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Author Archives: Julan62

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About Julan62

I'm now living in Portugal with my husband John and have travelled extensively all over the world writing for children. Working on the children’s page of the Kuwaiti times for about a year. Just before the first Gulf conflict in 1989. And the storyteller's page for the Dumfries and Galloway standard, and the press and journal Banff Standard, plus numerous other papers, and short story books to my credit. I am drafting a few novels and taking things one day at a time... I am almost ready with a fantasy novel, which will be due out in the winter. Published with Opera Omnia Publishers and CDB and Chave Book Publishers. Empath Warrior....

Not a Whisper

16 Jan


We are told:
carry your keys like claws in your fist,
a lioness armed with silver teeth,
a silent shadow ready for war.

Walk fast, head high,
never too much skin at night.
Text when you’re home,
share your location,
don’t take the shortcut.
Don’t smile.

Wear shoes you can run in,
lips you can bite shut.
Swallow the rage like it’s yours to keep—
because it is, they say.

And in the quiet of these rules,
there is no whisper to them:
don’t follow her,
don’t leer at her,
don’t cage her with your words.

They don’t hear,
don’t teach,
don’t change.

We stitch safety into our bones,
lace vigilance through every day,
while they walk free,
bare of burden,
their laughter unchecked.

But the truth is loud:
this world belongs to us too,
not just the corners and cracks
we carve into hiding places.

Teach them what we carry.
Teach them the weight of our keys.
Let them know how it feels—
to walk into a world
that isn’t a warning,
but a welcome.

JH

 
19 Comments

Posted by on January 16, 2025 in Uncategorized

 

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A Sonnet on Our Shared Humanity

14 Jan

Though faces vary, features shift and sway,
Our hues like petals on a flowered hill,
Each soul unique, a spark in life’s ballet,
Yet bound by threads no time nor space can still.

The rivers of our thoughts may course apart,
Through lands of joy, of sorrow, peace, and strife,
Yet all streams share the ocean of the heart,
A tide that sings the symphony of life.

From farthest shores to close and tender ground,
We walk as kin beneath the same vast skies.
Our laughter, tears, in every tongue resound;
One truth persists where all illusion lies.

For we, diverse as stars in heaven’s span,
Are one in this: the miracle of man.

JH

 
7 Comments

Posted by on January 14, 2025 in Uncategorized

 

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Springs Awakening

10 Jan

Beneath the frost, the earth begins to stir,
A whispered promise runs through root and tree.
The snowdrops bow, as robins softly whir,
And streams, once still, rush laughing to be free.

The dawn grows brighter, gilded rays unfold,
To kiss the buds that dream of April’s light.
In every branch, the tender green takes hold,
Dispelling winter’s long and silent night.

The air is sweet with scents of waking blooms,
As violets shyly peek through mossy beds.
The crocus paints the fields in vibrant plumes,
While sunlit breezes warm the river’s threads.

Oh, spring, you rouse the world from slumber deep,
A tender call that stirs the earth to leap.

JH

 
3 Comments

Posted by on January 10, 2025 in Uncategorized

 

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Breaking the Bank: The True Cost of Subscriptions and Hidden Charges

09 Jan

Hi everyone, just another look at something that’s been niggling me… The good old subscription charges…

In today’s digital age, subscriptions have become a staple of our lives. From streaming services and meal delivery kits to cloud storage and fitness apps, nearly every aspect of modern living offers a subscription option. While these services can make life more convenient, they also come with a hidden cost that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late.
I just went through my subscriptions and offloaded a lot of cash I was paying! That’s quite remarkable. ____________________________
The Subscription Creep
It starts innocently enough—a free trial here, a small monthly fee there. Before you know it, your bank statement is littered with charges for services you barely use. This phenomenon, often called “subscription creep,” can lead to hundreds or thousands of annual expenses.
Consider this:
• Streaming Services: A couple of big-name platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Spotify can easily add up to 40–50 euros per month.
• Fitness Apps: Many of us subscribe with the best intentions but rarely use them after the first few months.
• Cloud Storage: Platforms like iCloud, Google Drive, and Dropbox might only charge a few dollars each, but these add up quickly if you subscribe to multiple services.

Hidden Charges and Add-Ons
Beyond subscriptions, hidden fees can silently drain your wallet. Here are some common culprits:

  1. Free Trials That Aren’t Free
    Many services require you to enter your credit card information to access a free trial. If you forget to cancel, you’ll be automatically charged—even if you’ve never used the service again.
  2. Tiered Subscriptions
    Basic plans often come with limited features, encouraging you to upgrade to more expensive tiers.
  3. In-app purchases
    Apps offering premium features or exclusive content can lead to impulsive spending.
  4. Dynamic Pricing
    Some companies quietly increase their subscription rates after an initial promotional period without clear notification. Netflix did this without even telling me! In fact, they all do it.

The True Cost of Convenience
Let’s do the math: If you’re paying 10 euros each for five different services, that’s 50 euros per month or 600 per year. Add a gym membership at 30 per month and cloud storage at 5, and you’re spending over 1,000 euros annually—often on things you might not even use regularly.

How to Take Back Control

  1. Audit Your Subscriptions
    You can review your bank statements or use subscription management apps like Truebill or Subby, etc, to track where your money is going. Also, I use Paypal, which allows payments to be quickly cancelled.
  2. Cancel Unused Services
    If you haven’t used a service in the last month, it’s time to let it go.
  3. Leverage Family Plans
    Many platforms offer family or shared plans that can significantly reduce costs.
  4. Opt for Annual Payments
    If you’re committed to a service, annual subscriptions are often cheaper than monthly ones. I use annual if ever I use something I like.
  5. Be Wary of Free Trials
    Set reminders to cancel trials before they convert into paid subscriptions.

The Bottom Line
Subscriptions can be a fantastic way to enhance your lifestyle, but if not managed carefully, they can also lead to unnecessary and stealthy expenses. By staying vigilant and mindful of your spending, you can avoid falling victim to subscription creep and hidden charges. Take control of your finances today; you might be surprised by how much money you can save.
What are your strategies for managing subscriptions?
Share your tips in the comments below! Would love to hear what you think.

 
2 Comments

Posted by on January 9, 2025 in Research

 

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Understanding Transgender Identity Among Youth: A Call for Respect and Understanding

01 Jan

In recent years, society has witnessed an increase in young people identifying as transgender, meaning their gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. This phenomenon has sparked extensive discussions, with varying opinions on its causes, prevalence, and implications. It is crucial to approach this topic with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to respecting the lived experiences of transgender youth.

Why Some Young People Identify as Transgender

The reasons behind a young person identifying as transgender are complex and multifaceted. Gender identity is influenced by a combination of biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors. For some youth, identifying as transgender is an innate realization of their true selves, while for others, the journey involves exploring and questioning their identity over time.

  1. Biological and Psychological Factors: Research suggests that gender identity is rooted in the brain’s development and may not align with physical anatomy. Some studies point to differences in brain structure and function in transgender individuals, supporting the idea that gender identity is not merely a choice but a deeply ingrained aspect of one’s being.
  2. Social and Cultural Influences: Increased visibility and representation of transgender individuals in media and society have helped normalise discussions about gender diversity. This representation provides a sense of validation and possibility for young people who may feel different but lacked the language or role models to articulate their feelings in the past. We certainly do not need high-profile people bullying such groups because of their lack of knowledge or understanding. Or simply saying, “There are only boys or girls at birth”, or “Trans kids do not exist” is a damaging and uneducated statement. Which is bolstered on ignorance or an uncaring attitude towards the young.
  3. Emotional Well-being: For many young people, identifying as transgender is a crucial step in achieving emotional and mental well-being. Living in alignment with one’s true gender identity can alleviate feelings of dysphoria, depression, and anxiety. I have met many wonderful “trans” students. Who am I to tell them they are not who they feel they are?
  4. Peer and Community Support: Youth are more likely to explore and express their identities in environments where acceptance and support are present. The rise of online communities has given young people spaces to connect with others who share similar experiences. As an author and a visitor to many student places, understanding is essential. I have met many young people who are worried about what others think. I have always had to reassure them that it’s “Ok to be you”. As an author, it’s my duty to be respectful of everyone, not flounce around like it’s my duty to bully anyone.

How Common Is This?

Estimating the prevalence of transgender youth is challenging due to underreporting and varying definitions of gender diversity. However, recent studies suggest that about 1.4% of U.S. teens identify as transgender, with similar patterns observed globally. This number may continue to rise as societal acceptance grows and more young people feel safe to express themselves.

A quote from the 2021 census. UK

  • he census question on gender identity was a voluntary question asked of those aged 16 years and over. The question asked “Is the gender you identify with the same as your sex registered at birth?”.
  • Overall, 45.7 million (94.0% of the population aged 16 years and over) answered the question.
  • In total, 45.4 million (93.5%) answered “Yes” and 262,000 (0.5%) answered “No”.
  • The remaining 2.9 million (6.0%) did not answer the question

It is important to recognise that being transgender is not a trend or phase but a legitimate aspect of human diversity. The increase in visibility reflects greater societal acceptance and understanding rather than an increase in the occurrence of transgender identities.

The Importance of Respect and Support

Respecting the identities of transgender youth is a fundamental aspect of fostering inclusivity and reducing harm. Misunderstanding, discrimination, and lack of acceptance can have devastating effects on a young person’s mental health and overall well-being. Studies show that transgender youth are at a higher risk of experiencing bullying, mental health challenges, and even suicide due to societal stigma.

  1. Affirmation: Using a young person’s chosen name and pronouns significantly improves their mental health and fosters a sense of belonging.
  2. Education: Increasing awareness about gender diversity among families, schools, and communities can create supportive environments where all young people feel valued.
  3. Advocacy: Policies and practices that protect the rights of transgender individuals, such as anti-discrimination laws and access to gender-affirming healthcare, are essential for their well-being.

In the end…

The rising number of young people identifying as transgender reflects a broader societal shift toward understanding and accepting gender diversity. While the reasons for this are complex, the solution is simple: respect and support. By fostering empathy and creating inclusive environments, society can empower transgender youth to thrive and live authentically. Respecting their identities is not only a matter of kindness but also a recognition of their fundamental human rights. So think before you talk or type!

JH

 
5 Comments

Posted by on January 1, 2025 in Uncategorized

 

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The Folly of the Fancy Fools

27 Dec

Oh, the ones with coffers deep and wide,

Whose brains, it seems, took quite a ride.

With yachts and jets, they make their claim,

Yet can’t spell “subtle”—what a shame!

They strut and pose in tailored suits,

Spouting nonsense like wild flutes.

“Let’s rule the world!” they proudly shout,

While maps and logic leave them out.

A golden palace? Build it twice!

A rocket to space? Who checks the price?

But strategy, oh, that’s too much,

They can’t even manage their brunch!

“Tax the poor, for they can pay,

While we sip champagne every day!”

But when they’re asked, “What’s GDP?”

They say, “Is that on the wine menu, see?”

They host big summits, grand and loud,

Ideas are as thin as the clouds they’ve ploughed.

Their speeches? Gibberish dressed in flair,

Like selling sand to a desert’s despair.

Yet somehow, they find their crowd,

Other fools who cheer so proud.

Together they scheme, these clueless kings,

Dreaming up wealth-drenched, dumb things.

But fret not, friends, for fate is sly,

Even the richest fool can’t buy the sky.

Their castles crumble, their plans go poof,

For wisdom’s the diamond, and they’re aloof.

So here’s to the smart, the humble, the wise,

Who see through the glitter and golden lies.

For ruling the world takes more than cash—

It takes a brain, not just a stash!

JH

 
7 Comments

Posted by on December 27, 2024 in Uncategorized

 

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The Illusion of Ownership: Why Borders and Land Ownership Are Misguided Constructs

27 Dec

Humankind’s relationship with the Earth is often framed through the lens of ownership. We parcel out the land, erect borders, and declare sovereignty, all while ignoring a fundamental truth: the Earth does not belong to us. Our obsession with possession, marked by the division of the planet into nations and properties, is both a reflection of the human ego and a failure to recognise the transience of our existence. In the universe’s grand scheme, this notion of ownership is as inconsequential as two fleas arguing over which dog they inhabit. Leaders who want land from another country are delusional, at the very least! By understanding the futility of land ownership and borders, we can begin to reimagine a world rooted in unity, cooperation, and respect for the planet.

The Earth: A Shared Home Beyond Ownership

The Earth existed long before humans walked upon it and will persist long after we are gone. Mountains, oceans, and forests are not commodities to be claimed; they are elements of a shared habitat that supports countless forms of life. To claim ownership over land is to deny the interconnectedness of existence, reducing the vast, dynamic planet into a mere asset.

Ownership implies permanence, yet our time on Earth is fleeting. When we die, the land remains, unburdened by the artificial boundaries we imposed upon it. This impermanence highlights the futility of treating land as something to be conquered or hoarded. Just as no single wave can claim the ocean, no human or nation can truly claim the Earth.

The Arbitrary Nature of Borders

Borders, the human-made lines dividing the Earth, are arbitrary constructs born of historical conflicts and power struggles. They are illusions that create the false idea of separation between people who share the same fundamental needs and desires. The natural world does not recognize these boundaries; rivers flow across nations, winds carry seeds across continents, and animals migrate freely.

These invisible lines often fuel division rather than unity. Wars are waged over land disputes, and countless lives are lost in the name of protecting or expanding borders. Yet, when viewed from space, the Earth is a seamless, borderless sphere—a reminder that the distinctions we fight over are self-imposed and ultimately meaningless.

A New Perspective: Stewardship Over Ownership

Instead of viewing the Earth as something to own, we should embrace the role of stewards. Stewardship emphasizes care and responsibility rather than possession. As stewards, we recognize that the planet is not ours to exploit but rather a shared resource to protect for future generations.

This shift in perspective would encourage cooperation over competition. Imagine a world where nations work together to address global challenges such as climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss, rather than vying for dominance over resources. By prioritizing the health of the planet over territorial claims, humanity could ensure its survival and foster a more equitable society.

Lessons from Nature

Nature offers countless examples of coexistence and mutual benefit. Ecosystems thrive through balance and interdependence, not domination or division. A forest, for instance, is a complex network where trees share resources and communicate through fungal networks in the soil. No single tree claims ownership over the forest; instead, they coexist, ensuring the survival of the entire system. Clever eh?

Humanity could learn much from this model. By abandoning the notion of ownership and borders, we can create systems that prioritize harmony and collective well-being over individual gain.

The Fleas on the Dog: A Humbling Analogy

The analogy of two fleas fighting over which dog they inhabit perfectly encapsulates the absurdity of land ownership and borders. Like fleas, humans are but temporary inhabitants of a much larger entity. Our squabbles over land are inconsequential in the face of the Earth’s immense scale and longevity.

This analogy serves as a humbling reminder of our place in the universe. Instead of fixating on ownership, we should focus on coexistence, recognizing that we are part of a greater whole.

A Call for Unity and Reverence

The idea that the Earth belongs to humans is a construct that serves to divide rather than unite. By clinging to borders and the illusion of ownership, we lose sight of the interconnectedness of all life and our shared responsibility to protect the planet. Don’t get me started on the Big companies ruining the world for profit...It should be time to move beyond these outdated notions and embrace a vision of stewardship, cooperation, and reverence for the Earth. Only then can humanity transcend its petty disputes and take its rightful place as a harmonious part of the natural world.

JH

Greed and profit, profit and greed…. tut tut grow up!

Art work by Julan

 
11 Comments

Posted by on December 27, 2024 in Ranting

 

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Seasons Greetings

22 Dec

Beneath the gentle glow of winter’s light,
The world breathes softly in December’s hush,
As stars adorn the velvet cloak of night,
And snow descends in whispers, soft and lush.

The hearth burns bright with flames of love and cheer,
While carols weave their warmth through frosted air;
Each heart holds hope that banishes the fear,
And dreams of joy and peace beyond compare.

Oh, Christmas season, cradle us with grace,
Unite all souls beneath your tranquil gaze.
Let kindness bloom in every time and place,
And pave the path to brighter, gentler days.

May love endure beyond the season’s glow,
A guiding star through all we’ll ever know.

JH

Artwork by Julan.

 
1 Comment

Posted by on December 22, 2024 in Uncategorized

 

Cycle of the victim

14 Nov

In the shadowed world, a wound takes root,
A scar from fires we once could not dispute.
They say to suffer is to learn and rise,
But some see vengeance where compassion dies.

Once hurt, once torn, the memories stay,
In haunted nights and bitter day.
With every crack and every scar,
A thirst to right what seems too far.

They say, “We’ve been hurt, we understand,”
But with iron fingers and closed fists land
On foreign soil, with thunder’s might,
To end the pain with a darker night.

Through shattered cities and grieving cries,
They claim their innocence with hollow lies.
The victim turned avenger speaks,
Yet peace and mercy sound too weak.

For how can you heal what you will not see,
Or forgive when vengeance claims victory?
To see the pain in another’s eyes,
Is to break the chain of endless lies.

So lay down the hate and close the scars,
For peace, like dawn, is never far.
If hands once hurt can learn to heal,
Then wounds like theirs can finally feel.

A new light rises when one heart forgives,
And in that choice, true freedom lives.

JH

 
4 Comments

Posted by on November 14, 2024 in Uncategorized

 

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The Beauty of Simplicity

09 Nov

In quiet grace, simplicity reveals A beauty far beyond what gold can buy. No gilded frame or polished gem conceals The truth that simple joys will never die.
A meadow’s bloom beneath the morning light, A soft embrace, a whispered, earnest word, These treasures, subtle, pure, and ever bright, Hold more than silken robes or crowns conferred.
Complexity may dazzle and allure with intricate designs that shift and gleam, yet hearts grow weary, strained, and insecure, longing for peace and a gently flowing stream.
Simplicity, the essence of the soul, Brings harmony and makes the spirit whole.

JH

 
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Posted by on November 9, 2024 in Uncategorized

 

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