaxing dinner. As we were slowing down for the red traffic light at the intersection of Huntington Drive and Santa Clara Street, we noticed that the occupants in the car in the next lane kept staring at us. There were two female occupants in the car. Both the driver and the passenger were butch-looking women with the same dark-haired curly mullet hairstyles. The driver wore glasses. Both women appeared to be either white or light-skinned Hispanic. We stopped for the red light. All of a sudden, I heard a “splat” sound and immediately noticed that something orange-colored landed in the center my windshield. I became distraught.
At the same moment, the red light turned green and both I and the woman in that other car started driving. The two women still kept looking at us in the midst of driving. I honked my horn and the driver quickly accelerated her car and turned right towards Colorado Place while I continued heading on Huntington Drive. I caught a quick glimpse of their car and it was a light blue SUV. I believe their license plate starts with the number 4. Everything happened so quickly. I was in shock. My hands were shaking as I was driving and I was so distraught that I almost rear-ended the car in front of me. Thankfully, my family and I safely returned home. I used a hose to wash off whatever it was that those women threw at my windshield. It appeared to be some kind of fruit that left a slimy trail.
I don’t know what I’m hoping to accomplish by writing this post and sharing what happened to my family and me that night. Perhaps it’s just to remind everyone that racist assholes unfortunately still exist in this day and age, even in somewhere as diverse as the San Gabriel Valley. The worst part was that my mother had a doctor’s appointment earlier during the day, where she was told that she had extremely high blood pressure due to tons of stress from work. This idiotic and dangerous act that the two women pulled added even more unnecessary stress for my mom, who was also in the car with me and witnessed the incident.
We had gone out for a nice dinner to help my mom relax a little bit after her doctor’s appointment. It really sucks that our otherwise perfect evening was ruined by these two racist losers.

The Sword of Chronos

Prologue
In the timeless expanse of the cosmos, where universes drift like countless specks of dust in a sunbeam, a god named Chronos reigned supreme. Unlike other deities, Chronos possessed a unique weapon—a sword forged from the essence of time itself. This blade, known as the Temporal Blade, could slice through the fabric of reality, enabling its wielder to traverse dimensions and alternate universes.
Chronos, weary of his eternal life and the immense responsibilities it carried, conceived a plan to relinquish his power. He decided to pass on the Temporal Blade and his godly abilities to a mortal worthy of such a mantle. To this end, he devised a competition, comprising seven challenges, each more daunting than the last. The winner would inherit the sword and the god's extraordinary abilities.

Chapter 1: The Call

In a humble village on Earth, lived a young man named Elian. Known for his courage and kind heart, Elian was a blacksmith's apprentice. Despite his modest upbringing, he harbored dreams of adventures beyond the mundane reality of his life.
One fateful night, as Elian worked late at the forge, a blinding light enveloped him. When he opened his eyes, he found himself in a vast, celestial hall. At the center stood a majestic figure with a luminous presence.
"Welcome, Elian," the figure intoned, his voice echoing through the hall. "I am Chronos, the god of time. I have chosen you, among others, to compete for my powers and the Temporal Blade."
Elian, though stunned, managed to ask, "Why me?"
Chronos smiled. "Because your heart is pure, and your courage is unmatched. The challenges ahead will test you beyond your limits. Should you succeed, you will wield powers beyond your imagination."

Chapter 2: The Competitors

Elian wasn't alone in this grand hall. Six other individuals from various realms stood around him. Each had been chosen for their unique qualities and strengths:

1. Liora: A fierce warrior princess from the desert realm of Aridia, known for her unmatched combat skills.
2. Finn: A clever thief from the shadowy streets of Nocturna, whose agility and cunning were legendary.
3. Arin: A gentle healer from the lush forests of Eldoria, with a deep connection to nature.
4. Kara: A sorceress from the mystical land of Zephyria, with command over elemental magic.
5. Ragnar: A formidable Viking chieftain from the icy fjords of Norrland, known for his brute strength.
6. Nyx: A mysterious assassin from the twilight world of Umbra, shrouded in secrecy and silence.

Chapter 3: The First Challenge - The Labyrinth of Echoes

Chronos led the competitors to the first challenge, a sprawling labyrinth that seemed to twist and turn in impossible ways. "This is the Labyrinth of Echoes," Chronos explained. "Within its walls, you will face your deepest fears and confront reflections of your past. Only by overcoming these trials will you find the exit."
Elian entered the labyrinth, his heart pounding. The walls seemed alive, whispering his darkest secrets and fears. He saw visions of his past—his parents' death, his struggles, and his failures. Yet, as he faced these specters, he remembered Chronos's words about courage.
Drawing strength from within, Elian confronted each fear head-on. His resolve grew with every step, and eventually, he found the exit. To his relief, he wasn't the first to emerge; Liora, Finn, and Arin were already there. Moments later, the others joined them, each bearing marks of their internal battles.

Chapter 4: The Second Challenge - The Bridge of Despair

The second challenge took place on a narrow bridge suspended over an abyss. Chronos appeared before them, his expression grave. "This is the Bridge of Despair. To cross it, you must confront a vision of your future—a future in which you fail. Only by accepting this potential outcome can you proceed."
As Elian stepped onto the bridge, a harrowing vision engulfed him. He saw himself standing before his village, defeated and broken, his dreams shattered. Despair threatened to consume him, but he remembered the courage that had carried him through the labyrinth.
With great effort, Elian accepted the vision. He understood that failure was a possibility, but it didn't define him. As he reached the other side, he saw that the others were already there, each having faced their own visions.

Chapter 5: The Third Challenge - The Mirror of Truth

The third challenge brought the competitors to a vast chamber filled with mirrors. "This is the Mirror of Truth," Chronos said. "It shows your true self, stripped of all illusions. To move forward, you must accept what you see."
Elian gazed into the mirror, his reflection gradually changing to reveal his deepest flaws and insecurities. He saw his fears of inadequacy and his struggles with self-doubt. Tears filled his eyes, but he didn't look away. Accepting his flaws, he embraced the image before him.
As Elian stepped away from the mirror, he saw the others emerging from their reflections, each looking more resolved. They were growing stronger with every challenge.

Chapter 6: The Fourth Challenge - The River of Memories

The next challenge led them to a tranquil river flowing through a serene valley. "This is the River of Memories," Chronos explained. "You must cross it, but as you do, you will relive your most painful memories. Only by accepting these memories can you reach the other side."
Elian stepped into the river, and instantly, memories flooded his mind—his parents' deaths, his struggles as an orphan, and the moments of despair that had shaped his life. Pain washed over him, but he understood that these memories were part of who he was.
With each step, the burden lightened, and by the time he reached the other side, he felt a profound sense of peace. The others crossed the river as well, their expressions a mixture of pain and acceptance.

Chapter 7: The Fifth Challenge - The Mountain of Resolve

The fifth challenge took the competitors to the base of a towering mountain. "This is the Mountain of Resolve," Chronos said. "To reach the summit, you must push beyond your physical and mental limits. Only those with unyielding determination will succeed."
Elian began the ascent, the path steep and treacherous. Every muscle in his body screamed in protest, and his mind wavered under the strain. Yet, he remembered his dreams of adventure and the hope that had brought him this far.
Drawing strength from within, Elian pushed forward, one step at a time. Hours passed, and just as he thought he could go no further, he reached the summit. The others arrived shortly after, their faces etched with exhaustion but also a fierce determination.

Chapter 8: The Sixth Challenge - The Field of Unity

The sixth challenge unfolded in a vast field, where Chronos awaited them. "This is the Field of Unity," he said. "To succeed, you must work together. This challenge will test your ability to cooperate and trust each other."
The competitors faced a series of obstacles that required their combined efforts. Elian, with his blacksmith skills, crafted tools to help them navigate the challenges. Liora and Ragnar used their strength to move boulders, while Finn and Nyx utilized their agility to scout ahead. Kara and Arin provided support with their magic and healing abilities.
Through their combined efforts, they overcame each obstacle, forging bonds of trust and camaraderie. By the time they completed the challenge, they had become a cohesive team.

Chapter 9: The Seventh Challenge - The Final Confrontation

The final challenge took place in a grand arena, where Chronos stood at the center, holding the Temporal Blade. "This is the ultimate test," he declared. "To prove yourself worthy of my powers, you must face me in combat. Only one of you can emerge victorious."
The competitors knew this would be their greatest trial. Elian, despite the friendships he had forged, steeled himself for the battle ahead. One by one, they faced Chronos, each showcasing their unique skills and abilities.
When it was Elian's turn, he felt a surge of determination. He fought with all his might, drawing on everything he had learned from the previous challenges. His strikes were precise, his movements fluid. Chronos, impressed by Elian's growth and spirit, pushed him to his limits.
As the battle reached its climax, Elian managed to disarm Chronos, the Temporal Blade falling at his feet. He stood before the god, breathless but victorious.

Epilogue

Chronos smiled, a look of pride in his eyes. "You have proven yourself worthy, Elian. The Temporal Blade and my powers are yours."
As Elian took the sword, a surge of energy coursed through him. He felt his perception of time expand, his senses heightened. He knew he was now capable of traversing dimensions and altering reality itself.
The other competitors, though disappointed, congratulated Elian. They had come to respect and admire him through their shared trials.
Chronos, now free from his burdens, looked at Elian with a sense of fulfillment. "Use these powers wisely, Elian. Remember the lessons you have learned and the friends you have made."
Elian nodded, the weight of his new responsibilities sinking in. As he prepared to step into his new role, he knew that his adventures were just beginning. With the Temporal Blade in hand, he was ready to explore the infinite possibilities of the multiverse, bringing hope and justice wherever he went.
And so, Elian, the blacksmith's apprentice turned god, embarked on a journey across time and space, his heart filled with courage and determination, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
4oThe Sword of Chronos

Prologue

In the timeless expanse of the cosmos, where universes drift like countless specks of dust in a sunbeam, a god named Chronos reigned supreme. Unlike other deities, Chronos possessed a unique weapon—a sword forged from the essence of time itself. This blade, known as the Temporal Blade, could slice through the fabric of reality, enabling its wielder to traverse dimensions and alternate universes.
Chronos, weary of his eternal life and the immense responsibilities it carried, conceived a plan to relinquish his power. He decided to pass on the Temporal Blade and his godly abilities to a mortal worthy of such a mantle. To this end, he devised a competition, comprising seven challenges, each more daunting than the last. The winner would inherit the sword and the god's extraordinary abilities.

Chapter 1: The Call

In a humble village on Earth, lived a young man named Elian. Known for his courage and kind heart, Elian was a blacksmith's apprentice. Despite his modest upbringing, he harbored dreams of adventures beyond the mundane reality of his life.
One fateful night, as Elian worked late at the forge, a blinding light enveloped him. When he opened his eyes, he found himself in a vast, celestial hall. At the center stood a majestic figure with a luminous presence.
"Welcome, Elian," the figure intoned, his voice echoing through the hall. "I am Chronos, the god of time. I have chosen you, among others, to compete for my powers and the Temporal Blade."
Elian, though stunned, managed to ask, "Why me?"
Chronos smiled. "Because your heart is pure, and your courage is unmatched. The challenges ahead will test you beyond your limits. Should you succeed, you will wield powers beyond your imagination."

Chapter 2: The Competitors

Elian wasn't alone in this grand hall. Six other individuals from various realms stood around him. Each had been chosen for their unique qualities and strengths:

1. Liora: A fierce warrior princess from the desert realm of Aridia, known for her unmatched combat skills.
2. Finn: A clever thief from the shadowy streets of Nocturna, whose agility and cunning were legendary.
3. Arin: A gentle healer from the lush forests of Eldoria, with a deep connection to nature.
4. Kara: A sorceress from the mystical land of Zephyria, with command over elemental magic.
5. Ragnar: A formidable Viking chieftain from the icy fjords of Norrland, known for his brute strength.
6. Nyx: A mysterious assassin from the twilight world of Umbra, shrouded in secrecy and silence.

Chapter 3: The First Challenge - The Labyrinth of Echoes

Chronos led the competitors to the first challenge, a sprawling labyrinth that seemed to twist and turn in impossible ways. "This is the Labyrinth of Echoes," Chronos explained. "Within its walls, you will face your deepest fears and confront reflections of your past. Only by overcoming these trials will you find the exit."
Elian entered the labyrinth, his heart pounding. The walls seemed alive, whispering his darkest secrets and fears. He saw visions of his past—his parents' death, his struggles, and his failures. Yet, as he faced these specters, he remembered Chronos's words about courage.
Drawing strength from within, Elian confronted each fear head-on. His resolve grew with every step, and eventually, he found the exit. To his relief, he wasn't the first to emerge; Liora, Finn, and Arin were already there. Moments later, the others joined them, each bearing marks of their internal battles.

Chapter 4: The Second Challenge - The Bridge of Despair

The second challenge took place on a narrow bridge suspended over an abyss. Chronos appeared before them, his expression grave. "This is the Bridge of Despair. To cross it, you must confront a vision of your future—a future in which you fail. Only by accepting this potential outcome can you proceed."
As Elian stepped onto the bridge, a harrowing vision engulfed him. He saw himself standing before his village, defeated and broken, his dreams shattered. Despair threatened to consume him, but he remembered the courage that had carried him through the labyrinth.
With great effort, Elian accepted the vision. He understood that failure was a possibility, but it didn't define him. As he reached the other side, he saw that the others were already there, each having faced their own visions.

Chapter 5: The Third Challenge - The Mirror of Truth

The third challenge brought the competitors to a vast chamber filled with mirrors. "This is the Mirror of Truth," Chronos said. "It shows your true self, stripped of all illusions. To move forward, you must accept what you see."
Elian gazed into the mirror, his reflection gradually changing to reveal his deepest flaws and insecurities. He saw his fears of inadequacy and his struggles with self-doubt. Tears filled his eyes, but he didn't look away. Accepting his flaws, he embraced the image before him.
As Elian stepped away from the mirror, he saw the others emerging from their reflections, each looking more resolved. They were growing stronger with every challenge.

Chapter 6: The Fourth Challenge - The River of Memories

The next challenge led them to a tranquil river flowing through a serene valley. "This is the River of Memories," Chronos explained. "You must cross it, but as you do, you will relive your most painful memories. Only by accepting these memories can you reach the other side."
Elian stepped into the river, and instantly, memories flooded his mind—his parents' deaths, his struggles as an orphan, and the moments of despair that had shaped his life. Pain washed over him, but he understood that these memories were part of who he was.
With each step, the burden lightened, and by the time he reached the other side, he felt a profound sense of peace. The others crossed the river as well, their expressions a mixture of pain and acceptance.

Chapter 7: The Fifth Challenge - The Mountain of Resolve

The fifth challenge took the competitors to the base of a towering mountain. "This is the Mountain of Resolve," Chronos said. "To reach the summit, you must push beyond your physical and mental limits. Only those with unyielding determination will succeed."
Elian began the ascent, the path steep and treacherous. Every muscle in his body screamed in protest, and his mind wavered under the strain. Yet, he remembered his dreams of adventure and the hope that had brought him this far.
Drawing strength from within, Elian pushed forward, one step at a time. Hours passed, and just as he thought he could go no further, he reached the summit. The others arrived shortly after, their faces etched with exhaustion but also a fierce determination.

Chapter 8: The Sixth Challenge - The Field of Unity

The sixth challenge unfolded in a vast field, where Chronos awaited them. "This is the Field of Unity," he said. "To succeed, you must work together. This challenge will test your ability to cooperate and trust each other."
The competitors faced a series of obstacles that required their combined efforts. Elian, with his blacksmith skills, crafted tools to help them navigate the challenges. Liora and Ragnar used their strength to move boulders, while Finn and Nyx utilized their agility to scout ahead. Kara and Arin provided support with their magic and healing abilities.
Through their combined efforts, they overcame each obstacle, forging bonds of trust and camaraderie. By the time they completed the challenge, they had become a cohesive team.

Chapter 9: The Seventh Challenge - The Final Confrontation

The final challenge took place in a grand arena, where Chronos stood at the center, holding the Temporal Blade. "This is the ultimate test," he declared. "To prove yourself worthy of my powers, you must face me in combat. Only one of you can emerge victorious."
The competitors knew this would be their greatest trial. Elian, despite the friendships he had forged, steeled himself for the battle ahead. One by one, they faced Chronos, each showcasing their unique skills and abilities.
When it was Elian's turn, he felt a surge of determination. He fought with all his might, drawing on everything he had learned from the previous challenges. His strikes were precise, his movements fluid. Chronos, impressed by Elian's growth and spirit, pushed him to his limits.
As the battle reached its climax, Elian managed to disarm Chronos, the Temporal Blade falling at his feet. He stood before the god, breathless but victorious.

Epilogue

Chronos smiled, a look of pride in his eyes. "You have proven yourself worthy, Elian. The Temporal Blade and my powers are yours."
As Elian took the sword, a surge of energy coursed through him. He felt his perception of time expand, his senses heightened. He knew he was now capable of traversing dimensions and altering reality itself.
The other competitors, though disappointed, congratulated Elian. They had come to respect and admire him through their shared trials.
Chronos, now free from his burdens, looked at Elian with a sense of fulfillment. "Use these powers wisely, Elian. Remember the lessons you have learned and the friends you have made."
Elian nodded, the weight of his new responsibilities sinking in. As he prepared to step into his new role, he knew that his adventures were just beginning. With the Temporal Blade in hand, he was ready to explore the infinite possibilities of the multiverse, bringing hope and justice wherever he went.
And so, Elian, the blacksmith's apprentice turned god, embarked on a journey across time and space, his heart filled with courage and determination, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
PART 2

My father didn't care about our family when he was in 30s..
Got cancer and never followed proper medication. All the ancestral land is selled by his greedy brothers. He died and I was just a kid back then. My mother is not able to see from her one eye. She was way traumatized all these years.
Being an elder son , I had to deal with my mother's narcissistic and highly traumatised personality which I myself justify because of the reasons.
My maternal and paternal relatives treated us like a shit. When my father was on deathbed , they made us untouchable because of the fear of infection. My mother raised me. But I grew up like a lifeless kid. I never played games , i studied hard because that was the only thing I could do that time.
By focusing on partime jobs and studies, i couldn't make friends ( believe me keeping friends was expensive for me!) Because you need daily at least 50 rupees if you have to sit with them for tea.
I had girlfriend when I was 18-19. She was 4 years older than me. She cheated me brutally with her old friend. I took a year to get back in my senses. I blame her for spoiling my college years.
Somehow , i became engineering graduate two years ago. Now I'm working, I have real life ahead to face. I earn very less. My mother is almost got old. My younger brother lives like he's Nawab by my money. If I refuse , my mother Gaslights me unconsciously. I understand her , I have to understand her why she is like this.
My only uncle (34) died before 3 years. His wife got married someone else. His daughter is 5 y/o and unfortunately she is mentally disabled. My grandmother lives with her separately because she has issues with my mother. She never miss a chance to increase my tension. I feel so bad , my own blood relatives can't see me like their child. My father had two sisters. They don't speak with me because they wants our ancestral house in village.
I failed at romantic relationships which gave me unbearable trauma. Society looks at my mother as a great woman but no one looks at me like a human. My insecurities are so hyper. I can't smile , i desparately find someone just to talk.
I have read too much philosophy when I was in isolation. That's why I'm facing an existential crisis. I don't remember when I smiled last time. My maternal relatives also treats me as the competitor of their children ( they are crorepatis) not as a son of their poor sister. My great grandfather was very close to the King of our province before independence. I have read too many books just to cure my loneliness. But nothing works anymore. After years of studying hard , i became a mediocre.
Today morning I got a call from my sister in law. She expressed her concerns that my cousin is not close to her and life seems boring. She said that if this is being normal life then I probably do something. And then she justified a woman who recently caught cheating her husband. I know my cousin is in too much loss in his business. That's why he's not able to give her attention. But this woman triggered my all insecurities again. I'm still living cause I have a hope for being loved someday, and the chaste lady like her feels cheating on her husband then it can happen with me too. I see no purpose in life is I don't get loved.
I look very playful and handsome according to some women. But trust me I don't believe in anything anymore.I want someone to motivate me for killing myself. Because I'm a coward. I can't see blood. If one really cares about me then they should really help me to end this miserable life. Please don't give me sympathy if anyone is reading this. Because I don't deserve it. I wish I die as soon as possible. I have no one in this world. I see nothing getting better.

Due to the excessive occurence of hook up culture in our society and cheating issues, we might to foresee increasing rates of HIV, other STDs and cervical cancer among women in the next few years.

hi girls! i recently got very into sororities (in general), i was originally just learning about the history and how it works (i’m from europe so this was just me learning about something completely new didn’t think i would go this deep lol) and then i discovered bama rush tok (totally missed my fyp when it got big btw) and i’ve been watching yt videos and tiktoks and learning all about this side of college life.
the reason i am making this post is that i am looking for some girls i can follow/subcribe to who post content like this. (instagram, tiktok, youtube) i don’t care how big or small their following is as long as they are very active on social media. perfect time to even plug your own social media if you want. you can reply here or in my dms :) - if you share your own IG let me know it’s yours, i am very active on there - if we are mutuals i engage with stories & posts, if i just follow you and you don’t i most of the time engage with posts! i love supporting other women more than anything
(i always get into different topics and i like to study, watch & read about it, it’s like instead of physically trying new hobbies sometimes i get into new topics and this is the first time i can enjoy it in real time like this)

Here's some context before this story: My vent : selfharmteens (reddit.com)
Hey! so I've been just sad recently and finding "solace" or whatever you call it in the darkness, alone. I just feel calmer, I guess I just like being my myself. I don't know whether its because I'm depressed or not.. I just haven't realized how peaceful it feels.
Anyway so my parents brought me to their friend's house / my former friends house (They are like neighbor-grandparents) and I brought my kindle with me and just read, kind of avoiding conversation
(They used to be my friends but one time during dinner my brother was saying mean comments about me, and I responded jokingly, trying to avoid it. i was just talking a lot. anyway we were playing uno and the husband of the neighbor-grandma just started yelling in my face about how we needed to be quiet and stop arguing and that he couldn't hear anything because of us. I wasn't even arguing! I was trying to do the opposite! and then i started crying and he just said angrily "stop crying" and nobody, even the daughter of the neighbor-grandma) did anything. I was crying and they didn't care. And then the neighbor-grandma e-mailed my mom saying:
"Wanted to share an incident that occurred here Friday pm. Sanara was unusually actually picking on Samar more than he to her. We were playing a game after dinner and the kids were quarreling so much/loudly that Kevin physically moved himself between them (they'd been sitting together) and raised his voice and gave them both a little reprimand. Samar appeared to be ok with it but Sanara was visibly NOT! She attempted to dispute with Kevin and he told us all to just move forward and continue to play. She cheered up quickly but it was a bit uncomfortable for all for a bit."
(I only know this bc i saw the email on my mom's apple watch)
-I actually didn't cheer up, I just pretended to, because i wanted it all to be over and you fake it till you make it, right?
-Also, I just started saying a quarter of a sentence to plead my case, when he yelled at me and I started to cry.
-Also, I thought these people were my friends, and they betray me. always.)
Anyway, so I continued to read by myself, moved to a different spot away from people, and then we left. My parents brought me on a boat. I read. We got back. I read. I read for many hours straight until i physically couldn't distinguish what facts were from my book and which ones were real. (Does this happen to anyone?)
Anyway they got upset that i wasn't talking to them, but they really didn't put in much effort to make conversation. On the car ride home they started saying how rude I was and embarrassing for reading, which I said sorry, sorry. I said it honestly, i realize it was a bad decision. And then I corrected her grammar when she was ranting on to me (english is not her 1st language) and she started to cry. I felt horrible.
My mom said that the way i act (by myself, in a different room, not really talking, and I don't mean to be rude, i really regret it afterwards) makes her cry 4 times a week and she needs a break from me. She says that she thinks im depressed because everyone in our family is. (She and my dad are depressed bc of me, my brother hates me) So now im staying at my grandparents house for 4 more days, while the rest of my family (my parents and brother) are going to live their more happy lives without me for the next 4 days in the city.
My grandparents house doesn't seem so bad, except there have been many incidents.
Once was when my grandma yelled at me until the point I had a panic attack/was hyperventilating while crying.
Another was when I couldn't focus on my homework and was singing while doing work (I may have Adhd, I haven't gotten tested but i want to) and my mom got so upset and cried and said how immature i was, and how that's why i don't have friends, and how all the ones i have will leave me, and all these mean, mean things, like how i am such a bitch, i never listen. And i just smiled because i smile to hide the pain. And they thought i was mental because they thought i was laughing at them crying. And they were asking about if there was something wrong with me, if i needed help, etc. (they didn't say it in a nice way) and my grandma was next to my mom hearing this and didn't say anything, just agreed with my mom. and then my brother just started punching and throwing me around and then I just hit the dresser and fell. and laughed. Because im insane.
Another time was when i was taking too long in the shower and my dad kept on banging at the door. I yelled, "Later!" but he got angry that i wasn't coming out. He unlocked the bathroom door with a knife from the outside WHILE i was showering but i was wearing a towel luckily by the time i realized what was happening. My grandma barged in with like pure rage, and i was terrified, just there cowering with my towel. She said, "You may think im nice and that I love you, but..." She didn't say anything else, but i wonder if she meant that those things weren't true. Anyway that experience combined with other experiences was the reason I first started to cut myself.
Sooooooo anyway i feel like i shouldn't be acting rude because my parents are trying, but I just cant look at them the same way after all that they have said, (My mom has called me a dumbshit, ugly, stupid, a bitch, she said she wanted to disown me once, etc.) and my dad never did anything when this happened. He agreed with her. he also said "fuck you" to me. I don't really know how i am supposed to act. I just cant be the perfect happy innocent child anymore. Im sorry im not how i used to be. Im sorry im breaking your heart. But you broke mine a while ago.
YOU DESERVE AN AWARD FOR STAYING HERE THIS LONG AND READING MY EXTREMELY LONG ESSAY. (I didn't mean for it to be the length of an essay, the more i wrote the more stuff i wanted to say)

hi girls! i recently got very into sororities (in general), i was originally just learning about the history and how it works (i’m from europe so this was just me learning about something completely new didn’t think i would go this deep lol) and then i discovered bama rush tok (totally missed my fyp when it got big btw) and i’ve been watching yt videos and tiktoks and learning all about this side of college life.
the reason i am making this post is that i am looking for some girls i can follow/subcribe to who post content like this. (instagram, tiktok, youtube) i don’t care how big or small their following is as long as they are very active on social media. perfect time to even plug your own social media if you want. you can reply here or in my dms :) - if you share your own IG let me know it’s yours, i am very active on there - if we are mutuals i engage with stories & posts, if i just follow you and you don’t i most of the time engage with posts! i love supporting other women more than anything
(i always get into different topics and i like to study, watch & read about it, it’s like instead of physically trying new hobbies sometimes i get into new topics and this is the first time i can enjoy it in real time like this)

Izzie and Meredith’s last scene is just brutally painful to me. Meredith, with all of her attachment issues, musters up the courage to ask Izzie to stay. Her “please don’t go” was just so childlike and heartbreaking. Meredith pulling the family and Seattle is your home card was such a full circle moment after, in the beginning, she didn’t seem to want to get to close to the others.
Izzie’s choice to protect Alex and instead completely sever her friendship with Meredith was an interesting one, too. She never once in the scene mentioned that Alex asked/told her to leave and that’s why she was ultimately going. Instead, she chose to damage their bond, beyond repair, by telling Meredith that Seattle wasn’t her home and that she could work from anywhere. Despite the fact that her words obviously hurt Meredith, they looked like they hurt Izzie as well.
That scene just seemed like such a painful ending to a sweet friendship. Both women appeared completely defeated and in pain.