Dearest gentle reader,
As you may be already aware if you follow various gossip columns, our most beloved Bridgerton family is returning to London for the season. The ton has been eagerly anticipating this new season, and this autor can’t deny sharing in the excitement. However, every author, even a columnist, knows the importance of humility and when to let their readership take the lead.
It is your turn, now, gentle reader and avid gossip enthusiast, to talk about the scandalous story of a budding wallflower and her beau, beginning on May 16th 2024, on Netflix.
This author, however, understands that to enjoy this new season of gossip and scandals, we must maintain secrecy and refrain from divulging future events. Therefore, we kindly ask of you to respect the following sections :
In General (This section exists to allow everyone can comment simultaneously as they watch the show, so please refrain from sharing spoilers) :
Episode 1
Episode 2
Episode 3
Episode 4
Ratings and reviews : this section permits spoilers of all the episode out (please keep leaks out) as well as theory for future episodes.
Please reply to the relevant top-level comment to discuss anything that happens in that particular episode.
You will need to hide comment replies in order not to see the replies in the later sections you have not gotten to yet and risk spoiling anything. To do so, you should click on the vertical line below each top-level comment. This will collapse all replies. *Please be careful! We don't want your experience to be tarnished by skimming down the page without having collapsed the sections you have not read yet.
Questions ? Please reply to the “In General” top-level comment.
Technical issues ? Again, please reply to the “In General” comment and we’ll do our best to help you!
We hope you will have a fun watch party !

I've been fuk slammed by fate fortune or folly me whole life it ain't all by chance it's a fuking statistical impossibility that's a story and victim for another time so take it for what it's worth f9r argument just sub in your experience. If its anything like mine I can tell you Id thought I had already lost everything loved and cared for the limits of my heart and mind so many times over from the bottom i rebuilt in catastrophic totality I've lost count and perhaps my way. There were times I had even convinced myself there was nothing left to give and every time I got back up because at times I'm just either to stupid to know when I'm done or I had nothing left to lose. They better kn8ck me out because that shit doesn't hurt tell latter and there's just to much it's come to far for me to give a fuk about any of that and every time I just get better by now we're all bone and grizzle tough as nails the darkest holes this side of the US Corrections and rehabilitation systems has tempered me with the will to run towards the flames into the fire and to the service of me fellow men and women and especially tyr children and I have a feeling that you all hear have a not to dissimilar experience if not your own downward spiral into this madness lead, entertained, and fed upon by fools and pedofiles I don't think they ever could have guessed that that in the dark we would find ourselves each other our families our lives that together we would not only just live and survive we would thrive, they would not could not know, because of the struggle they do not. suffering is the abstract lesson that brings temperance humility fortitude and self reliance when we may be tired but we are not Alone we are Many we are strong and together we hold the key the power of the king and queen is by consent of the governed and I for one resend my consent and reserve all of my rights regardless we hold the keys take back your hearts and power cast these paper tigers to the feeding foul mouths of thier own creation let thier bodies own pay thier debts. Our son's and daughters or not for sale. Our lives not forefit we are the natural indigenous and free people of the earth. Engage with your environment and it will respond together all things are possible. Hold the line

Welcome to this non-real time meeting of Overeaters Anonymous! I’m metanoiia. I’m a compulsive eater and your leader for this meeting. Will those who wish, please join me in the Serenity Prayer: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.
Overeaters Anonymous is a Fellowship of individuals who, through shared experience, strength, and hope, are recovering from compulsive overeating. We welcome everyone who wants to stop eating compulsively. There are no dues or fees for members; we are self-supporting through our own contributions, neither soliciting nor accepting outside donations. OA is not affiliated with any public or private organization, political movement, ideology, or religious doctrine; we take no position on outside issues. Our primary purpose is to abstain from compulsive eating and compulsive food behaviors and to carry the message of recovery through the Twelve Steps of OA to those who still suffer.
Our Invitation to You
The Twelve Traditions of Overeaters Anonymous
Abstinence in Overeaters Anonymous is the action of refraining from compulsive eating and compulsive food behaviors while working towards or maintaining a healthy body weight. Spiritual, emotional, and physical recovery is the result of living the Overeaters Anonymous Twelve Step program.
The OA tools of recovery help us work the Steps and refrain from compulsive overeating. The nine tools are: a plan of eating, sponsorship, meetings, telephone, writing, literature, an action plan, anonymity, and service. For more information, read The Tools of Recovery OA page.
Sponsorship is one of our keys to success. Sponsors are OA members committed to abstinence and to living the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions to the best of their ability. Sponsors share their program up to the level of their experience and strengthen their recovery through this service to others. To find a sponsor, look for someone who has what you want and ask how he or she is achieving it. Will all abstinent sponsors please identify themselves in their post?
According to our Seventh Tradition, we are self-supporting through our own contributions. Our group number is 99038. Please use the group number when making your contribution. As our virtual group currently has no expenses please consider donating directly through this link to the OA World Service Office, who provides resources for OA groups all around the world to carry the message to other compulsive overeaters.
Suggested guidelines for sharing: As you share your experience and strength in OA, please also share your hope. Please confine your sharing to your experience with the disease of compulsive eating, the solution offered by OA, and your own recovery from the disease, rather than just the events of the day or week. When responding to other member’s posts, please focus on your personal experience rather than advice giving. If you are having difficulties, share how you use the program to deal with them. If you need to talk more about your difficulties and seek solutions, we suggest you speak to your sponsor and other members after the meeting.
*This is a literature meeting. Today we are studying the Big Book of Alcohol Anonymous page 15* Bill’s Story
“We commenced to make many fast friends and a fellowship has grown up among us of which it is a wonderful thing to feel a part. The joy of living we really have, even under pressure and difficulty. I have seen hundreds of families set their feet in the path that really goes somewhere; have seen the most impossible domestic situations righted; feuds and bitterness of all sorts wiped out. I have seen men come out of asylums and resume a vital place in the lives of their families and communities. Business and professional men have regained their standing. There is scarcely any form of trouble and misery which has not been overcome among us. In one western city and its environs there are one thousand of us and our families. We meet frequently so that newcomers may find the fellowship they seek. At these informal gatherings one may often see from 50 to 200 persons. We are growing in numbers and power.”
Closing By following the Twelve Steps, attending meetings regularly, and using the OA Tools, we are changing our lives. You will find hope and encouragement in Overeaters Anonymous. To the newcomer, we suggest attending at least six different meetings to learn the many ways OA can help you. The opinions expressed here today are those of individual OA members and do not represent OA as a whole. Let us all reach out by private message to newcomers, returning members, and each other. Together we get better.

I'm a writer and have been studying Goetia demons for a few months now while planning to start writing my novel. Even though it's a fictional story, I want it to be well-researched and as good of a representation as I can achieve of the Ars Goetia lore. I also want to make it clear that even though I do plan on writing fiction, I respect that the Ars Goetia are a fundamental part of people's spirituality and it's not my intention at all to be disrespectful. Since I plan on writing specifically about Andras, I wanted to know if any of you can share stories about summonings or bibliography beyond the Lesser Key that would be helpful. Thank you!

Melina is an intriguing character because she is connected to many of the game's fundamental themes and secondary characters.
The character most similar to Melina is Millicent: they both wear the same robe and are in search of their destinies. However, Millicent's quest is driven by her lost memory, which she slowly regains, while Melina's motives are more ambiguous. I believe Melina lies about forgetting her purpose, as there are numerous inconsistencies in her statements throughout the game. For example, she initially says that seeking the Elden Ring involves violating the Golden Order, but then she takes us to the Round Table, where the Two Fingers instruct us to restore that very order. She claims not to know her purpose but already knows we should oppose the Order, which we do by burning the Erdtree—a task she helps us accomplish by enabling us to pass the thorns after she discover the purpose. The inconsistencies don’t stop there. Consider the famous issue of “what it means to be born of a mother”... Both Melina and Millicent head towards the tree where their mother is, but upon reaching Elphael, Millicent reveals that she is actually a blood relative of Malenia, while Melina never explicitly states who her mother is, if she even has one. You might think it’s obvious, yet the game doesn’t shy away from redundancy on key topics. Returning to Millicent, both characters understand their missions once they reach the base of the tree, and their sacrifices are necessary for us to fulfill their purposes. For both characters, this purpose becomes deeply subjective, driven not from above (by Gowry and ‘Melina’s mother’) but by their own set of values, closely connected to their nature. Both must rectify a mistake made by their mother, which led them to lose something. Both of their stories have double endings, one of which requires our betrayal. It is peculiar how betrayal reveals their true nature or their 'element.' Respecting their will also preserves their humanity. Even in the endings, there is a difference: Millicent's death is much more emotionally painful than Melina’s, who remains impassive even when burned by the flames of ruin. Melina, as usual, plays a role and is not entirely honest: she pretends to be the maiden and pretends to trust us but actually tests us, whereas Torrent trusts us immediately (despite initial appearances).
The second character who shares similarities with Melina is Ranni. They both have closed eyes, though opposite ones: the right for Ranni and the left for Melina, but it's the same eye if we consider Ranni's spiritual half instead of the puppet. The parallels are more subtle here but still clear: both possess the duality, typical of the Empyreans, and bring death back to the gods, believing it necessary to free the Lands Between from stasis. This contrasts with becoming the Lord of Chaos, which implies ruling an immutable and lifeless world. There are also notable differences between the two: Melina is a spirit who can physically manifest and fight, while Ranni is a soul who needs a puppet. We could almost say Melina is of the same substance as Torrent, connecting us to the third character, Miquella. However, until the DLC is released, it would be better to avoid further speculation about him.
Melina shares the same role as the Gloam-Eyed Queen. Bringing death to the gods. In the frenzied flame ending, the left eye finally opens. It’s not just the fact that Melina has a purple eye that is relevant; it’s the entire cinematic and narrative construction of the game that compels us to give importance to that eye. The last scene in the game before the end credits is a sequence where Melina finally opens her sealed eye—a detail that has intrigued us since the first trailer; this eye happens to be a gloam-colored eye, framed in close-up within a scene practically devoid of colors except for the eye itself; a fading that darkens the entire scene until it reaches a black screen, but the eye remains brilliant; at last, she says "Destined Death" and the game ends. Blaidd and Maliketh share the same shade of purple eyes, although the texture differs. Both are shadows of an empyrean. Their purpose is to ‘stop’ (kill) a god when it acts against the Greater Will. Thus, the Gloam-Eyed Queen and the shadows of the empyrean share the same role as godslayers. Vargram, aspiring to become a shadow, wields the godslayer greatsword. Melina comes back when we become the lord of the Frenzied Flame, which means to be its vessel; similarly, Marika serves as the vessel of the Elden Ring, so we can say we share the same level of 'divinity' as Marika, who is also killed by us only thanks to Melina; so, Melina's purpose leads to death of a god anyway.
In conclusion, for me Melina is an ambiguous and 'unfinished' character because she is the result of a broken bond between Marika and the Gloam-Eyed queen. A bond that is therefore impossible to reconstruct with certainty (and consequently perfectly coherent with the characteristic narrative of From Software games, in which the player is required to become an active participant), but necessary to bring balance to the Lands Between.

I was introduced to scj in December 2022 by a friend. I liked the initial lessons on parables, especially the very first parable about the four fields, I thought their explanation was accurate. I didn't always agree on their interpretation about the other parables and I realised that everytime I expressed my disagreement, they would say there's something more coming that will provide a bigger and more complete picture. Months before they introduced the idea of the new John, I realised they would introduce someone like this. I realised this in the intermediate phase on lessons such as the different kinds of pastors and the lesson on the spring and their emphasis on the word "reality" that they would say a "promised pastor" who is a spring has appeared in "reality" in our current time. I had a feeling about it and told both my friend and my teacher at the time. They did not deny that that's where the narrative was going but did not actually admit it either. They said they were impressed by how I perceived and that such perception came from God. I felt patronized and like I was treated like a child because I was being straight and direct about what I was picking up from the lessons but they were not being direct and trusting me with whatever information was coming even though they admitted I had great perception. That's when I decided to look up SJC on the internet and nothing negative came up. The SCJ website showed LMH as a promised pastor. I googled LMH and read about him on Wikipedia. I saw a testimony of a girl who was at the cape town church. These things did not make me think SJC is bad. I wanted to hear more because I thought maybe these people had a reason to believe so strongly in what they believed in and I know my friend is a highly intelligent person, even this teacher was intelligent. I was just suprised they could believe in lmh as a promised pastor because he was so old and frail. I also didn't believe in the concept of a promised pastor at the second coming especially because the organization is too secretive with the information and after 40 years of its existence very few people know about it.
Looking at LMHs age and condition, this looked to me like the Kingdom of Heaven would come in months or less than five years from now however the rate in which scj is going at telling people about it is incredibly slow and it seemed unlikely that the whole word would know about the salvation offered at scj if they continue at this rate. I told my friend about this, (before they told us who the promised pastor was) and he didn't seem worried at all. He said it will happen because nothing is impossible with God. Looking back, maybe he told on me and that I had found out who the promised pastor was before they announced.
Anyway we started with Revelation lessons and I was so shocked at their explanations from chapter 1. They had no explanation about the meaning of the 7 churches, this didn't sit well with me when everything else represents something. They denied the plain explanation in the bible about what the lampstands stand for and introduced the Terbanancle Temple instead and they dinied that some of the churches had done well and labelled all of them as betrayers.
At this point I looked up more on the internet, found many videos of ex members on YouTube. Then I found this reddit and was blown away by the evidence presented in the first pinned post. I saw a lot of other testimonies from people who had been members for a long time.
I continued with the lessons until the end, the reason was if I stick to the lessons to the very end, my friend would also be willing to give me a chance to understand my perspective and why I don't believe in the scj doctrine and practices. He is the same person who was impressed with my perception and even saying its God who gives such understanding. I was disappointed to realize he wouldn't think maybe the same God made me realise somerhing early on about this group. So it meant that it was only God if I agreed with what they were saying.
I continued because I didn't want to judge before I heard everything. I also started looking up other high control groups like the Mormons, JWs and the mother god cult and was blown away at the similarities in the doctrines and practices. I left just before the signing of the book of life.
Anyway, I'm no longer in contact with my friend but I still love and care about him. I realise he is such a good person but he wasn't good to me and can't truly be good as long as he is stuck in that group. He will be fake, patronizing, lacking honesty and humility. He will be controlled and continue to ruin relationships with people who care for him the most. Its out of my control and I couldn't help. My only hope now is that there are so many people here who woke up after spending years in the organization so maybe it will happen for him too and if he does, I hope I will have the grace to receive him back to reality.
Your stories give hope. The years spent in the group and finally waking up, makes other people see the problems in the group and the courage to also speak up and help others to have their thoughts and feelings about the group validated. They can finally discern for themselves.

I saw a thread on a post here. The last person said about alcohol but I have a question which relates to my own personal things. Regarding cannabis.
I smoke weed. I don’t really drink that much but there are times I drink alcohol. I was born into a non Christian family and my parents split up at a young age, one of them atheist and the other spiritual. Without going to deep into my life, I found Christianity after a huge time in addiction. Heroin and cocaine was my drug of choice at the time, baring in mind I knew nothing of religion then (other then like the basic Christian story) and I started using it at 16 years old. This continued for a few years until I was 18 and very close to 19. I had a few years of literal hell, and a number of more substances I took but never used regularly also came with all I can describe it now as hell. I accepted that this is what it was and this was my life now, I will have withdrawals and stuff and my frame of mind was terrible. I was an absolute mess. Not long after I turned 18 I got put on medication for opiate withdrawal and I haven’t “used” since then. When I was 19 I started tempting with religion and at first I was reading the Quran, Non Muslim, but every night I was reading the book. It wasn’t long untill I realised I was Christian, and I converted. I am now nearly 21.
Now the problem lies with The fact I am still on the medication, and I don’t think I will be coming off it anytime in the next year, but my aim is for 2025.
Cannabis has been extremely helpful if not life saving with the epidemic that’s currently going on. I haven’t even thought about going back to the old life, but I am quite dependent on cannabis, only for now. Hopefully, I also have quite severe ADHD and cannabis dampens it down to the point I can actually watch a movie without becoming irritated, compulsive , and, INTERESTED.
I don’t feel like I am doing anything sinful, but I don’t want to “mess it up”. And this is where I can go into was it all created for control? Etc etc. If I had a needle out my arm I would understand but I don’t even smoke cigarettes, or joints. Just straight bowls. Why would this be sinful in some peoples eyes? And is there any advice I can get.

The history of the Panjabi folk song "Jugni" is a captivating blend of storytelling, spiritual yearning, and a touch of mystery. Unlike a single song, "Jugni" represents a narrative style deeply embedded in Panjabi folk music for centuries. The word itself translates to "firefly" and is also used to describe a free-spirited woman. This symbolism reflects the multifaceted nature of Jugni performances.
The most widely accepted view suggests Jugni wasn't a specific song but a storytelling method used by Panjabi folk singers. It's likely that the themes explored in Jugni narratives ranged from everyday life experiences to spiritual reflections.
There's a theory suggesting a specific origin point around 1908, with folk singers Bishna and Manda credited for its creation. Both men hailed from the Majha region. According to a local lore, Manda (real name Mohammad) was a Muslim Mirasi from Hasanpur, Amritsar, while Bishna belonged to a Jatt family from the Kasur-Patti region. Their repertoire consisted mainly of traditional folk songs like Mirza and Tappe.
This theory behind Jugni's birth is interesting. It is said that around 1908, to celebrate the 50th year (golden jubilee) of Queen Victoria on the throne, a ceremonial flame traveled across British-ruled India, reaching every major city and district headquarters. Bishna and Manda, known for their stage performances, followed the flame wherever it went.
There's a discrepancy in how the word "Jugni" came about, but generally it's claimed that illiterate Bishna and Manda mispronounced "Jubilee" as "Jugni." Capitalizing on the festivities, Bishna and Manda incorporated the "Jugni" (or Jubilee) flame into their performances. They sang self-composed verses about the flame, accompanying themselves on traditional instruments like the Dhad and King. These catchy verses, referencing specific cities and villages, quickly gained popularity, inspiring others to create their own Jugni verses.
Their original 'Jugni-verse' was presumably: "Jugni jaa varhi Majithe, koi rann na chakki peethe, Putt gabhru mulak vich maare, rovan akhiyan par bulh si seete, Piir mereya oye Jugni ayi aa, ehnan kehrhi jot jagaee aa"
This 'Jugni's poetic style and versification later became a traditional method and started taking much more in it's clasp but the beginning of 'Jugni' always remained in some city or place:
"Jugni jaa varhi Ludhiane, Uhnun pai ge anne kaane, Maarn mukkian mangan daane, Piir mereya oye! Jugni kehndi aa, Jehrhi naam Ali da laindi aa"
As the "Jugni" flame traveled, Bishna and Manda's fame grew. However, the era was marked by public discontent towards British rule, including famines and oppression. This social unrest found its way into their Jugni verses, which often criticized the British Raj.
The popularity of these anti-colonial verses did not go unnoticed by the authorities. Bishna and Manda's performances were banned, forcing them to move their shows away from official festivities. Despite police intervention and crowd dispersal tactics, their revolutionary Jugni performances continued to inspire anti-British sentiment.
Tragically, their defiance ended with their arrest and torture by police in Gujranwala. They were reportedly buried in an unmarked grave, their voices silenced but their Jugni legacy living on in the hearts of the people. Both Bishna and Manda are said to have been around their 50s and unmarried, so it is said they died without heirs.
However, there are inconsistencies about this theory. Firstly, Queen Victoria's golden jubilee, which would be the most relevant jubilee for a celebration in 1908, actually occurred in 1887. Additionally, there's no historical record of a nationwide jubilee with a "Jugni" or "Jubilee" flame traveling across India for her coronation as Queen or Queen-Empress of the British Raj.
This discrepancy casts doubt on the accuracy of the story. It's possible that the details about the jubilee and the creation of Jugni are misremembered or embellished over time. Alternatively, there might have been a localized event around 1908 that involved some form of light or celebration, but it wouldn't have been the grand jubilee described in the story. It is possible that there was local events celebrating an end to the 1857 mutiny against British rule.
An alternative perspective comes from the acclaimed Panjabi folk singer Alam Lohar. He claimed to have coined the term "Jugni" inspired by Sufi poetry, and is credited with popularizing a specific style of Jugni singing. In his renditions, Jugni became a vehicle for expressing spiritual themes, often referencing God with terms like "saeen".
Lohar's own journey with Jugni began during his early performances in the 1930s, pre-dating the partition of Panjab. As a child prodigy, he sang Jugni extensively during this time. Unfortunately, limited recording facilities in British India prevented many of these early performances from being captured.
However, later in his career, Lohar released an LP record titled "Jugni" which became a huge success, achieving gold disc status in 1965. He recorded numerous variations of Jugni throughout his career, and some of these recordings are still available on LP records, black and white TV footage, and even YouTube.
Lohar's influence extends well beyond himself. Singers worldwide, including his son Arif Lohar, have been deeply inspired by his renditions of Jugni.
The passage also offers some interesting background on the word "Jugni" itself. It mentions a theory that Lohar might have been influenced by encountering the term in Sufi writings. Additionally, "Jugni" is noted to be a traditional Muslim prayer tool (Tasbih) and an ornament worn by Panjabi women. However, the connection between these uses of "Jugni" and the musical genre wasn't explicitly explained by Lohar.
Lohar's claim is contested by other Panjabi artists. They argue that Jugni existed well before him. This viewpoint strengthens the idea of Jugni being a long-standing narrative tradition.
Despite the debate on its exact origin, some aspects of Jugni's history are clear. It's an established Panjabi folk narrative style, likely referring to fireflies or a free spirit. Alam Lohar undeniably popularized a particular style of Jugni focused on spiritual themes. Renditions of Jugni have been made by many artists including Arif Lohar, Saleem Javed, Asa Singh Mastana, Surinder Kaur, Gurmeet Bawa, Kuldip Manak, Gurdas Mann, Harbhajan Mann, Rabbi Shergill, Malkit Singh, Babbu Mann, Diljit Dosanjh, Bilal Saeed, etc.
In conclusion, Jugni's history is a testament to the enduring power of Panjabi folk traditions. While its exact beginnings might be debated, Jugni's ability to capture the essence of a free spirit and the yearning for the divine continues to resonate with audiences.

A classic of fantasy (4 stars)
First published in the 1980s, the The Belgariad series of five books by David Eddings is rightly regarded as a fantasy classic, and still holds up well today. The five titles it includes are Pawn of Prophecy, Queen of Sorcery, Magician's Gambit, Castle of Wizardry, and Enchanters' End Game.
The basic storyline of the series sees the young boy Garion finds himself going on a quest with an old but wise and good sorcerer (Belgarath), and his elderly daughter (Polgara). Their mission is to recover the magic Orb which ensures peace and security for the West, but has been stolen. Behind this is the evil god Torak, who must be defeated. But along the way, Garion not only joins forces with many fine companions, but also discovers that his own identity is much more than he ever could have expected.
This series is a fine example of classic fantasy, and while Eddings is clearly indebted to Tolkien in many ways, it's also obvious that he is writing from his own context in which the Cold War with the USSR was alive and real. The books are also free of foul language and blasphemy, and anything inappropriate is merely alluded to at most, so even younger teens could read it. The distinction between good and evil is also very clear throughout.
The introduction to each book notes that Eddings was inspired to write these books in order explore some philosophical and technical aspects of the fantasy genre. Apparently he wrote the series after taking a course in literary criticism, and had the aim of using many stock characters and ideas but within an original world of his own.
Given his aim to create a standard fantasy story, but one that was engaging, in my opinion he has succeeded. He is clearly working with many staples of the genre, including hero figures and a quest to recover a magic item that will lead to a kingdom of peace. But unlike many other fantasies, his world isn't filled with fantastic beasts in the first place, but with interesting characters. The unique contribution Eddings especially makes to the genre lies in the rich theology he has invented, with a pantheon of gods. Their role and activity is an important background to the novel.
Whether it was deliberate or unconscious on the part of the author, it is evident that he does draw on many themes also found in the Bible. For example, a key element of the story is the role of a special Prophecy, which has come from the gods and is certain to come to pass, even though the characters themselves don't always understand all aspects of it. Garion himself is a Messianic figure, and there are some interesting questions about how he must come to terms with his own identity. I also found the spiritual struggles of Relg fascinating, as he tries to come to terms with his own struggle with desire and lust, and constantly sees it in a spiritual way.
But in the end, this is in the first place a good and entertaining story, served in a traditional fantasy mould. I enjoyed it enough to want to read The Mallorean series, which is a follow-up series of five books set in the same world and with many of the same characters. Unfortunately that wasn't quite as good. There are also two individual follow-up books (entitled Belgarath and Polgara respectively) but these are only worthwhile if you really want to know more about the characters. If you're a fan of classic fantasy fiction, then start with The Belgariad series, and you're almost certain to love it!

After completing my bachelors degree, I had a 6 months break before I started my honours degree. So during that waiting period, I decided to follow my interests and curiosities. For a very long time I wanted to read self development books but somehow I couldn’t get my hands on those books until that break period after my bachelors degree. So I started reading then I found that I enjoyed jigsaw puzzles then I already knew I was interested in sudoku so I would spend some time everyday doing that. The more time I spent doing what I love, one day eventually I found my passion. Which is writing. One day I felt called to write a book and I started writing immediately. I just loved the process and I immensely enjoyed it more than anything and I knew that’s my passion. Then when I looked back at my childhood, I realised I liked everything that had to do with writing whether it’s to write long essays or practicing math problems for hours. It’s at that time that I realised that it’s not math that I loved but that I get to write for hours.
Then eventually I got into non-religious oneness based spirituality where I learnt about the purpose of life, laws of nature, why things are the way they are and why situations are different for all of us and what’s the only power that we have over reality.
Today, everything I do has writing as the base for it.
I hope my story inspires you to find ur passion and purpose in life!

After completing my bachelors degree, I had a 6 months break before I started my honours degree. So during that waiting period, I decided to follow my interests and curiosities. For a very long time I wanted to read self development books but somehow I couldn’t get my hands on those books until that break period after my bachelors degree. So I started reading then I found that I enjoyed jigsaw puzzles then I already knew I was interested in sudoku so I would spend some time everyday doing that. The more time I spent doing what I love, one day eventually I found my passion. Which is writing. One day I felt called to write a book and I started writing immediately. I just loved the process and I immensely enjoyed it more than anything and I knew that’s my passion. Then when I looked back at my childhood, I realised I liked everything that had to do with writing whether it’s to write long essays or practicing math problems for hours. It’s at that time that I realised that it’s not math that I loved but that I get to write for hours.
Then eventually I got into non-religious oneness based spirituality where I learnt about the purpose of life, laws of nature, why things are the way they are and why situations are different for all of us and what’s the only power that we have over reality.
I hope my story inspires you to find ur passion and purpose in life!

After completing my bachelors degree, I had a 6 months break before I started my honours degree. So during that waiting period, I decided to follow my interests and curiosities. For a very long time I wanted to read self development books but somehow I couldn’t get my hands on those books until that break period after my bachelors degree. So I started reading then I found that I enjoyed jigsaw puzzles then I already knew I was interested in sudoku so I would spend some time everyday doing that. The more time I spent doing what I love, one day eventually I found my passion. Which is writing. One day I felt called to write a book and I started writing immediately. I just loved the process and I immensely enjoyed it more than anything and I knew that’s my passion. Then when I looked back at my childhood, I realised I liked everything that had to do with writing whether it’s to write long essays or practicing math problems for hours. It’s at that time that I realised that it’s not math that I loved but that I get to write for hours.
Then eventually I got into non-religious oneness based spirituality where I learnt about the purpose of life, laws of nature, why things are the way they are and why situations are different for all of us and what’s the only power that we have over reality.
I hope my story inspires you to find ur passion and purpose in life!

After completing my bachelors degree, I had a 6 months break before I started my honours degree. So during that waiting period, I decided to follow my interests and curiosities. For a very long time I wanted to read self development books but somehow I couldn’t get my hands on those books until that break period after my bachelors degree. So I started reading then I found that I enjoyed jigsaw puzzles then I already knew I was interested in sudoku so I would spend some time everyday doing that. The more time I spent doing what I love, one day eventually I found my passion. Which is writing. One day I felt called to write a book and I started writing immediately. I just loved the process and I immensely enjoyed it more than anything and I knew that’s my passion. Then when I looked back at my childhood, I realised I liked everything that had to do with writing whether it’s to write long essays or practicing math problems for hours. It’s at that time that I realised that it’s not math that I loved but that I get to write for hours.
Then eventually I got into non-religious oneness based spirituality where I learnt about the purpose of life, laws of nature, why things are the way they are and why situations are different for all of us and what’s the only power that we have over reality.
So in summary, it is being in the vibration of love for a long time that helped me discover my passion.
I hope my story inspires you to find ur passion and purpose in life!

After completing my bachelors degree, I had a 6 months break before I started my honours degree. So during that waiting period, I decided to follow my interests and curiosities. For a very long time I wanted to read self development books but somehow I couldn’t get my hands on those books until that break period after my bachelors degree. So I started reading then I found that I enjoyed jigsaw puzzles then I already knew I was interested in sudoku so I would spend some time everyday doing that. The more time I spent doing what I love, one day eventually I found my passion. Which is writing. One day I felt called to write a book and I started writing immediately. I just loved the process and I immensely enjoyed it more than anything and I knew that’s my passion. Then when I looked back at my childhood, I realised I liked everything that had to do with writing whether it’s to write long essays or practicing math problems for hours. It’s at that time that I realised that it’s not math that I loved but that I get to write for hours.
Then eventually I got into non-religious oneness based spirituality where I learnt about the purpose of life, laws of nature, why things are the way they are and why situations are different for all of us and what’s the only power that we have over reality.
I hope my story inspires you to find ur passion and purpose in life!

After completing my bachelors degree, I had a 6 months break before I started my honours degree. So during that waiting period, I decided to follow my interests and curiosities. For a very long time I wanted to read self development books but somehow I couldn’t get my hands on those books until that break period after my bachelors degree. So I started reading then I found that I enjoyed jigsaw puzzles then I already knew I was interested in sudoku so I would spend some time everyday doing that. The more time I spent doing what I love, one day eventually I found my passion. Which is writing. One day I felt called to write a book and I started writing immediately. I just loved the process and I immensely enjoyed it more than anything and I knew that’s my passion. Then when I looked back at my childhood, I realised I liked everything that had to do with writing whether it’s to write long essays or practicing math problems for hours. It’s at that time that I realised that it’s not math that I loved but that I get to write for hours.
Then eventually I got into non-religious oneness based spirituality where I learnt about the purpose of life, laws of nature, why things are the way they are and why situations are different for all of us and what’s the only power that we have over reality.
I hope my story inspires you to find ur passion and purpose in life!

Hello and welcome to my post. I would like to make a friend.
Here are my interests:
History. I have had an interest in history for almost a decade now, it started back in school and developed from there. Well, now that I think about it one could argue that it started even earlier in my life as I liked watching the odd historic documentary or film aired on television but it wasn't regular back then, I never actively sought it out. I am mostly interested in European history in the period between the 18th-20th century but I sometimes branch out to other time periods and other parts of the world. I watch various channels related to history and read articles and sometimes books. I have recently got a few books on the German revolution of 1848/1849 and a historical magazine on the Thirty Years' War. Besides that I try to visit museums sometimes.
Literature. Especially old novels. I like to immerse myself in the Worlds of these books, I tend to read them while listening to thematically fitting music and take my time with them. One time you are following a troubled Youth in his quest for spiritual understanding of the world, another you see the aged and decrepit Doctor gambling his very Soul on the promises of abtaining satisfaction in earthy pleasures, then again your olfaction notices the most pleasant scent known to man even as the one eminating it has the appearance of a revolting Frog. These and many other stories open up to you once you decide to set foot into the literary World.
Languages. I know three, with one being a bit rusty. I am currently working intently on strengthening it. I believe that if I continue to apply myself in this regard then I should be able to finally conquer it. What language am I working on? Well, if you were to stack all the major works in it they would be as tall as a house... It is fun to go through different works in multiple languages, the same goes for film, games and such.
Games. I recently played Cyberpunk 2077. Well as recently as I played any major story centric game. Now that the dust has settled and the bugs mostly removed...It's not that bad. The main questline at least. Besides that I tried Fallout 76 (Very average, I'm dissapointed with what they made the "RPG" system) and I might give Deus Ex Manking Divided another spin (since it's somewhat similar to Cyberpunk when it comes to its aesthetics). Dark Souls is one of my favorite series, I still haven't beaten Elden Ring though. When it came out I wasn't in the right mindset to invest a hundred hours into it, with all those bosses and difficult locations. I think I'll only consider playing it if I am streaming it to someone. I am generally interested in either streaming games or having the person I am talking to stream them to me. To be specific I mean streaming to a single person while being on call. Besides that I'm a big fan of Paradox strategy games, especially Europa Universalis IV and Heats of Iron IV, I tend to only play single player since I find multiplayer with many people to be rather stressful but on the other hand I have nothing against a co-op game. I'm not the best player though, despite the ammount of hours I have in them. Another great game I would mention would be Dragon's Dogma. A very underrated RPG. I recently beat it again and it was an atmospheric and interesting experience. It is one of those games that feel like they have an endless ammount of depth and constant new secrets to discover.
Anime and Manga. In recent times my interest in them has waned but I still watch the occasional series here and there. Like Cyberpunk Edgerunners (Which I found to be rather mediocre) and the very good first season from the new arc of Bleach. Some of my favourite series include: Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood, Death Note, Fate;Zero, Psycho Pass, Code Geass and Attack on Titan. I wouldn't mind if you were to introduce me to some new series, maybe based on the ones I mentioned. My favourite Manga is Berserk which I still follow, althought I am still not certain on the direction that the new author is taking. I suppose it really is a matter of contention whether a somewhat (or considerably warped) vision is better than an unfinished work. One could argue that a few novels remain unfinished and possess a macabre appeal to them as such.
Music. Classical music has a very special place in my heart. A few of my favourite pieces would be: Clair de Lune, Nocturne Op. 9 No.2, Devil's Trill Sonata, Danse Macabre, Valse Sentimentale, Symphony No. 7 in A Major, Op. 92: II. Alegreto (by Beethoven) and Suite from Swan Lake, Op. 20a: I. Scene. Moderato. There are more but these ones always invoke something in me when I listen to them. Besides Classical I also enjoy listening to Synthwave, old Western pop and J-pop, both modern and from the 20th century.
Well that about wraps it up for my interests. I would like to add a few things before I finish. I am neurodivergent (autism spectrum) and struggle with mental health. I respect the struggles others have but due to certain negative experiences I would prefer to find another Aspie. I am rather introverted and I do not have a large social circle. If I like someone I want to spend as much time with them as possible. I have been hurt in the past by caring about someone much more than they about me so I would like to avoid such things now.
If you decide to message me I ask that you send a DM instead of a chat and tell me about yourself. Take care.

Hello and welcome to my post. I would like to make a friend.
Here are my interests:
History. I have had an interest in history for almost a decade now, it started back in school and developed from there. Well, now that I think about it one could argue that it started even earlier in my life as I liked watching the odd historic documentary or film aired on television but it wasn't regular back then, I never actively sought it out. I am mostly interested in European history in the period between the 18th-20th century but I sometimes branch out to other time periods and other parts of the world. I watch various channels related to history and read articles and sometimes books. I have recently got a few books on the German revolution of 1848/1849 and a historical magazine on the Thirty Years' War. Besides that I try to visit museums sometimes.
Literature. Especially old novels. I like to immerse myself in the Worlds of these books, I tend to read them while listening to thematically fitting music and take my time with them. One time you are following a troubled Youth in his quest for spiritual understanding of the world, another you see the aged and decrepit Doctor gambling his very Soul on the promises of abtaining satisfaction in earthy pleasures, then again your olfaction notices the most pleasant scent known to man even as the one eminating it has the appearance of a revolting Frog. These and many other stories open up to you once you decide to set foot into the literary World.
Languages. I know three, with one being a bit rusty. I am currently working intently on strengthening it. I believe that if I continue to apply myself in this regard then I should be able to finally conquer it. What language am I working on? Well, if you were to stack all the major works in it they would be as tall as a house... It is fun to go through different works in multiple languages, the same goes for film, games and such.
Games. I recently played Cyberpunk 2077. Well as recently as I played any major story centric game. Now that the dust has settled and the bugs mostly removed...It's not that bad. The main questline at least. Besides that I tried Fallout 76 (Very average, I'm dissapointed with what they made the "RPG" system) and I might give Deus Ex Manking Divided another spin (since it's somewhat similar to Cyberpunk when it comes to its aesthetics). Dark Souls is one of my favorite series, I still haven't beaten Elden Ring though. When it came out I wasn't in the right mindset to invest a hundred hours into it, with all those bosses and difficult locations. I think I'll only consider playing it if I am streaming it to someone. I am generally interested in either streaming games or having the person I am talking to stream them to me. To be specific I mean streaming to a single person while being on call. Besides that I'm a big fan of Paradox strategy games, especially Europa Universalis IV and Heats of Iron IV, I tend to only play single player since I find multiplayer with many people to be rather stressful but on the other hand I have nothing against a co-op game. I'm not the best player though, despite the ammount of hours I have in them. Another great game I would mention would be Dragon's Dogma. A very underrated RPG. I recently beat it again and it was an atmospheric and interesting experience. It is one of those games that feel like they have an endless ammount of depth and constant new secrets to discover.
Anime and Manga. In recent times my interest in them has waned but I still watch the occasional series here and there. Like Cyberpunk Edgerunners (Which I found to be rather mediocre) and the very good first season from the new arc of Bleach. Some of my favourite series include: Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood, Death Note, Fate;Zero, Psycho Pass, Code Geass and Attack on Titan. I wouldn't mind if you were to introduce me to some new series, maybe based on the ones I mentioned. My favourite Manga is Berserk which I still follow, althought I am still not certain on the direction that the new author is taking. I suppose it really is a matter of contention whether a somewhat (or considerably warped) vision is better than an unfinished work. One could argue that a few novels remain unfinished and possess a macabre appeal to them as such.
Music. Classical music has a very special place in my heart. A few of my favourite pieces would be: Clair de Lune, Nocturne Op. 9 No.2, Devil's Trill Sonata, Danse Macabre, Valse Sentimentale, Symphony No. 7 in A Major, Op. 92: II. Alegreto (by Beethoven) and Suite from Swan Lake, Op. 20a: I. Scene. Moderato. There are more but these ones always invoke something in me when I listen to them. Besides Classical I also enjoy listening to Synthwave, old Western pop and J-pop, both modern and from the 20th century.
Well that about wraps it up for my interests. I would like to add a few things before I finish. I am neurodivergent (autism spectrum) and struggle with mental health. I respect the struggles others have but due to certain negative experiences I would prefer to find another Aspie. I am rather introverted and I do not have a large social circle. If I like someone I want to spend as much time with them as possible. I have been hurt in the past by caring about someone much more than they about me so I would like to avoid such things now.
If you decide to message me I ask that you send a DM instead of a chat and tell me about yourself. Take care.

Are you taking care of your 6 human needs?
Remember that they all are very important for you to be happy without pornography.
So if you are taking care of them - you will quit your addiction much faster, because you will not need fake source of pleasure to be happy.
You will already be happy!

Here are 6 human needs description and tips:

• CERTAINTY

Gives you confidence, sense of security and trust.
If you don't have it - you will feel a lot of pressure, stress and anxiety, because you don't trust anyone or everything that is happening in the world or around you. (You will feel bad)
However - if you have too much certainty - you will feel BORED and Overwhelmed. That's a feeling of being stuck in a predictable, boring routine.
And in many cases, including mine - boredom is one of the main triggers for addiction, because you will tend to look for something that can excites you. And nothing can excites you more than something that gives you so much PLEASURE!
Bad Certainty Behavior: Overeating, control of others, binge watch TV/Netfilx/Anime, procrastination, etc..
Manage your certainty by - cleaning, developing empowering rituals(workout, exercise, meditation, reading, etc), focusing on the things you want in life, instead of listening or following others.
​

• UNCERTAINTY / VARIETY

You might be asking - ''but why the Heck I need Uncertainty?''
That's the FUN part. It will get you out of the BOREDOM of certainty.
Our human needs are built in a very strange way, that they actually are in conflict with each other. But if you look deep - you will understand that it is exactly what gives your life Drive and Excitement!
That's why you need Uncertainty, or in other words - Variety.
You need to have something unpredictable happening in your life, or else - it will be boring!
That's like - eating one and the same dish all the time. Very soon - you will get bored or even sick of it!
Bad Uncertainty Behavior: Overwhelm, drug, intoxication, change TV channels/Anime/Netfilx, Self sabotage, create drama and problems.
Manage your Uncertainty by: new challenges, changing the meaning of events, hobbies, be creative, learn and discover new things
​

• LOVE & CONNECTION

In short - if you don't care about this - you will feel LONELY.
And loneliness is the MAIN triggereason for you to stay in this addiction! No matter you like it or not!
Love & Connection is when you feel that someone is actually caring about you. Or supports you in a certain way.
We all need this feeling! Or else - we will feel very Lonely.
Bad Love & Connection Behavior: being needy, self harm, unhealthy/toxic relationships
Manage Love & Connection by: sharing, supporting others, connect through nature, faith, loving and respecting yourself, independent relationships
Tip: If you can't create relationships right now for one reason or another - Spirituality and connection with God also takes part of this Human Need!
​

• 𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗡𝗜𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘

This human need is all about being heard, noticed, recognized and simply - listened.
It is the feeling of being unique, special and being needed.
If you don't have it - you will feel worthless and depressed.
Bad Significance Behavior: People can often raise their sense of significance by using alcohol, engage into arguments, talk gossips, being victim, tell sad stories about self, rebellion or surround yourself with people who seems less skilled or attractive, so you can stand out.
This approach is neither good nor healthy.
Manage your Significance by: directing your competitive nature into healthy activities, like sports, mastering new skill, speaking up, mastering a craft or field, achieving goal or volunteering.
​

• 𝗚𝗥𝗢𝗪𝗧𝗛

"𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘭𝘭 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦." 𝙏𝙤𝙣𝙮 𝙍𝙤𝙗𝙗𝙞𝙣𝙨
If you are not growing as an individual - sooner or later it will make you feel bad, or even worthless. Especially if you have friends, or someone you know, who are doing better than you and are completely succeeding in life, while you are not moving at all.
Don't worry - you can become someone you always wanted to be, if you will take this human need seriously!
Bad Growth Behavior: Gathering information without applying. (Learning is cool and might be very exciting, but without applying it in real life - it is worthless.)
People whose core need is growth are always striving to be better and learn more.
Manage your Growth by: self development, leaning & practicing, pursuit of mastery, teaching others (The more you teach - the better you learn)
Don't forget emotional and spiritual growth as well!
​

• 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗕𝗨𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡

Last but not least - feeling of doing something MEANINGFUL.
It is a sense of service and focus on helping, giving and supporting others.
Colleagues, schoolmates, people in college, your family, friends, or just random person on street...
Giving back is the best way to fulfill this need. The closer the cause is to your heart, the more fulfilled you will feel.
Bad Contribution Behavior: Giving to get, being a martyr, not taking care of self
Manage your Contribution by: volunteering, donating, helping people (I believe animals can be included as well)
Tip: help people who are struggling to start quitting porn addiction. While you are still not done with this - you are way ahead of those who are only starting, right?
Go ahead and help others! Keep others accountable and you will feel better as well!
View Poll

Here's a story how I became a walking Inanna embodied entity here on Earth.
So let's start... I grew up in the suburbs of Colorado in a dark house with an abusive family. My father was quite dark and my mom was not here mentally due to autism. The sick energy of my father's abuse and the land caused a haunted house with sentient poltergeists. I was the black sheep of most things and my main friends were the men in the walls, so I grew up with the dead instead of the living.
I started hearing voices young, but they'd come with some advice and helped guide me through the world, so I've always trusted that they had my better interest then most of the people I was around. I've been a rather reclused person, but I've always tried to remain a kind person, even when I have my darker sides from the trauma of childhood and adulthood. I've kept a relationship with spirit my whole life.
I grew up to be a talented artist in garment creation. I got known for designing fairytale themed ballroom gowns and was dubbed a fairy godmother by the models I worked with, but my trauma got the best of me and I wound up with a narcissistic man. I fell into a space where I assumed I had done something to deserve the abuse he dished out. Then, in August 2020, he had a full psychotic episode. It was like a demonic possession and the worst month of my life. He also referred to me as a Goddess and himself as the God Dumuzi. I developed ulcers from the amount of stress and had near death experience where the Goddess Inanna appeared out of the waters of the dead river and requested me to go back to Earth.
Her voice continued guiding me. She pointed out where my mind was and helped rework it to realize the situation I was in and finally flee after my ex gave me a mild stroke and seizures. I fled to my sister who ironically was in a "contemporary shamanism" cult, mainly based on death magic. They worship some entity called "Crazy Woman".
At first, their version of shamanism was helpful. I had some knowledge and have studied into Shintoism, Hinduism and Pagan religions. The group seemed kind and wanting to help, but I studied narcissism and the effects on people, and I quickly started to pick up on the red flags by the Godhead in charge of the group. When I brought it up, I would be met with an intense amount of hostility and violence along with a whole trained technique of narcissism on a spiritual level. It felt like I was energetically being eaten alive and I couldn't stay awake. I lost my ability to create or basically function, again, thinking it's me.
But this whole time, I had Inanna telling me other things like, "You're to meet a great storyteller and solve the riddles of the world." I didn't believe it. My personal life was so dark ,and my brain was so damaged, I no longer could function on a cognitive level. Then, another friend and I, who also hears guiding voices, followed their advice to do a ritual to escape what Inanna called "A mind maze". We ironically drew the eye of Ra with our car as we ventured across the Cascade mountains and over a giant river. We did what's called a soul retrieval from hell and Inanna took over my body. It worked and our minds started to settle after about 3 days.
Then reality shifted my sister in a rage violently attacking and humping me screaming, "I'm the crazy woman!" I ran outside to fall in front of some stranger I didn't know, but had seen him around before. I unloaded everything crazy about my life and this stranger simply asked "Have you heard of the Djinn?" When I said no, he went on to explain ancient knowledge, saying that he studied the quorum tablets, language and indigenous studies from a ancient tribe in Persia (or now Iran). He's like a wizard or something. We went on to talk about the Annunaki and Sumeria, where Inanna comes from, and I recognized him immediately as the great storyteller. He came with a slew of unusual spiritual gifts. We now hang out, constantly picking at each other's cultures and learning so much about the world. Ironically, he read my parents book as a child and idolized the life of the child who's parents are Paleontologists.
Slowly, Inanna and I have learned to switch places and she uses my body to heal victims of narcissistic abuse, mainly 20 year olds (Generation Z). It's taken a whole group of young brilliant minds, a stream strange coincidences that can't explained, and people who seem brought to you by the universe or sky itself to center you down and realize your actually not insane or seeing things. I somehow just learned how to do this by sheer will to fight against the abuse that was being done to me to enchant something real because the people in the rich, contemporary shamanism keep it in secret. They are stealing indigenous knowledge of healing and are using it to hurt people and force them into their belief system. Somehow, I did this, and its honestly unbelievable. Most of them and my life seems almost unreal (or insane) to most people, but somehow, some way.... The entity known as Inanna is coming down and lending a helping hand to those in need. My friends all say I'm the real thing, looking into my eyes and calling me a gift to the world when what I used to hearing was how I was the devil and waspushed into such darkness. Now I have light and dark humbly embodied into a fairytale couture designer by a hell goddess who brought me back from the dead.
So here I am on the will of dragon (dinosaur) spirits, guided by crazy goddess grabbing random young adults to give them some hope and guidance in the poverty class as I live in my run down little apartment creating fairy tale gowns and working nights at the grocery story, fairy godmothering doesnt pay much these. This is wild 😜