Supernatural Powers

Struggle and suffering are not exclusive to certain people. No, everyone suffers, but some do more than others. At such times, we all need someone to reassure us of a better tomorrow. Personally, I mostly react to difficult situations with anger and repression of negative feelings, and for a long time, it was slowly turning me mad. Then one day, my brother came telling me that his friend is giving away his kittens, and I think at that point, I really needed a companion: someone that would freshen up my days and ease my stressful mind. Of course, I first thought I adopted a female kitten, because males, to me, were walking disasters if they started to spray, and I told myself that I would never get a male cat. Ironically, the two months old kitten turned to be a male, and I remember wanting to give him back to his owner -- how stupid was I to base a being's life on its sex -- but I actually kept him because when I first saw him, he was all scared and shaking that I thought he'd never allow anyone to touch him. Yet, that moment when he sat on my lap trying to sleep, I knew I was attached to him for a lifetime.

Mana at two months old.

     He came to me when I was all stressed with the fact that we rented a hell-hole, and slowly made his existence a vital part of my everyday life. From that little kitten who slept on the edge of the bed, he became an outgoing, charismatic cat who bites the shit out of people to show his affection. We went through so many ups and downs together, and I was always worried about him, and still am, but he always remains as the best thing that could have happened to me ten months ago. Without him, I would have had no reason to wake up during days of depression, and without him, I wouldn't have become as compassionate. He taught me a great deal of compassion and definitely taught me how to be responsible. Now in our cozy room in our own house, away from that rented hell-hole, I am glad to have seen my boy grow up being happy, occasionally grumpy, and always playful. To him, who finally turned one year old, I wish prosperous years to come with new toys as he inflicts me with an infinite amount of scratches and bite-marks.

    Mana, you are indeed a supernatural power in my life. Happy birthday!

All grown-up and handsome!

The Importance of Reading

The books I've read in July.

Last month marked a tremendous breakthrough to be quite honest, and I'd be lying if I didn't give half the credit to reading. I remember Dr. Keith stressing on the importance of reading, that it almost seemed to me as if it was the ultimate reason behind humanity. I thought: "Sure, reading allows us entrances to many worlds, and without it, we'd remain oblivious," but only now do I believe I see the true reason behind his insistence. Reading heals the soul -- as cliche as that might sound, it holds truth in it. Reading allows us to see into the lives of others, even if fictional, and relate or even sympathize. It gives us a chance to redeem ourselves, and build our character. Reading should be integrated into our lifestyle, not just to be a part of it, but to help shape it.

Near Open Water would provide you with harsh facts about the world we live in.

     That being said, I have never felt better about myself more than I did when I realized that I started reading almost on a daily-basis, and that really impressed me. It meant that I was open to learn more, and enjoy books as I previously did in college. That's exactly why I believe there is no such thing as a mood, because there shouldn't be a mood for reading, or doing whatever you like -- it should simply be a part of your life.

Productivity Mood

We so often claim that we have no time to achieve the goals of our days, or even the dreams of our future. There is always a sense of running out of time. Ironically, most of us that complain of having no time suffer from boredom. Often, we just lie down and spend our days being bored, while in truth, having a million tasks to accomplish. Yet, it seems we have programmed our minds to certain "moods". Meaning that in spite of having the free time to get down to work on our tasks, we just say that we aren't in the mood of such tasks, whether it's meeting a deadline, progressing in your reading-list, or even as simple as sending an email.
     In reality, there is no "mood" to things. Yes, there exists moments in which we feel more inspired to accomplish things, but that still depends on our mindset. Moods can be as misleading as writer's block. Both exist but only if we allow them. A block is simply the lack of ideas, which can be dealt with during a stroll down the neighborhood or your local park. Similarly, a mood is something we created to understand that we sometimes lack the energy to do certain things, which eventually leads to boredom. It's not because we're bored that we aren't in the mood, but rather the opposite -- our lack of mood results in our boredom.
     One needs to overcome the creation of moods to be productive, and that can be achieved, even if it felt like a sort of feat:
     1- Organize your time to allow yourself some breaks to rest.
     2- Fuel your spirit by doing what interests you.
     3- Start today instead of tomorrow.

 It wouldn't be as difficult once you start. Happy productivity!