RSS

Category Archives: Uncategorized

Not a Whisper

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.

19 Comments

Posted by Julan62 on January 16, 2025 in Uncategorized

Tags: girls, let us be us, safe, women

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.

7 Comments

Posted by Julan62 on January 14, 2025 in Uncategorized

Tags: diverse, humans, love, Poems, poetry

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.

3 Comments

Posted by Julan62 on January 10, 2025 in Uncategorized

Tags: awakening, poetry, spring

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.

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.
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.
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?
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.

Affirmation: Using a young person’s chosen name and pronouns significantly improves their mental health and fosters a sense of belonging.
Education: Increasing awareness about gender diversity among families, schools, and communities can create supportive environments where all young people feel valued.
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!

5 Comments

Posted by Julan62 on January 1, 2025 in Uncategorized

Tags: discrimination, gender, Its Ok to be you, lgbtq, patience, politics, respect, Rowling leave them alone, Trans, trans kids are real, transgender, Young

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!

7 Comments

Posted by Julan62 on December 27, 2024 in Uncategorized

Tags: folly of fools, more money than sense, you cant buy up everything to suite your ego

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.

Artwork by Julan.

1 Comment

Posted by Julan62 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.

4 Comments

Posted by Julan62 on November 14, 2024 in Uncategorized

Tags: Israel stop!, Isreal stop it NOW, Leave Palastine, Peace, stop fighting

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.

Diminishing

06 Nov

I find more and more I am not on screens, I have taken FB et al off my phone and rarely post these days. There is so much unwanted ads and fake news, its harder and harder to sift through the sewer of the social media. As I write things these days Im going old school! no internet and just writing listening to a CD … Just wonderful.

Daily writing prompt

How do you manage screen time for yourself?

View all responses

The Decline of Real Journalism: Why We Can No Longer Trust Our Sources

21 Oct

Been thinking a lot about this subject, what with reading so much garbage on the internet! I really feel we need to switch the internet off for a year or so , let everyone get back to old school basics.

Journalism once hailed as the “fourth estate,” has traditionally served as the cornerstone of an informed society. Its role was to report facts, investigate truths, and hold power to account, ensuring that the public could trust the information they consumed. However, in recent years, we’ve seen a troubling decline in the standards of real journalism, and the effects of this erosion are far-reaching. Today, it has become harder than ever to trust the news, and the implications are deeply concerning. I never read online news anymore!

Clickbait
One of the most significant shifts contributing to the decline of journalism is the rise of clickbait culture. Traditional media outlets ( You know who you are) have faced increasing pressure to compete with online platforms, where sensational headlines and flashy content often garner more attention than in-depth reporting. As a result, some news outlets have resorted to prioritising entertainment value over accuracy.

Instead of rigorous, fact-checked journalism, we are often served articles designed to elicit emotional responses—fear, outrage, or excitement—all in the name of clicks. This sensationalism sacrifices nuance for virality and distorts the public’s understanding of critical issues. In a world where “clicks” translate to advertising dollars, the pursuit of truth has taken a back seat to profits.

Misinformation and Disinformation
While clickbait may seem relatively harmless, it paves the way for a more insidious problem: the spread of misinformation and disinformation. Misinformation refers to false or misleading information spread without malicious intent, while disinformation is deliberately deceptive. Both have become pervasive in today’s media landscape.

From conspiracy theories gaining traction to false narratives shaping political opinions, the lack of reliable journalism makes it difficult for readers to discern what is true and what isn’t. Social media platforms have only exacerbated the issue, providing a breeding ground for unverified stories to spread at lightning speed, further diluting the credibility of real journalism.

The sad Loss of Investigative Reporting
Investigative journalism, the heart of holding powerful institutions accountable, has also suffered. Investigative reporters once had the resources and time to dig deep into stories, exposing corruption, abuse, and injustice. However, investigative reporting is in decline due to budget cuts and the economic collapse of many traditional newsrooms.

When major newsrooms are downsized, fewer resources are available for long-term investigations that often take months or even years. Instead, the focus shifts to producing quick, easily consumable content that requires less time and money to produce. As a result, the watchdog function of journalism—the very thing that protects democracy—is weakened.

Media Consolidation and Bias
Another factor contributing to the decline of journalism is the consolidation of media ownership. A handful of corporations now control much of what we read, watch, and hear, reducing diversity of thought and perspective in the media. This concentration of ownership often leads to a lack of critical reporting on certain topics that may conflict with corporate interests.

In tandem with media consolidation, political polarisation has further undermined trust in journalism. Many news outlets have become aligned with specific ideological viewpoints, catering to their audience’s biases rather than striving for balanced, objective reporting. This bias creates echo chambers where people only consume information that confirms their preconceived beliefs, further eroding the role of journalism as a fair and impartial arbiter of truth. I don’t think we can stop this; it’s like a Tsunami of fake spiralling us forward into a future of “Not news” and “unworthy reading”. We will never know what truth is or is not.

I, for one, and so tired of this…. YOU?

Julan62