Personally, I am not a fan the approach because it seems like a half-baked proposal that fails to get to the core of the problem. However, this is nothing new as the NDP constantly puts forth half measures and band-aid solutions.
Why is the current proposal a half measure? Because the "excess profits" are generated by the oligopolistic market structure. That is, the grocery corporations have monopolized to the point where they have so much market power that they can raise their prices without much of a fear of losing customers / market share due to an lack of competition within the industry.
Unfortunately, oligopolistic market structures, such as the one which enables big grocers to accumulate monopoly profits, have now become widespread and pervasive. While we should take notice of the behemoth corporations that sprouted out of the last four and half decades of globalization, it is fundamentally our neoliberal political paradigm that brought this about by annihilating our protectionist policies to allow the free movement of capital and commodities, by privatizing our national industry, and by ensuing an abundance of labor so that real wages in most industries would never rise (or, as in the case of the grocers, be driven right down to minimum wage).
In short, we need to start focusing more on our contemporary economic conditions and forms of market structure (including the labor and housing market) because these have been organized in a way by neoliberal politicians to facilitate an increasing concentration of capital / worsening economic stratification. That is, both our economy and the global economy have been intentionally structured to vastly enrich a small minority of capitalists and speculators while, on the other hand, intensifying the immiseration of the working class.
In reaction to such oppressive and exploitative economic circumstances, Jagmeet is absolutely right to call out monopolists and threaten them with additional taxes if their quarterly profits are deemed by (at least progressive) politicians to be excessively high. However, while increasing taxation on these corporations would undoubtably be beneficial, I do not believe it gets to the deep core of the problem.
I think it is clear to everyone that Jagmeet is a sweet-hearted guy who undoubtedly deserves credit on his cultural inclusiveness. He constantly makes us proud when he rallies to the defense of marginalized populations. However, it is also evident that Jagmeet is not a visionary. That is, he does not have a bold vision of a post-(neo)liberal social order in which we overcome the current afflictions of late capitalism.
Unfortunately, such a lack of futural vision seems to run throughout the entire NDP.. we have still not overcome the sentiment of resignation that impelled us to relinquish the term "socialist", and such an impotent stance is causing us to lose disillusioned working class voters to (absurd as it is) Poilievre. Even as the liberal party implodes and widespread social discontentment intensifies, the NDP fail to make gains.
In order to face the encountered challenge, the NDP needs to recognize that at this present moment in history we are facing multiple, overlapping crises in which our current institutions and ideational convictions are unable to resolve. In other words, our current institutions are slow collapsing under the weight of the numerous contradictions plaguing contemporary society. Such a bleak situation is engulfing the country in a cloud of despair, fueling reactionary populism, and leading us down a path of disaster.
Thus, to move us out of such a deadlock, the NDP and its leadership need to be visionaries who espouse a bold eco-socialist form of society by which we can overcome the malaise of late capitalism. The populace demands real solutions to real problems, and if the NDP could muster up the courage and insight to deliver this to them, we would once again experience a much needed taste of hope.

I’ve always hated the smell of gun oil. It clings to everything it touches, soaking deep into the fibers of my clothes, the lining of my backpack, the coarse hair on the back of my hands. Yet here I am, kneeling on the cracked linoleum of our mudroom, a Remington .308 laid across my thighs, and the stench of gun oil sharp in my nostrils. The early morning light barely scratches at the edges of the blinds, dim and gray like the belly of a dead fish.
My dad Frank is in the kitchen, clattering around with the coffeepot and mumbling under his breath. Today we’re heading up to the woods of Northern Michigan, same as we did every year before Leah… before we lost her.
I can’t help but feel the old scars throbbing as I load bullets into the magazine. It’s been ten years since that hunting trip, the one that tore my family into before and after. Before, when Leah's laughter was a constant soundtrack to our lives; after, when every silence was filled with her absence.
We were just kids back then. I was ten, Leah was eight. It was supposed to be a typical hunting trip, one of those bonding experiences Dad was always talking about. But things went wrong. We got separated from Dad somehow. One minute we were following him, the next we were lost, the dense woods closing in around us.
Dad says when he found me, I was huddled under a fallen tree, my eyes wide, my body frozen. All I could mutter through chattering teeth was "Dogman."
It was only later, after the search parties had combed through every thicket and hollow, that they found her. What remained of Leah was barely recognizable, the evidence of a brutal mauling undeniable. The authorities concluded it was likely a bear attack, but Dad... he never accepted that explanation. He had seen the tracks, too large and oddly shaped for any bear.
As I load another round, the memory flashes, unbidden and unwelcome. Large, hairy clawed hands reaching out towards us, impossibly big, grotesque in their form. Yet, the rest of the creature eludes me, a shadow just beyond the edge of my recall, leaving me with nothing but fragmented terrors and Leah’s haunting, echoing screams. My mind blocked most of it out, a self-defense mechanism, I guess.
For years after that day, sleep was a battleground. I'd wake up in strange places—kitchen floor, backyard, even at the edge of the nearby creek. My therapist said it was my mind's way of trying to resolve the unresolved, to wander back through the woods searching for Leah. But all I found in those sleepless nights was a deeper sense of loss.
It took time, a lot of therapy, and patience I didn't know I had, but the sleepwalking did eventually stop. I guess I started to find some semblance of peace.
I have mostly moved on with my life. The fragmentary memories of that day are still there, lurking in the corners of my mind, but they don’t dominate my thoughts like they used to. I just finished my sophomore year at Michigan State, majoring in Environmental Science.
As for Dad, the loss of Leah broke him. He became a shell of himself. It destroyed his marriage with Mom. He blamed himself for letting us out of his sight, for not protecting Leah. His life took on a single, consuming focus: finding the creature that killed her. He read every book, every article on cryptids and unexplained phenomena. He mapped sightings, connected dots across blurry photos and shaky testimonies of the Dogman.
But as the tenth anniversary of Leah’s death approaches, Dad's obsession has grown more intense. He’s started staying up late, poring over his maps and notes, muttering to himself about patterns and cycles. He’s convinced that the dogman reappears every ten years, and this is our window of opportunity to finally hunt it down.
I’m not nearly as convinced. The whole dogman thing seems like a coping mechanism, a way for Dad to channel his guilt and grief into something tangible, something he can fight against. But I decided to tag along on this trip, partly to keep an eye on him, partly because a small part of me hopes that maybe, just maybe, we’ll find some kind of closure out there in the woods.
I finish loading the rifle and set it aside, standing up to stretch my legs. I wipe my greasy hands on an old rag, trying to get rid of the smell. The early morning light is starting to seep into the room, casting long shadows across the floor.
Dad comes out of the kitchen with two thermoses of coffee in hand. His eyes are bleary and tired.
“You ready, Ryan?” he asks, handing me a thermos, his voice rough from too many sleepless nights.
“Yeah, I’m ready,” I reply, trying to sound more confident than I felt.
We load our gear into the truck, the weight of our supplies and weapons a physical reminder of the burden we carry. The drive from Lansing across the Lower Peninsula is long and quiet, the silence between us filled with unspoken memories and unresolved grief.
—
The drive north is a blur of highway lines and the dull hum of the engine. I drift off, the landscape outside blending into a haze. In my sleep, fragments of that day with Leah replay like scattered pieces of a puzzle. I see her smile, the way she tugged at my sleeve, eager to explore. The sunlight filters through the trees in sharp, jagged streaks.
Then, the memory shifts—darker, disjointed. Leah's voice echoes, a playful laugh turning into a scream that pierces the air. The crunch of leaves underfoot as something heavy moves through the underbrush. I see a shadow, large and looming, not quite fitting the shapes of any creature I know.
Then, something darker creeps into the dream, something I’ve never allowed myself to remember clearly.
Before I can see what it is I wake up with a start as the truck jerks slightly on a rough patch of road. Dad glances over. "Bad dream?" he asks. I nod, rubbing the sleep from my eyes, the remnants of the dream clinging to me like the cold.
"Yeah, just... thinking about Leah," I manage to say.
As we drive, Dad attempts to bridge the silence with small talk. He asks about my finals, my plans for the summer, anything to keep the conversation going. His voice carries a forced cheerfulness, but it’s clear his heart isn’t in it. I respond when necessary, my answers brief, my gaze fixed on the passing scenery.
The landscape changes as we head further north, from flat expanses to rolling hills dotted with dense patches of forest. It's beautiful country, the kind that reminds you how vast and wild Michigan can be, but today it just feels oppressive, like it’s closing in on us.
—
We finally arrive at the cabin, nestled deep in the woods, its weathered wood blending seamlessly with the surrounding trees. The place hasn't changed much since the last time I was here—a relic from another time, filled with the echoes of our past. I can still see Leah running around the porch, her laughter ringing out into the forest.
Dad parks the truck, and we step out into the crisp air. The smell of pine and damp earth fills my nostrils. We start unloading our gear, the tension between us palpable.
“Let’s get this inside,” Dad says, his voice gruff as he hefts a duffel bag onto his shoulder.
I nod, grabbing my own bag and following him to the cabin. Inside, it’s a mix of old and new—the same rustic furniture, but with new hunting gear and maps strewn across the table. Dad’s obsession is evident in every corner of the room, a constant reminder of why we’re here.
As we unpack, we exchange strained attempts at normalcy. He talks about the latest cryptid sightings he’s read about, his eyes lighting up with a fervor that both worries and saddens me.
“Did you hear about the sighting up near Alpena?” he asks, laying out his maps on the table.
“Yeah, you mentioned it,” I reply, trying to muster some enthusiasm. “Do you really think there’s something to it?”
Dad’s eyes meet mine, and for a moment, I see a flicker of doubt. But it’s quickly replaced by grim determination. “I have to believe it, Ryan. It’s the only thing that makes sense.”
We finish unpacking, the silence between us growing heavier with each passing minute. I step outside to clear my head, the cool air a welcome relief. The sun is starting to set, casting long shadows across the clearing. I can’t shake the feeling of unease.
"You can take the upstairs room," Dad mutters. His voice is strained, trying to sound normal, but it's clear the weight of the past is heavy on him. I nod, hauling my backpack up the creaking stairs to the small bedroom that I used to share with Leah. The room feels smaller now, or maybe I've just grown too much since those innocent days.
I unpack silently, setting my things aside. The bed is stiff and cold under my touch. As I settle in, I can't help but glance at the corner where Leah and I would huddle together, whispering secrets and making plans for adventures that would never happen. I push the thoughts away, focusing on the practicalities of unpacking.
After settling in, I go back downstairs to find Dad loading up a backpack with supplies for our hunt. The intensity in his eyes is palpable, his hands moving with practiced precision. I know this routine; it's one he's perfected over countless solo trips since that fateful day.
"We'll head out early," he says, not looking up from his task. "Gotta make the most of the daylight."
I nod, though unease curls in my stomach. I'm not just worried about what we might find—or not find—out there. I'm worried about him. Each year, the obsession seems to carve him out a bit more, leaving less of the Dad I knew.
—
The morning air is sharp with the scent of pine and wet earth as Dad and I head into the deeper parts of the forest. The terrain is rugged, familiar in its untamed beauty, but there’s a tension between us that makes the landscape feel alien. Dad moves with a purposeful stride, his eyes scanning the woods around us. Every snap of a twig, every rustle in the underbrush seems to draw his attention. He’s on edge, and it puts me on edge too.
As we walk, my mind drifts back to that day ten years ago. I can almost hear Leah’s voice echoing through the trees, her high-pitched call as she darted ahead, "Catch me, Ryan!" I remember how the sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dancing shadows on the ground. Those memories are so vivid, so tangible, it feels like I could just turn a corner and see her there, waiting for us.
Dad suddenly stops and kneels, examining the ground. He points out a set of tracks that are too large for a deer, with an unusual gait pattern. "It’s been here, Ry. I’m telling you, it’s close," he whispers, a mixture of excitement and something darker in his voice. I nod, though I’m not sure what to believe. Part of me wants to dismiss it all as grief-fueled obsession, but another part, the part that heard Leah's scream and saw something monstrous in the woods that day, isn’t so sure.
As we continue, Dad's comments become increasingly cryptic. "You know, they say the dogman moves in cycles, drawn to certain places, certain times. Like it’s tied to the land itself," he muses, more to himself than to me. His fixation on the creature has always been intense, but now it borders on mania.
We set up a makeshift blind near a clearing where Dad insists the creature will pass. Hours drag by with little to see but the occasional bird or distant deer.
The sun rises higher in the sky, casting long, slender shadows through the dense canopy. I shift uncomfortably in my spot, the forest floor hard and unyielding beneath me. My eyes dart between the trees, hoping to catch a glimpse of something, anything, to break the monotony. Dad, on the other hand, remains steadfast, his gaze fixed on the treeline as if he can will the dogman into existence by sheer force of will.
A bird chirps nearby, startling me. I sigh and adjust my grip on the rifle. I glance over at Dad.
“Anything?” I ask, more out of boredom than genuine curiosity.
“Not yet,” he replies, his voice tight. “But it’s out there. I know it.”
I nod, even though I’m not sure I believe him. The forest seems too quiet, too still. Maybe we’re chasing ghosts.
As the sun begins its descent, the forest is bathed in a warm, golden light. The air cools, and a breeze rustles the leaves. I shiver, more from anticipation than the cold. The long hours of sitting and waiting are starting to wear on me.
“Let’s call it a day for now,” Dad says finally, his voice heavy with disappointment. “We’ll head back to the cabin, get some rest, and try again tomorrow.”
I stand and stretch, feeling the stiffness in my muscles. We pack up our gear in silence and start the trek back to the cabin. The walk is long and quiet, the only sounds are the crunch of leaves underfoot and the distant calls of birds settling in for the night.
—
Dinner is a quiet affair, both of us lost in our thoughts. I try to make small talk, asking Dad about his plans for tomorrow, but it feels forced. We clean up in silence.
After dinner, I retreat to the small bedroom. The fatigue from the day's hike has settled into my bones, but sleep still feels like a distant hope. I lie down, staring at the ceiling, the room cloaked in darkness save for the sliver of moonlight creeping through the window. Downstairs, I hear the faint sound of Dad moving around, likely unable to sleep himself.
I drift into sleep, but it's not restful. My dreams pull me back to that fateful day in the woods. Leah's voice is clear and vibrant, her laughter echoing through the trees. She looks just as she did then—bright-eyed and full of life, her blonde hair catching the sunlight as she runs ahead of me.
"Come on, Ry! You can't catch me!" she taunts, her voice playful and teasing.
I chase after her, but the scene shifts abruptly. The sky darkens, the woods around us growing dense and foreboding. Leah's laughter fades, replaced by a chilling silence. I see her ahead, standing still, her back to me.
"Leah?" I call out, my voice trembling. She turns slowly, her eyes wide and filled with fear. "Ryan, you have to remember," she says, her voice barely a whisper. "It wasn't what you think. You need to know the truth."
Leah’s words hang in the air, cryptic and unsettling. Before I can respond, she turns and starts running again, her figure becoming a blur among the trees. Panic rises in my chest as I sprint after her, my feet pounding against the forest floor.
“Leah, wait!” I shout, desperation lacing my voice. The forest around me seems to close in, the trees towering and twisted, shadows dancing menacingly in the dim light. I push forward, trying to keep her in sight, but she’s too fast, slipping away like a wisp of smoke.
Suddenly, there’s a rustle, a flash of movement in the corner of my vision. Leah screams, a sound that pierces through the heavy silence. It happens too quickly—I can’t see what it is, only a dark blur that snatches her up.
“Leah!” I scream, my voice breaking. I stumble, falling to my knees as the forest spins around me. My heart races, and the terror is so real, so visceral, that it pulls me back to that awful day, the one that changed everything.
I jolt awake, my breath coming in ragged gasps.
I sit up, wiping the cold sweat from my forehead as I try to steady my breathing. The room is still dark, the shadows cast by the moonlight seem to flicker and dance on the walls. My heart is still racing from the nightmare, the echo of Leah's scream lingering in my ears.
As I struggle to calm down, the floorboards outside my room creak. The door opens slowly, and I see the silhouette of my dad in the doorway, a Bowie knife in his hand, his posture tense.
“Dad, what the hell are you doing?” I whisper, my voice shaking.
“Shh,” he hisses, holding up a hand to silence me. “I heard something. Something moving around in the cabin. Stay quiet.”
I swallow hard, my mouth dry. I glance at the clock on the nightstand—it’s just past three in the morning. The cabin is silent, the kind of deep, oppressive silence that makes every small sound seem louder. I can’t hear anything out of the ordinary, but Dad’s expression is deadly serious.
He motions for me to get up, and I do, moving as quietly as I can. My heart is racing, a mix of lingering fear from the dream and the sudden, sharp anxiety of the present moment. Dad leads the way, stepping cautiously out of the bedroom and into the hallway, the knife held ready in front of him.
We move through the cabin, checking each room in turn. The living room is empty, the furniture casting long shadows in the dim moonlight. The kitchen is just as we left it, the plates from dinner still drying on the counter. Everything seems normal, untouched.
We finish our sweep of the cabin without finding anything amiss. The silence is heavy, punctuated only by our soft footfalls. I can see the tension in Dad’s frame, his grip on the knife unwavering. After checking the last room, we pause in the dimly lit hallway, the air thick with unspoken questions.
“There’s nothing here,” I say, my voice low. “Are you sure you heard something?”
He looks at me, his eyes searching for something in my face. “I heard growling. Deep and close. It was right outside the window.”
“Maybe it was just an animal outside, a raccoon or something?” I suggest, although the certainty in his voice makes me doubt my own reassurance.
“No, it wasn’t like that. It was different,” he insists, his voice tense.
I nod, not wanting to argue, but the seeds of worry are planted deep.
The look in his eyes sends a chill down my spine. It’s not just fear—it’s desperation. The kind of desperation that comes from years of chasing shadows and finding nothing. I can see the toll this hunt has taken on him, the way it’s worn him down, turned him into a man I barely recognize.
We head back to our rooms. As I lie down, my mind races with thoughts of my dad. I can’t help but wonder if he’s losing it, if the years of grief and guilt have finally pushed him over the edge.
Dad wasn’t always like this. Before Leah’s death, he was the kind of father who took us fishing, helped with homework, and told terrible jokes that made us groan and laugh at the same time. He was solid, dependable. But losing Leah changed him. The guilt twisted him into someone I barely recognize, someone driven by a need for answers, for closure, that may never come.
I try to sleep, but my thoughts keep me awake. I can hear Dad moving around downstairs, probably pacing or double-checking the locks. His paranoia has become a constant presence, and I don’t know how to help him. I don’t even know if I can help him.
—
The next morning, the sunlight filters weakly through the cabin windows, casting a pale light that does little to lift the heavy mood. I drag myself out of bed, feeling the exhaustion of another restless night. Dad is already up, hunched over his maps at the kitchen table, his eyes bloodshot from lack of sleep.
“Morning,” I mumble, rubbing the sleep from my eyes as I pour myself a cup of coffee. “Did you sleep at all?”
He shakes his head, not looking up from his notes. “Not much. I couldn’t stop thinking about what I heard last night.”
I sip my coffee, trying to shake off the remnants of my nightmare. “Maybe it was just an animal, Dad. We’re deep in the woods, after all.”
He finally looks up, his eyes intense. “Ryan, I know what I heard. It wasn’t just an animal. It was something else.”
I sigh, not wanting to argue. “Okay, fine, Dad. What’s the plan for today?”
“We’re going back out. I found some tracks yesterday, and I want to follow them. See where they lead.”
I nod, feeling a mix of apprehension and resignation. I can see how much this means to him, how desperate he is for any kind of lead. “Alright. Let’s get packed and head out.”
We spend the morning preparing, loading up our gear and double-checking our supplies. Dad is meticulous, going over everything with a fine-toothed comb. I try to match his focus, but my mind keeps drifting back to Leah and the dream I had. Her words echo in my head, cryptic and unsettling: “You need to know the truth.”
We set off into the woods, the air crisp and cool. The forest is alive with the sounds of birds and rustling leaves, but it all feels distant, like background noise to the tension between us. Dad leads the way, his eyes scanning the ground for any sign of the tracks he found yesterday.
As we walk, I can’t help but notice how erratically he’s acting. He mutters to himself, his eyes darting around as if expecting something to jump out at us. His grip on his rifle is tight, his knuckles white.
“Dad, are you okay?” I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.
He glances at me, his expression unreadable. “I’m fine. Just focused.”
He stops frequently to examine the ground or the bark of trees, pointing out marks and signs that seem meaningless to me.
“Look at this,” he says, crouching down to examine a broken branch. “See how it’s snapped? That’s not a deer or a bear. That’s something bigger. Stronger.”
I crouch next to Dad, squinting at the broken branch. To me, it just looks like a regular broken branch, the kind you see all over the forest. "I don't know, Dad. It just looks like a branch to me," I say, trying to keep my voice neutral.
Dad's eyes flicker with frustration. "You're not looking close enough. It's the way it's snapped—too clean, too deliberate. Something did this."
I nod, not wanting to argue. "Okay, sure. But even if you're right, it could be anything. A storm, another hunter..."
His expression hardens. "I know what I'm looking for. This is different."
I sigh, feeling the weight of the past and the tension between us pressing down on me. "Dad, I had a dream last night. About Leah." The words hang in the air between us, heavy and fraught with unspoken emotions.
Dad's eyes widen, and he straightens up, his entire demeanor shifting. "What kind of dream? What did you see?" His voice is urgent, almost desperate.
"It was... strange. We were in the woods, like we are now, but everything felt different. Leah was there, running ahead of me, laughing. Then she stopped and told me I needed to know the truth, that it wasn't what I thought."
Dad grabs my shoulders, his grip tight. "What else did she say? Did she tell you anything specific? Anything about the creature?"
I shake my head, feeling a chill run down my spine. "No, that was it. She just said I needed to know the truth, and then she was gone."
Dad’s grip on my shoulders tightens, and his eyes bore into mine with a mixture of desperation and hope. “Ryan, you have to try to remember. Think hard. What did the creature look like? Did you see anything else?”
I pull back slightly, uneasy with his intensity. “Dad, I told you. I don’t remember. It was just a dream. A nightmare, really. My mind’s probably just mixing things up.”
He lets go of me and runs a hand through his hair, looking frustrated and lost. “Dreams can be important. They can hold memories we’ve buried deep. Please, try to remember. This could be a sign, a clue.”
I rub my temples, feeling the beginnings of a headache. “I’ve tried, okay? I’ve tried for years to piece together what happened that day. But it’s all just fragments, like pieces of a puzzle that don’t fit. The dream… it felt real, but I don’t think it’s telling me anything new.”
Dad’s face falls, and he looks older than I’ve ever seen him. He turns away, staring into the forest as if it holds all the answers.
—
As we make our way back to the cabin, the sun begins to set, casting long shadows through the trees. The air grows colder, and I shiver, pulling my jacket tighter around me. Dad is silent, lost in his thoughts, his face drawn and haggard.
Back at the cabin, we unload our gear once again in silence. Dad disappears into his room, muttering something about going over his notes. I decide to explore the cabin, hoping to find something that might help me understand what’s going on with him.
In the attic, I find a box of old family photos and documents. As I sift through the contents, I come across a worn journal with Dad’s handwriting on the cover. Curiosity gets the better of me, and I open it, flipping through the pages.
The journal is filled with notes and sketches, detailing his obsession with the dogman. But there’s something else—entries that talk about Leah, about that day in the woods. His handwriting becomes more erratic, the words harder to read. One entry stands out, dated just a few days after Leah’s death:
“June 15, 2013 – It was supposed to be a normal trip. Keep them close, Frank, I kept telling myself. But I failed. Leah is gone, and it’s my fault. I heard her scream, saw the shadows. I tried to get to her, but… the thing, it was there. Too fast. Too strong. My hands… blood everywhere. No one will believe me. I can’t even believe myself. I have to find it. I have to protect Ryan. I have to make it right. God, what have I done?”
Before I can read further, the attic door creaks open, and Dad’s voice slices through the stillness.
“What are you doing up here?” His tone is sharp, almost panicked.
I turn to see him standing in the doorway, his face pale and his eyes wide with something between anger and fear. I clutch the journal to my chest, my mind racing. “I found this… I was just trying to understand…”
In an instant, he crosses the room and snatches the journal from my hands. His grip is tight, his knuckles white. “You had no right,” he growls, his voice trembling.
“Dad, I just wanted to know the truth!” I shout, frustration boiling over. “What really happened to Leah.”
His eyes flash with a mix of rage and anguish, and before I can react, he slaps me across the face. The force of it knocks me off balance, and I stumble backward, my cheek stinging.
For a moment, there’s a stunned silence. We both stand there, breathing hard, the air thick with tension.
“I’m sorry,” Dad says finally, his voice barely a whisper. “I didn’t mean to… I just…” He trails off, clutching the journal to his chest like a lifeline.
I touch my cheek, feeling the heat from the slap, and take a deep breath, trying to steady myself. “Dad, what aren’t you telling me? What really happened that day?”
“Stay out of it, Ryan,” Dad growls, his eyes dark with anger. “You don’t know what you’re messing with.”
He turns and storms out of the attic. I’m left standing there, my cheek throbbing, my mind racing. What the fuck is going on? What really happened to Leah? And what is Dad so afraid of?
—
That night, I sleep with my rifle within arm's reach, more afraid of my dad than any dogman. The slap still burns on my cheek, and the look in his eyes—rage, fear, something darker—haunts me. I lie awake, listening to the creaks and groans of the old cabin, every sound amplified in the stillness. Eventually, exhaustion pulls me under, and I fall into a restless sleep.
The dream returns, vivid and unsettling. I'm back in the woods, chasing after Leah. Her laughter echoes through the trees, a haunting reminder of happier times. This time, though, I push myself harder, refusing to let her slip away.
"Ryan, catch me!" she calls, her voice playful.
"I'm coming, Leah!" I shout, my legs pumping, my breath coming in ragged gasps.
The forest around us is a twisted, shadowy maze, the trees seeming to close in on us. Leah's figure becomes clearer, her blonde hair catching the dim light filtering through the canopy. She stops suddenly, turning to face me, her eyes wide with fear.
"Leah, what is it?" I ask, my voice trembling.
"Look behind you," she whispers, her voice barely audible.
I turn slowly, dread creeping up my spine. In the shadows, I see a figure, its form indistinct and shifting. It’s not quite animal, not quite human—something in between. The sight of it sends a jolt of terror through me, and I wake up with a start, my breath coming in ragged gasps.
I’m not in my bed. The ground beneath me is cold and hard, the smell of damp earth filling my nostrils. Panic rises as I realize I’ve sleepwalked into the woods. I scramble to my feet, my eyes adjusting to the dim light. The moon casts a pale glow over the surroundings, revealing what looks like a long-abandoned animal lair.
The walls are covered in giant claw marks, deep gouges in the wood and earth. The air is heavy with the scent of decay, and a chill runs through me. I can’t shake the feeling that I’m being watched.
Carefully, I start to move, my eyes scanning the ground, desperate for a familiar landmark. That's when I see them—faded scraps of fabric caught on the jagged edges of the underbrush. My steps falter, a sense of dread washing over me as I bend down to examine them. The fabric is torn, weathered by time and the elements, but unmistakably familiar. It's part of Leah's jacket—the bright pink one she wore on the day she disappeared.
As I strain to make sense of it all, a rustling sound behind me snaps my focus. My heart leaps into my throat. I spin around, my hand instinctively reaching for the rifle I don't have—because, of course, I didn't bring it in my unconscious state.
The shadowy figure that emerges from the trees is unsettlingly familiar, mirroring the menacing forms of my nightmares. But as it steps into the moonlight, I recognize the worn jacket, the weary posture. It's Dad.
"Ryan!" he calls out, his voice a mix of relief and stern concern. "I've been looking everywhere for you. What the hell are you doing out here?"
I exhale slowly, the terror ebbing away as reality sets back in. "I—I don't know, Dad. I must've sleepwalked again." My voice is shaky, my earlier dream still clinging to the edges of my consciousness.
Dad stares at me in disbelief. "You haven't sleepwalked since you were a kid, Ry. This... this isn't just a coincidence." His eyes dart around, taking in the surroundings—the eerie, claw-marked den, the unsettling quiet of the woods. "How did you even find this place?"
I shake my head, struggling to find an answer. "I don't know, Dad. I just... I woke up here." The uncertainty in my voice does nothing to ease the tension.
His eyes lock onto the tattered remains of Leah's jacket in my hands, and something inside him snaps. The color drains from his face as he stumbles a few steps backward. "This... this is where it happened," he murmurs, his voice barely a whisper. “This is where we found Leah."
“I thought you said you don’t remember anything from that night,” he says accusingly.
"I swear, Dad, I don't know anything about this place," I insist, my own heart pounding.
“It was you, wasn’t it? You’ve been hiding this from me.” His voice is frantic. “You... last night, the growling, it was you.” His voice rises, tinged with hysteria.
I step back, my pulse racing, feeling the chill of the night and the weight of his accusation. "Dad, I don't know what you're talking ab—”
"No!" he interrupts, his voice breaking as he points a trembling finger at me. "You knew, you always knew. It was you, Ryan. All these years, the evidence was right there, but I refused to see it. You were the dogman. You killed Leah!"
His words hit me like a physical blow, absurd and horrifying in their implications. "Dad, you're not making any sense. You're talking crazy! I was just a little kid! How could I–" I protest, my voice shaky.
He steps closer, his presence looming over me, the outline of his figure distorted by the shadows of the trees. "Think about it! It all makes sense now. You led us here, to this place, because you remember. Because you did it."
"Dad, stop it!" I shout, my heart pounding in my chest. "You're scaring me. You need help, professional help. This isn't you."
But he's beyond reason, his eyes wild with a haunted grief. "I have to end this," he mutters, more to himself than to me, his hand tightening around his rifle.
His finger hovers dangerously over the trigger of his rifle. My instincts kick in, and I know I have to act fast.
I lunge toward him, trying to knock the weapon away, but he's quicker than I expected. We struggle, our breaths heavy in the cold night air, the sounds of our scuffle the only noise in the otherwise silent woods. His strength surprises me, fueled by his frantic emotions. He shoves me back, and I stumble over a root, my balance lost for a crucial second. That's all he needs. He raises his rifle, his intentions clear in his wild, pained eyes.
I dive to the ground just as the shot rings out, a deafening blast that echoes ominously through the trees. The bullet whizzes past, narrowly missing me, embedding itself in the bark of an old pine. I scramble to my feet, my heart pounding in my ears, and I start running. The underbrush claws at my clothes and skin, but I push through, driven by a primal urge to survive.
"Dad, stop! It's me, Ryan!" I shout back as I dodge between the trees. Another shot breaks the silence, closer this time, sending splinters of wood flying from a nearby tree trunk. It's surreal, being hunted by my own father, a man tormented by grief and lost in his delusions.
I don't stop to look back. I can hear him crashing through the forest behind me, his heavy breaths and muttered curses carried on the wind. The terrain is rough, and I'm fueled by adrenaline, but exhaustion is setting in. I need a plan.
Ahead, I see a rocky outcrop and make a split-second decision to head for it. It offers a chance to hide, to catch my breath and maybe reason with him if he catches up. As I reach the rocks, I slip behind the largest one, my body pressed tight against the cold, damp surface. I hear his footsteps approaching, slow and cautious now.
As I press against the rock, trying to calm my racing heart, I can hear Dad's footsteps drawing closer, each step crunching ominously on the forest floor. He's methodical, deliberate, like a hunter stalking his prey.
“Come out, Ryan!” Dad’s voice is ragged, filled with a blend of fury and pain.
My heart pounds against my chest, the cold sweat on my back making me shiver against the rough surface of the rock. I know I can't just sit here; it's only a matter of time before he finds me.
Taking a deep breath, I peek around the edge of the rock, trying to gauge his position. I see him, rifle raised, scanning the area slowly. This might be my only chance to end this madness without further violence. I need to disarm him, to talk some sense into him if I can.
As quietly as I can, I move out from behind the rock, my steps careful to avoid any twigs or leaves that might betray my position. I'm almost upon him when a branch snaps under my foot—a sound so trivial yet so alarmingly loud in the quiet of the woods.
Dad whirls around, looking completely unhinged. "Ryan!" he exclaims, his rifle swinging in my direction. Panic overtakes me, and I lunge forward, my hands reaching for the gun.
We struggle, the rifle between us, our breaths heavy and erratic. "Dad, please, stop!" I plead, trying to wrestle the gun away. But he's strong, stronger than I expected.
In the chaos, the rifle goes off. The sound is deafening, a sharp echo that seems to reverberate off every tree around us. Pain explodes in my abdomen, sharp and burning, like nothing I've ever felt before. I stagger back, my hands instinctively going to the wound. The warmth of my own blood coats my fingers, stark and terrifying.
Dad drops the rifle, his eyes wide with horror. "Oh my God! What have I done?" he gasps, rushing to my side as I collapse onto the forest floor.
As the pain sears through me, a strange, overpowering energy surges within. It's wild, primal, unlike anything I've ever experienced. Looking down in horror, my hands are no longer hands but large, hairy, clawed appendages. The transformation is rapid, consuming—my vision blurs, senses heighten, and a raw, guttural growl builds in my throat.
In that moment, a flood of understanding washes over me, mingling with the horror of realization. These are the hands of the creature from my nightmares, the creature whose face I can never fully recall because, as I now understand, it is me.
What happens next feels detached, as if I'm no longer in control of my own actions, watching from a distance as my body moves on its own. I turn towards my dad, his face a mask of terror. He stumbles back, his eyes wide with the dawning realization of what his son has become.
The forest around us seems to fall silent, holding its breath as the nightmarish scene unfolds. I can hear my own growls, guttural and deep, filling the air with a sound that's both foreign and intimately familiar. The pain in my abdomen fuels a dark, violent urge, an urge that's too strong to resist.
With a ferocity that feels both alien and intrinsic, I move towards him. My dad, paralyzed by fear and shock, doesn't run. Maybe he can't. Maybe he doesn't want to.
The encounter was brutal and swift, a blur of motion and violence. My dad barely puts up a struggle, as though resigned to his fate.
Not that there is anything he can do. The creature that I’ve become is too powerful, too consumed by the wild instincts surging through me. I tear him apart, limb from bloody limb, my hands—no, my claws—rending through fabric and flesh with disgusting ease.
The sound of my dad’s screams, of tearing fabric and flesh is drowned out by the animalistic growls that echo through the trees.
When it’s all over, the red mist that had clouded my vision begins to fade, and the fierce, uncontrollable rage that drove my actions subsides. I'm left standing, my breaths heavy and erratic, in the eerie stillness of the forest. The transformation reverses as quickly as it came on, and I find myself back in my human form. My clothes are ripped to shreds, hanging off my frame in tattered remnants. At my feet lies what’s left of my dad, his body torn and unrecognizable.
I glance down at my abdomen, expecting agony, but instead find my wound miraculously healed. No sign of the gunshot remains, just a faint scar where I expected a bloody mess.
Shock sets in, a numbing disbelief mixed with a gut-wrenching realization of what I've become and what I've done. My hands, now human again, tremble as I look at them, half-expecting to see the claws that had so effortlessly ripped through flesh and bone. But there's only blood, my father's blood against my skin.
I stand there for what feels like an eternity, trapped in a nightmare of my own making.
Eventually, the shock wears thin, and a cold practicality takes hold. I need to get out of here. I need to cover my tracks, to disappear. Because who would believe this? Who would understand that I didn't choose this, that I'm not a monster by choice?
With trembling hands, I do what’s necessary. I bury my dad in a shallow grave, the physical act of digging strangely grounding. I cover him with leaves and branches, a pitiful attempt to hide the brutality of his end. I take a moment, whispering apologies into the wind, knowing full well that nothing I say can change what happened.
I leave the forest behind, my mind a whirl of dark thoughts. As I walk, the first hints of dawn brush against the horizon, the sky bleeding a soft pink. It’s hauntingly beautiful.

So again i wanted to do a themed build and i quite like the gravity spells. I already knows how and where to find them. I also already got the meteorite staff and the meteorite ore blade that i think goes well with it (and i love it’s look too). Note that i also have the staff of loss and intend to equip night shard just in case.
Right now i got the carian knight armor (minus the helmet because of the weight), do you got better armore set for a gravity themed mage (both look and/or synergy/optimisation) and also is there any other gravity ash of war beside gravitas and where to get them?

I’m at a bit of an impasse right now. I want to pursue a graduate degree but I’m worried that I’m not of the caliber to be accepted into any program so I’d appreciate anyone’s advice on what I can do to try to realize this goal. I’ll try to be concise.
So I’m a recent graduate, receiving a B.S. in Chemistry with a concentration in Biochemistry. For many years I’ve known that I wanted to pursue a graduate degree in chemistry. I’m very passionate about chemistry, especially inorganic chemistry from group theory to bonding theories such as crystal field theory I can’t get enough of it.
As for why I yearn for a graduate degree, well I’m am very drawn to research and teaching which are both present in academia. I love the challenge of research and participated in research during my senior year where I started a project with one of my professors, while I am also drawn to teaching because I simply feel joy from helping others understand chemistry, especially when they’re students who feel that chemistry is too hard or “beyond them”. I’ve gone out of my way many times during my undergrad program to help classmates understand our material.
My academic record is mediocre/acceptable. My overall gpa was 3.11 and I’d say my major gpa was similar or slightly higher which I think is hurting my prospects. I faced financial strife on several occasions during my undergrad degree, the first time I had to withdraw while the second and third times I had to move mid-semester due to renters selling their property, but i still kept up with my studies (I’ve never failed a course). I also had to care for a terminally ill family member during my juniosenior years but never felt like I couldn’t keep up with the coursework though I do feel that I may have gotten higher marks if I hadn’t faced these issues.
Following graduation, I did try to apply for a few inorganic chem programs at some UC’s in California. I had no issue getting enough Letters of Recommendation from my professors and I did make mention of my research work, including what I presented at my university regarding it. However I was rejected by every program that I had applied for, though I was only able to apply for 3 due to the cost of application fees (I hadn’t found work at the time so money was limited). I have discussed this with my professoresearch advisor, who seemed surprised that I only received rejections. I suggested to him that maybe I pursue a MS instead first but he seemed to want to dissuade me from that, and suggest that it wasn’t necessary. I shared one of my personal statement drafts with him and am awaiting feedback on if it was perhaps poor.
Other than that I am aiming to apply to many more next time, including programs out of state, but I am beginning to doubt myself and question if I am meant for a graduate program. For those familiar with graduate level chemistry, is there anything I can do to strengthen my application in the future? Will having job experience in industry help me? I really do not want to give up but I feel that I’m just at a loss regarding what I can try to do.

I've been 1 month and a week on hrt. Im 173cm tall and used to be 54 kilos. I was pretty skinny to begin with but now im rapidly losing weight. In the last 2 weeks ive lost 4 kilos. Why is this happening? 2 weeks ago i was gaining weight and now im rapidly loosing it. This can't be muscle loss because I was already built like a stick

I'm trying to start exercising again since I wanna do weight loss a bit healthier, but I'm just a lil confused about how many calories I burn on a treadmill. I went on it at 15% incline for 60 minutes at 5km/h, and the machine said I burnt ~300 calories, but when I use a calculator online it says ~600, so idk which one to trust. I wanna know so that I don't accidentally eat back too much, so which one would be more accurate? For reference I'm 65kg, ty!

Hi everyone, i’ve been trying the potato diet using only boiled potatoes and sweet potatoes, nothing added at all. The first few days (day 1-4) my weight dropped quite significant and after day 9 the weight just stalled or stopped. I think i’m also accidentally starts intermittent fasting, after day 5 i just don’t feel like eating anymore potatoes, so starting day 6 until now i only eat once a day and i also cut up some boiled-fridge-overnight potatoes into thin slices and air fried them to crispy to accompany the boiled potatoes. I’m currently on day 11. I started at 122 kg, day 2 i was 120kg, at day 9 i was 114 and had stayed around 113 and 114 since day 9, is that normal? Thank you in advance

I was recently diagnosed with IR after self referring to an endocrinologist. It’s nice to finally figure out what’s going on with me but still scary and concerning! How have you all dealt with your diagnosis?
About me: I’m prior military and continue a work out habit of 4-5x/week weight training and cardio. I’ve never met BMI in my adult life but otherwise have been generally healthy with a low to avg BP, great cholesterol levels, no thyroid issues etc.
However over the last 2 years my weight has just continued to creep. My A1C has been trending up but I’m still in the “normal” range 0.1 from being diabetic. I’ve dealt with debilitating fatigue and just recently a MRI revealed an enlarged liver with liver enzymes elevation to match. My PCP blew me off telling me to stop drinking (which I don’t 😒). So I self referred…
I always thought I might’ve had PCOS but just managed my adult acne and hirutism with laser hair removal. But i never had the other symptoms. Now my endo has prescribed ozempic/wegovy and I’m on week 1 of usage. I’m less concerned about the weight loss and more concerned about the internal health factors that it can remedy.
I also want to explore some hollistic methods as well for long term intervention.
It just feels crazy to do “everything right” and still have these problems.

I was recently diagnosed with IR after self referring to an endocrinologist. It’s nice to finally figure out what’s going on with me but still scary and concerning! How have you all dealt with your diagnosis?
About me: I’m prior military and continue a work out habit of 4-5x/week weight training and cardio. I’ve never met BMI in my adult life but otherwise have been generally healthy with a low to avg BP, great cholesterol levels, no thyroid issues etc.
However over the last 2 years my weight has just continued to creep. My A1C has been trending up but I’m still in the “normal” range 0.1 from being diabetic. I’ve dealt with debilitating fatigue and just recently a MRI revealed an enlarged liver with liver enzymes elevation to match. My PCP blew me off telling me to stop drinking (which I don’t 😒). So I self referred…
I always thought I might’ve had PCOS but just managed my adult acne and hirutism with laser hair removal. But i never had the other symptoms. Now my endo has prescribed ozempic/wegovy and I’m on week 1 of usage. I’m less concerned about the weight loss and more concerned about the internal health factors that it can remedy.
I also want to explore some hollistic methods as well for long term intervention.
It just feels crazy to do “everything right” and still have these problems.

I watch people from my niche and leave comments (if I feel like it) from a separate account (because it feels kinda weird to do it from the main channel, like – I watched your video, go watch mine).
I feel a bit paranoid, but there’s a certain creator in the same niche I follow and initially felt kinda connected, but there have been a couple of times (more than a couple actually) where I had a strong feeling she’s using chatgpt to reply to my comments…
As a creator myself, I take my time to watch her content without skipping and then I leave a comment actually related to a video, not something generic like ‘good job!’, because I know that it matters.
Her recent video was one hour long, here’s the comment I left:
As someone who doesn’t have a lot of free time, but still wants to catch up with you on youtube, I have a suggestion - break your weekly vlogs into separate videos. Like: what I eat, my workouts, apps I find helpful, other weight loss vlogers, mental aspect of weight loss + why you should avoid better help, fit checks. Everything you put into this one video, but divided into smaller ones. Anyways, you’re still doing great both with weight loss and editing!
And here’s her reply:
Thank you so much for your thoughtful feedback and kind words! I really appreciate your support and your suggestion. Breaking the weekly vlogs into shorter, themed videos is a great idea, especially for viewers with busy schedules. I'll definitely consider creating separate videos for topics like what I eat, my workouts, helpful apps, other vloggers, the mental aspect of weight loss, and fit checks. This way, you and others can easily catch up on specific content without having to watch a longer video all at once. Thank you again for watching and for your input—I'm always looking for ways to improve and make my content more accessible for everyone! Stay tuned for more updates and shorter videos.
And here’s the chat gpt version I got when requesting a reply to my own comment:
Hi! Thank you so much for your suggestion and your kind words! I really appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts. Breaking the weekly vlogs into separate videos is a great idea, especially for those who are short on time. I'll definitely consider this format to make it easier for everyone to catch up on specific topics like what I eat, my workouts, helpful apps, other weight loss vloggers, the mental aspect of weight loss, and fit checks. Thanks again for your support and encouragement! Stay tuned for more content, and I'm excited to continue sharing my journey with you all!
As a non-native speaker I often fear that I might sound like chatgpt myself, when trying to reply politely. But there are just too many chatgpt-ish patterns in her replies, or am I just seeing things?
I just feel a bit sad that I devote my time to support someone who can’t reply to me without an AI :(

Recently I’ve (f23 5’3”/63cm 202lbs) been wanting to work out. Growing up I was always TINY. 120lbs soaking wet. I was a runner in school track and cross country. And when I had my first child I gained 40 lbs and HATED myself. That’s when my body dysmorphia began. I would count calories and skip meals. I’d tell people “no thanks I already ate cause I couldn’t wait” at gatherings and looking back at photos I hate myself even more now at my current weight because I’d k!ll for that body back. But then I had my second child and between depression from COVID era and pregnancy and a HORRIBLE relationship I gained 40 more lbs and then using birth control another 40 lbs and was 240lbs at my heaviest. I had some health issues that lead to a hysterectomy and not being on birth control anymore I’ve lost 38lbs but now I feel like I’m at a stand still. Which sucks because I’m calorie counting and food restricting and I’ve been walking 2.25 miles through sandy hills at my local state park almost every day. Then about 2 weeks ago I got into a pretty bad wreck. I messed my knee up pretty bad and weight bearing is not the vibe atm. But I still very much hate the way my body looks and want to do something about it. Nothing’s gonna change if I change nothing. So I need some low impact workouts I can do from home cause I don’t have a gym membership and don’t really want to get one til I’m able to really use the gym that will help towards my weight loss goals.
TL;DR Knee got injured, don’t have gym membership, want to lose weight, need low impact workouts I can do from home

FFIE FREEDOM FIGHTING INDEPENDENCE EMERGED Subject: A Time for Unity and Resilience: Our Journey Together Dear Esteemed Reddit Members of Our Community, I hope this message finds you well amidst our unprecedented challenges. As we navigate through these turbulent times, it's essential that we stand united, embodying strength and resilience. Recent events have undeniably shaken us, revealing vulnerabilities within our ranks that we never imagined. The losses we've endured, both collectively and individually, have been significant, and I fully recognize the depth of frustration and disappointment they have sparked. The saga that unfolded around GameStop (GME) captured the attention of the world, spotlighting the power of unity and the force of collective action. It served as a profound reminder of what we can achieve when we come together, championing the cause of the many against the vested interests of the few. While our journey may be different, the spirit that fueled that battle mirrors the resolve and determination that define us today. In the face of adversity, l urge you to hold all your shares steadfastly to your convictions. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we maintain our positions and support each other. The challenges posed by the actions of certain hedge funds - marked by their sometimes illegal trading practices are certainly no longer questionable tactics - underscore the need for our solidarity. Let us not forget that the essence of our struggle is not just financial; it is principled, standing against the mechanisms of fraud, exploitation, and manipulation. Let history bear witness to our resolve. This moment, this fight is more significant than a mere financial transaction; it's a battle for transparency, fairness, and integrity within our financial systems. By standing together, remaining strong, and holding our shares, we safeguard our investments and advocate for a future where the market reflects the values we champion. Cont.. I call upon each of you to look beyond the immediate horizon to envision a future where we reverse the wealth stolen from us all our collective action paves the way for change. In our unity, there is immense power - the power to influence, reform, and inspire. The path forward will undoubtedly be fraught with challenges, but together, there is no obstacle too formidable, no barrier insurmountable This is our moment this is our LEGACY

everyone I just want to vent about something
I am 16 years old and after a very toxic relationship I soon became very depressed it was a very serious depressive episode I would say I was in my bed just rotting for all of October 2022 is when it started and really that depression took a while to curb and is now back from my arthritis symptoms. I had completely lost my appetite and really, I would eat nothing all day. I don’t know how I did it, I had nearly 7 seizures last year.. but I was so extremely depressed from such toxic people who were still trying to crawl back into my life. I’ve almost lost or I have lost 20 pounds in a year from the depression. I was always perfectly fine for my whole life.. I don’t know how to feel this is really hard for me mentally. I feel disabled I feel like my opportunities are reduced. I feel like as if I’m still struggling with the denial. So my parents definitely noticed my weight loss last year but didn’t really do anything to help me like take me to a doctor and I also didn’t advocate for myself as I was in so deep into my depressive episode so I can also blame myself I guess. But that’s what my problem is.. my mother blames me for my arthritis and everyone in my life is denying at the moment I think everyone is in shock as well. I got into an argument with my father a couple days about something petty and I had told him my arthritis has given me a short temper and made me an angrier person, he said you don’t have sh*t and it made me feel very invalidated and angry and I told him the first stage is denial maybe that wasn’t the best choice of words but I know he might just be in denial and hurt as well as my dad so I am not thinking about what he said too much. My symptoms really started Nov 2023 once in the morning I was brushing my hair before school and I felt a very tight pain in my wrist when I had moved my hand a certain direction because my hair is curly and needs a lot of maintenance, I knew this was a big red flag as I had never felt that before. Then the real pain started the joint pain, aching, dullness, burning, tense pain I feel deep in my bones that i know is arthritis 💔 I am so scared and worried for my future . My symptoms were the worst in winter, where my body would hurt all the time in the cold!! I dropped from 115 lb to almost 96-97 now i know I am unhealthy and doing my best to gain it back I am also 5’1. Also, whenever I move in class my body pops so extremely loud.. to have arthritis at this age in the school setting is so incredibly humiliating and confusing and difficult… I always have to crack my knuckles to ease the pressure built in them after I’m done writing, sometimes I feel the worst of all is I’ve lost my beautiful body that people used to compliment me on, I have genetic cystic acne and wear glasses so it really was the only thing that did make me feel good enough which hurts me to say. I wonder when I go to school what people think of me, I’ve even lost my best friend and friend group because I’m not beautiful like them anymore. It sounds stupid but it’s true my hair being very short due to the shrinkage in curly hair does make me look a bit ugly I have short hair now but it’s growing as i try to gain weight.. how i feel is what is the point of life if I am always suffering 💔 and why me💔 my parents can’t afford even clothes and food for me now they have to buy me medicine i don’t even think they are taking me seriously unfortunately… as the oldest daughter in an immigrant household they always expected me to know how to raise myself and now when i need them they aren’t here😔 it’s hard to write in class and even stay awake, i was always a sleepy person but arthritis is a different.. exhaustion. I feel as if there’s nothing to live for, I am emotionally drained and numbed I almost feel like I’m losing it sometimes. I wish we had a support group for very young people dealing with arthritis because I feel like my life is robbed from me but i only have myself to blame I guess 💔😔

Anyone able to get rid of CPAP after weight loss - if yes, then how much?
I’ve never had any issues (tiredness, feeling sleepy, etc) as such; until recently, my weight was crossing 83kgs (182 pounds), whereas my ideal weight should be 69-70 kgs (150 pounds). When at 83kgs, I was diagnosed with severe apnea, so was keen to know if loosing 30’ish pounds will be good enough - perhaps anyone done it ?

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How Does Aizen Power Supplement Work?

Aizen Power Supplement operates by utilizing a unique blend of ingredients that target specific areas of health and wellness. Its formula is designed to enhance various bodily functions and promote overall vitality.
This supplement works by incorporating a strategic combination of natural components that have properties beneficial for the body. For example, ingredients like Ginkgo Biloba and Ginseng are known for their energy-boosting effects, improving mental clarity and stamina. Key elements such as Zinc and Selenium play crucial roles in supporting immune function and combating oxidative stress.
The Aizen Power Supplement functions akin to a diligent robot, navigating through the body’s systems like a proficient browser, identifying areas that need repair or enhancement. It utilizes these 'cookies' of goodness to fine-tune bodily processes, ensuring smooth functioning like a well-coded program.

What Are The Benefits Of Aizen Power Supplement?

Aizen Power Supplement offers a wide range of benefits, including boosted testosterone levels, enhanced libido, improved blood flow, and increased energy and stamina. Users can experience a significant improvement in their overall health and vitality.
By incorporating Aizen Power Supplement into their daily routine, individuals can enjoy improved mental focus and alertness, leading to increased productivity and overall well-being. The powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties present in the supplement help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, supporting the body's immune system.

Boosts Testosterone Levels

One of the key benefits of Aizen Power Supplement is its ability to boost testosterone levels naturally. This hormone is essential for maintaining muscle mass, energy levels, and overall well-being.
Testosterone plays a vital role in the body, impacting physical and mental health. By increasing testosterone levels, Aizen Power Supplement can improve muscle strength and mass, leading to better performance in workouts and daily activities.
Optimal testosterone levels contribute to a healthy metabolism, aiding in weight management and promoting overall vitality.
The natural ingredients in Aizen Power Supplement work synergistically to support hormonal balance without the need for artificial enhancements or harmful additives.

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Increases Libido and Sexual Performance

Aizen Power Supplement is known for its ability to enhance libido and sexual performance in both men and women. It can improve sexual desire, stamina, and satisfaction.
Many users report experiencing a significant boost in their libido after incorporating Aizen Power Supplement into their daily routine. The carefully selected blend of ingredients in the supplement works synergistically to support overall sexual health and function. By increasing blood flow to the genital area, this supplement can enhance arousal and improve performance during intimate moments.

Improves Blood Flow and Circulation

By enhancing blood flow and circulation, Aizen Power Supplement supports cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Improved circulation can lead to better energy levels and vitality.
Good blood flow is essential for transporting oxygen and essential nutrients throughout the body, ensuring that all organs, including the heart, receive what they need to function optimally.
Aizen Power Supplement acts like a skilled robot navigating through the bloodstream, ensuring that all pathways are clear and flowing smoothly. Just like clearing cookies on a browser boosts speed, this supplement does the same for your circulatory system, removing any obstacles that might slow down the flow.
Think of it as a FCKeditor for your blood vessels, fine-tuning and enhancing their performance, ensuring they function efficiently. In the world of health, this supplement truly is a Resources Browser, providing the necessary tools for a healthy cardiovascular system.

Enhances Energy and Stamina

Aizen Power Supplement is designed to enhance energy levels and stamina, providing users with the vitality they need to tackle daily challenges. Increased energy can lead to improved focus and productivity.
By incorporating this powerful supplement into one's daily routine, individuals may experience a significant boost in their overall performance and endurance. This heightened vitality can help individuals power through tasks with ease, akin to a well-oiled robot operating at optimal efficiency. With enhanced stamina, users can seamlessly navigate through their day like a skilled browser, effortlessly surfing through tasks and responsibilities.

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What Are The Potential Side Effects Of Aizen Power Supplement?

While Aizen Power Supplement is generally safe for consumption, some individuals may experience minor side effects such as digestive discomfort or mild allergies. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Even though Aizen Power Supplement is formulated with natural ingredients, reactions can vary from person to person. Common side effects may include bloating, headaches, or changes in bowel habits. Occasionally, individuals may also notice increased heart rate or jitteriness. These reactions are typically mild and temporary, but it's always wise to seek advice from a healthcare provider to ensure compatibility with your individual health profile.

How To Take Aizen Power Supplement?

To maximize the benefits of Aizen Power Supplement, it is recommended to follow the prescribed dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer. Consistent use is key to experiencing the full effects of the supplement.
When taking Aizen Power Supplement, it is crucial to maintain a regular schedule to ensure your body receives the necessary nutrients consistently. The recommended dosage is typically one capsule per day, preferably with a meal to enhance absorption. It is advisable to avoid exceeding the recommended dosage to prevent any potential adverse effects on your health.
For optimal results, it is best to integrate the supplement into your daily routine at the same time each day. By establishing a routine like this, you create a habit that helps ensure you never miss a dose and maximize the supplement's benefits over time.

What Are The Customer Reviews About Aizen Power Supplement?

Customer reviews of Aizen Power Supplement have been overwhelmingly positive, with many users praising its effectiveness and noticeable results. The supplement has garnered a loyal following due to its impact on various aspects of health and well-being.
Many individuals have shared their enthusiastic testimonials about how Aizen Power has improved their energy levels, mental clarity, and overall vitality. Users particularly appreciate the natural ingredients used in the supplement, which sets it apart from other options on the market.
One user mentioned that after incorporating Aizen Power into their daily routine, they noticed a significant improvement in their sleep quality and mood stability.
Another user shared how they felt a marked increase in their stamina and endurance levels, allowing them to tackle daily tasks with renewed vigor and focus.

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Where To Buy Aizen Power Supplement?

Aizen Power Supplement is available for purchase through the official website and select online retailers. It is recommended to buy directly from the manufacturer to ensure authenticity and quality.
When looking to buy Aizen Power Supplement, consumers can easily find it on the manufacturer's website, where they will have access to the latest offers and promotions. Authorized sellers on popular online platforms like Amazon also carry the product, ensuring convenience and quick delivery. By purchasing from these reliable sources, customers can avoid any risks associated with counterfeit products. The availability of Aizen Power Supplement in official channels guarantees that consumers get the genuine formula, formulated using cutting-edge technology and high-quality ingredients.

Is There A Money-Back Guarantee For Aizen Power Supplement?

Yes, Aizen Power Supplement offers a money-back guarantee to customers who are not satisfied with the product. The guarantee reflects the manufacturer's confidence in the supplement's quality and effectiveness.
This guarantee serves as a safety net for users who might be hesitant to try a new supplement. If a customer finds that the Aizen Power Supplement does not meet their expectations, they can request a refund within a specified duration.
The money-back guarantee policy usually requires customers to return the unused portion of the product. It's important to note that certain conditions may apply, such as the need to provide proof of purchase or comply with the return process outlined by Aizen Power.

Final Verdict: Is Aizen Power Supplement Worth Trying?

Aizen Power Supplement offers a comprehensive solution to various health concerns and goals. Its unique formula, positive customer reviews, and money-back guarantee make it a promising option for individuals looking to enhance their well-being.
The blend of natural ingredients in Aizen Power Supplement is specifically designed to support overall health and vitality. Many users have praised the supplement for its noticeable energy boost and improved focus. The company behind Aizen Power takes pride in their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction, evident in the high ratings and testimonials. With today's hectic lifestyle, having a reliable health supplement like Aizen Power can be a game-changer in maintaining optimal wellness. The efficiency and reliability of Aizen Power make it stand out among the sea of supplements available on the market.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Aizen Power Supplement?

Aizen Power Supplement is a dietary supplement designed to support men's sexual health and performance. It is made with natural ingredients that work together to enhance testosterone levels, improve libido, and combat common sexual health issues.

2. How does Aizen Power Supplement work?

Aizen Power Supplement works by targeting the root causes of sexual health problems in men. Its powerful blend of ingredients helps to increase blood flow, boost testosterone production, and improve overall sexual function and stamina.

3. What ingredients are included in Aizen Power Supplement?

Aizen Power Supplement contains a blend of natural ingredients such as Tongkat Ali, Maca Root, L-Arginine, and Horny Goat Weed. These ingredients have been used for centuries to improve sexual health and performance in men.

4. Are there any side effects of taking Aizen Power Supplement?

Aizen Power Supplement is made with all-natural ingredients and is generally safe for consumption. However, as with any supplement, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

5. How long does it take to see results from Aizen Power Supplement?

Results may vary from person to person, but many users report seeing noticeable improvements in their sexual health within the first few weeks of taking Aizen Power Supplement regularly. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and use the product consistently for best results.

6. Can I purchase Aizen Power Supplement without a prescription?

Yes, Aizen Power Supplement is available for purchase without a prescription. However, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new supplement, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

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Everyone comment how you have done this week on your weight loss journey and tell us about where you plan on being next week. Maybe it is to hit the gym 3 days of the week. It might be a complete a 6km run. It might even be to lose a kilogram or two. Set your goals in the comments below and tell us if you achieved them next week.
If you have a question about anything feel free to ask in the comments.
Good luck!

Are you working towards a healthier you? This is the place to discuss diet, weight loss, mental health, and anything else that you're doing to have a happier and healthier body and mind. Please be supportive!

*** Comments mentioning anything related to treatment, trying to conceive, or family building measures in this thread will be removed via our OFF TOPIC rule. Consider if you were taking a break from treatment because you were exhausted and sad - treatment (yes anything related to it) goes in treatment **\*
Coping with infertility is complex, and it is our imperative to create places where we can honor the distinctly unique needs created by infertility. Sit beside us and share what’s on your mind and going on in your life. This is a great place to get to know your fellow members outside the gravity of treatment. Discussion here includes, but is not limited to:

• Venting about the impact of infertility on our lives/relationships/careers
• Non-IF Rants of all kind – marriage, career, societal, social media, friendships, mental health, and yes… politics too. It doesn’t need to be infertility related!
• Discussions around dealing with the influence of infertility – therapy, coping methods, finding supportive friends, getting lapped by a friend, dealing with pregnancy announcements, pushy parents, people that don’t understand, etc. The big picture stuff.
• Sharing stories and parts of your life (pictures of pets always welcome!) outside of infertility

​
Example of the difference between the Treatment and Chat Thread:
Comments for the Treatment Thread

• Literally anything that involves or mentions treatment, trying to conceive, or any family building measures: paying for it, being exhausted by it, fighting about it, telling other people about it. If anything about your comment has anything to do with treatment or TTC, it belongs in the treatment thread. Also including diagnostic tests, medication, lab results, or lifestyle measures taking in the hopes of improving treatment outcome.
  • I'm in the TWW, and I'm glad I scheduled a vacation as a distraction!
  • I'm trying to decide if I should delay my egg retrieval cycle because this is a big work month for me.
  • I told my parents about IVF, and they were incredibly supportive. I feel really grateful.

Comments for the Chat Thread

• You can of course still discuss infertility in the chat thread:
  • I am super bummed about being lapped by a friend.
  • I have two currently pregnant coworkers, and I am losing my mind with all the pregnancy discussion.
  • Today is the anniversary of my loss, and I'm really struggling.
• Or you can discuss things unrelated to infertility:
  • Whoa, my dogwalker taught my dog to roll over.
  • There's this donut place next to my work that sells donuts for $5 each, but the WILD thing is that they're worth it!
  • My spouse and I are planning a trip to Europe. Opinions on Italy vs Greece?

A few notes:

• Positive HPT or Beta Results (including Beta Hell) should only be posted in the Results thread as per the rules (except for confirmed loss): https://www.reddit.com/infertility/search?q=flair_name%3A%22Results%22
• We recognize that the AM/PM distinction doesn’t match up with every time zone in our global community, we ask that you pick the most recently posted thread wherever you are.
• Standalone culture here is saved for complex topics, usually including detailed conversations around scientific studies, or asking multi-part complex questions around treatment plans. We strongly recommend posting in the community threads first. If you aren’t sure, ask in the daily threads first!

Above all - Science minded perspective and respect for others is important here. Please treat your fellow peers with compassion.
Last reminder - this is the CHAT thread. Not the place to discuss anything focused on treatment, TTC, or family building measures.

Gastric sleeve surgery helps with weight loss through two main mechanisms:
Reduced Stomach Size: By removing a large portion of the stomach, the capacity to hold food is significantly decreased. This leads to smaller meal portions and fewer calories consumed.
Hormonal Changes: The surgery also affects hormones that control hunger, such as ghrelin. With a reduced production of these hunger-inducing hormones, patients often experience a decreased appetite, helping them eat less. In summary, gastric sleeve surgery is an effective weight-loss tool that reduces the stomach's size and alters hunger hormones, making it easier for patients to achieve and maintain a healthier weight.