Category: Celebration

Eli N, Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

In the past few months, the world has seen much intense news, including protests and civil unrest. This news can often bring us down and create a negative sense that the world is a cold and hostile place. I find that, especially because of this news, there is a need to shift the focus towards the positive, so that we do not forget that there is also much to celebrate in this world. 

We are in a season of holidays and festivities, and it is an important opportunity to search for and celebrate the miracles of life. Can we focus our attention on the wonders that are around us so that they grow and increase?

Discovering wonder and awe during this season is more than just a good, fuzzy feeling, it is an effort that can truly shift the currents of anxiety and worry, and create an uplifting wave of gratitude.

So what kinds of wonder and awe can we celebrate during these times? A couple of topics come to mind:

1. The beauty of nature

No matter how stressful life can be, nature is such an inspiring gift that we all benefit from. Nature offers us an unconditional medicinal experience on a daily basis. The colors of a spectacular sunset, the movement of an ocean wave or the breeze traveling through soft leaves uplifts the human spirit and opens the heart. Try to remember the last time that you were walking through a forest or observing a beautiful flower. How did that make you feel? What were the sensations in your body, or the positive thoughts that arose in those moments? 

Through focusing our attention on the beauty and wonder of nature, we get so many benefits. Our mood and mental health improve, our spiritual and emotional health evolves, and our senses of community and belonging increase. Especially during this holiday season, whether you are in snowy or warm weather, nature offers us the opportunity to decorate it for special events, and that is an extra special aspect of how nature is truly an art canvas that we can celebrate. 

1. The human heart

The interactions between human beings are complex and often messy. However, this is an opportunity to reflect on the gentle and special aspects of human connection. During the holiday months there are great ways in which human beings show care for one another. For example, some organize Christmas charity events for children or open soup kitchens for the homeless. Recall the last time you witnessed a beautiful human moment of strangers sharing kindness, or a moment of a community showing generosity and forgiveness. How did those moments elicit feelings of awe and wonder? The traditions of sharing gifts with one another, showing appreciation for the people in our lives and gathering for meals are great rituals to cherish. 

The holiday season can bring up many intense relational experiences and complex memories. However, if we can choose this season to focus on the beauty, the gifts and the grace of life, we will actually begin to see more of it around us. Choosing to focus our attention in this direction allows us to see beyond the mundane and routine, and open our eyes to the magic of life. 

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Leave your thoughts for Eli N in the comments below. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube to stay up-to-date with Low Entropy news!

Eri Ikezawa (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

Leopards and jaguars are two big cats that are often mistaken for each other due to common features in their appearances, but they are — in fact — two different animals that do not have overlapping territories. Similarly, in a world that computes and emphasizes extrovert qualities over those of the more reticent introverts, people confuse shyness and introversion. 

As I’ve mentioned before in prior Low Entropy blog pieces, I wasn’t always very well-educated on introversion, nor was I particularly fond of my social habits back then either. Susan Cain, author of The Power of Introverts, once defined introverts as people who “prefer quiet, minimally stimulating environments” whilst also explaining that “extroverts need higher levels of stimulation to feel their best.” She further elucidates that stimulation can be defined in different ways — “social stimulations, lights, noise, and so on.” 

Most importantly, I want to highlight where Cain differentiates between introversion and shyness, as she explains that shyness is “the fear of negative judgment,” in contrast to introversion, which is “the preference for less stimulation.” At the core of shyness lies a level of discomfort, while that is not necessarily implied with introversion. She acknowledges that the two “traits do overlap, though psychologists debate to what degree.”

To most people’s complete and utter shock, I am an introvert. This is mostly due to that very misconception that introversion and shyness are synonymous. Although I find it quite displeasing and stress-inducing to be in an environment where the main attendees are people among whom I am not comfortable, I have been told that I have competent social skills (which, to be fair, is nice to hear after years of debilitating social anxiety).

Even though I am relieved that, through years of practice, I have grown to be able to present myself as a social person, I do think it involved a great deal of adaptation and camouflaging for me to be able to do so. 

The ability to distinguish between the two has really helped me navigate as an introvert. It used to confuse me so much why some environments and some people completely overstimulated and overwhelmed me, until I was rendered completely mute in the moment, unable to keep pace with the discussion; I always felt as though I was waiting for a conversational pause that never happened. This feeling of frustration with my inability to maintain the speed of conversation was further compounded by the fact that sometimes I lost interest in the topic altogether. 

I began to loathe the fact that I could never predict when I would become a lively chatterbox, bursting at the seams with my own contributions to the conversation, or a silent, sullen shadow, waiting to stop being overstimulated or apathetic to the conversation. Once the vocabulary entered my lexicon, I retrospectively recognized why I was so embroiled in conversations with certain people who lit my internal hearth into a blaze, while others snuffed it out altogether. 

It all finally made sense, a nonsensical kaleidoscope of experiences, fluttering slowly into place, now a perfect puzzle. 

Just as healing is not linear, neither is self-discovery. Despite the fact I felt like certain aspects of my personality and experiences were clarified — laser vision correction for my soul — it didn’t mean I suddenly had it all figured out. Up until even a few years ago, I still overextended myself to try and fit into social stratospheres that I wasn’t equipped to traverse.

Now I realize that there are places where I may be willing to adapt and stretch myself a little thinner — for example, in professional settings. If it could reward me with greater opportunities and skills, I could compromise and justify a little bit of discomfort and overstimulation for something worthwhile. But, on the other hand, I now know I am not willing to negotiate boundaries and comfort levels in my personal life. I should be making active choices to surround myself with people who make me happy, inspire me, challenge me, support me — people who gently guide me into becoming better every day. 

I need people to understand and respect that I need space — quiet, silence, peace, solitude — without taking it personally. I need people to give me time to respond, the same way I wait for people to answer my questions. I need people who recognize that small bouts of silence between us is the greatest compliment — a vulnerable display of comfort and contentment. 

It used to feel like maybe this was a lot to ask for, but once I found my people, I realized that if people really want to, they will make an effort to understand you — and, quite frankly, it’s something I need from people, since I make a concerted effort to understand and commiserate with those whom I cherish in return. And it has never once posed a significant or agonizing issue with anyone who has been a true companion to me. 

I do want to emphasize, after everything that I have said, that I do not find being an introvert to be something I am ashamed of — nor do I wish I was extroverted. I found contentment in silence, introspection and independence. I consider the workings of my internal world to be a blessing — a safe haven from everyday environmental stressors. 

Maybe due to the heavy prominence and rewards of extroverted behavior, it may have taken me longer to recognize and identify what being an introvert was. And yes, there were moments where I wished I was gifted with the natural charm and magnetism of my more externally and environmentally inclined counterparts. But once I reframed how I viewed introversion and realized how fortunate I was for my slower, more cerebral approach to responding to external stimuli, I accepted my introversion for what I now view it as: a gift. 

Sometimes, it really can feel like a heavy burden — especially in Western society where people who strive to appear more confident, strident and charismatic, and they are rewarded for this behavior, whereas introverts tend to blend into the shadows and backgrounds. But once you hone your skills and learn how to maneuver yourself, playing to your strengths, you might realize that introversion is one of the best hallmarks of your personality. 

I truly believe understanding and acceptance, which leads to better navigation of your personality and skills, is really how I operate successfully as an introvert in an extrovert’s world.

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My name is Eri Ikezawa and I have an extended minor in psychology and a major in linguistics. I’m still on the path to quelling questions about myself and the direction I want to head in, but in the meantime, I have always wanted to find a way to help others and contribute to a community dedicated to personal development and self-love.

Nasly Roa Noriega (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

Peace, silence, tranquility, calm and watching the rain fall on my window are some of the reasons why I stopped going to parties. Many people consider me boring, but many do not understand that parties are lived in a different way.

I am a simple and very silent person, too much I would say. Sometimes by closing my eyes, breathing deeply and staying silent as long as I want, I feel an ecstasy of happiness that many do not understand, but for me it is everything.

As time goes by, parties have taken a back seat, at least for me. Tastes tend to be different and fun can be found in different ways.

For me, any day is special. Seeing my kids every day is a holiday, having my parents around and going to see them any day of the week is special to me, and wearing a new outfit is happiness.

Moments can be enjoyed any day. We all have our internal celebrations, we just have to know how to enjoy them. Some do it with luxury, food and a large number of guests with parties and drinks, others just enjoy them with the people they love the most, and that makes them happy.

Festivities come from ancient times. They often become traditions, and every tradition is part of the culture of society, so many enjoy them because they evoke different feelings. Nowadays, many businesses take advantage of the festivities to awaken those ancient feelings in their hearts in order to capitalize on them.

Many ask me why I stopped going to parties, and my answer is always the same: my life is a party and I enjoy every day of my existence, I dance with the soft breeze that covers my body, I wave my arms to reach that piece of blue sky, I get drunk on the liquor of the cold morning and splash the ephemeral drops that the rain leaves on the floor. And that’s why I always make every day a party, because we are all different, we all think differently and we all live a unique life. That’s mine.

I have been writing since I was a child and the pleasure of writing began to displace my taste for parties. I love and am fascinated by writing, I spend hours sitting and immersed in letters. I enjoy a good coffee while watching the birds that flutter by my window and I am dazzled by the radiant sun that shines on my face. I like to dance constantly when I do my housework and I love to make special meals any day of the week. This, for me, is a party: to have fun any day, no matter what day of the week I choose to be happy.

Parties were never in the first priority in my life, and I believe that with the passing of time they will remain in another place in the sphere of my life because I enjoy what I do, I enjoy living, I enjoy being with my husband and my children watching a movie, and I enjoy isolating myself from time to time to enjoy my internal festivities and the peace of mind that they generate in me.

We all carry a party inside. There are many who let it out, others just want to keep it in a corner of our souls.

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My name is Nasly Roa Noriega. I am a quiet person and I find peace of mind through silence. Every day of my life is a thanksgiving to God and every awakening is a day of celebration.

Cassandra Di Lalla (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

When I see a social media post advertising an upcoming event or any of my local stores handing out flyers, or even when I hear by word of mouth from others about an event, I’m always intrigued and I always ensure to make a note of it right away. I love going to markets, whether with my mom, my fiancé or both! As a crafter/maker and vendor myself, I try to support local and small businesses as often as I can, because I truly understand what it’s like to have to compete with big box stores. And while it’s not always possible to do such a thing — taking into account someone’s budget, preferences, what they’re looking for or what they need in that moment — you can still support local businesses by following their social media channels and sharing their information with others.

I am the kind of person who not only enjoys, but very much appreciates handmade items, cultural experiences, learning new things and just walking around freely to check things out for myself. All four of those things are done with one thing in common, and that’s LOVE. That handmade scarf you picked up? Every fibre of fabric and every stitch was done with love. The different cultural experiences you had through food, traditions, music or any other medium were filled with love and pride. Learning new things? The person taking the time to teach you felt inspired by your interest and took it upon themselves to willingly share their knowledge with you. Oh, and walking around freely and at your pace means you’re also taking the time to show love and care to your surroundings or simply giving yourself love by doing the things you enjoy most. Do you know what I love about love? Love is known and shown globally, no matter the language, and no matter the age — love is truly universal. Love embodies kindness, care, compassion, patience and so much more.

Community pride is forward thinking; it means giving a helping hand whenever possible and coming together as one to maintain that small, cozy feeling along community members. Community pride means working together, because the end goal is the same. These local markets, festivals and events always seem to put people in a great mood, or at least the atmosphere usually feels very lively. Why? Because there’s music, there’s food, there are different personalities and characteristics among the crowds — there’s just so much variety all around.

Do you know what else? Networking, employment or volunteer opportunities, new business announcements, prizes, contests, etc . . . There are so many neat things that you can discover by attending these events in your community or a nearby one. There may be a tent set up outside for a specific organization looking for potential employees or volunteers, and what better way to find out more information than to be present and ask questions! By attending these local events, you’ll get VIP access to the grand opening of new businesses in the area too! Many vendors also have giveaways, offer coupons or vouchers to use on your purchases, or hold draws. These events are fun-filled and they’re a great way to take part in community building initiatives!

I also find that with the tighter-knit communities or smaller towns, you feel more at home. I feel this statement holds true because when you attend an event in your community or in the next town over, you’ll notice there are a lot of ma and pa shops in the area, whether it be a restaurant or a retail store, so you’re sure to find a family-owned and operated business at some point along your walk or ride through town. This also means that these small businesses or family owned businesses rely heavily on each other, and the support of locals or even visitors. This goes to show how important and how essential it is to continue supporting local whenever possible.

How refreshing is it to know that people in your town know you on a first name basis, or at least remember you and ask how your day’s been? Kindness goes a long way, and these community initiatives are a very powerful and very impactful movement! 

So, the next time you see or hear of an event taking place nearby, make sure you do what you can to help other community members and the lovely local people who might end up helping you in return one day! It’s a win-win, and you’re making the world just that much greater!

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Cassandra Di Lalla lives life purposefully. She enjoys reading, writing and mental health initiatives. She’s an animal lover for life and an innovative individual always finding new ways to create.

S.Turi, Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

I have a confession to make. 

New Year 2020/21 was one of my most memorable New Years and Christmases, but not for traditional reasons. 

COVID-19 was devastating communities, many people had succumbed to it, restrictions were in full force and locally, an indefinite curfew had been imposed. The festive season was looking to be a historic one for its bleakness, isolation and fear of the unknown. Every public sniff and cough behind a mask was eyed with suspicion. Families were separated by distance and illness. There were so many rules and regulations to follow that, three years on, I can barely remember them all. 

But New Year’s Eve 2020 was one of the best I have ever had. 

For once, the pressure to be doing something to ring in the New Year better than watching Anderson Cooper at Times Square was absent. My family and I relaxed and watched a movie. Like everyone else, we couldn’t go anywhere, even if we’d wanted to. There was no hype, anti-climatic feelings or regrets for not organizing something for the occasion in comparison to others. 

Celebrating the new year has always felt empty to me. Unlike Chinese New Year and Christmas, there is no backstory to give meaning. It’s just a number celebration and once the countdown is completed it ends in a fizzle of cliched well-wishing. Will I fulfill my New Year’s resolution? No. Will this year be happier than the last one? Like economic predictions — it’s a gamble. 

Ringing in the new year has always felt more like a practical celebration than a festive one. How long will it take to get in the habit of signing the correct date on my cheques? Maybe a week or so. When should the needleless Christmas tree be discarded? After day 12. When do school and winter sports start? Around day eight or nine of January.

In analyzing the value of Western New Year celebrations, I like to use the celebration of the Chinese New Year as a comparison to understand why ours feels so empty. 

Chinese New Year 

The first day of Chinese New Year begins on the new moon that appears between January 21 and February 20, celebrating the end of winter and the start of spring. Already, celebrating our connection to nature is an optimistic way to start the new year and gives a space for reflection far from the stress of Christmas activities. 

The Chinese New Year is associated with several myths and customs. The evening preceding the first day of Chinese New Year is frequently an occasion for families to gather and indulge in the annual reunion dinner. It is also tradition to thoroughly clean houses and dust away bad luck to make way for the good. The decoration of windows and doors with red paper-cuts and couplets reflect popular themes such as good fortune, happiness, wealth and longevity. Other activities include lighting firecrackers and giving money in red envelopes. 

Though Chinese New Year is steeped in family customs and superstition, it has substance in its stimulation of creativity and forward-lookingness. In other words, it gets people to generate positive energy, instead of nursing a hangover or wallowing in feelings of loneliness. Getting over the winter hump of January can be especially hard on those living in northern climates, and finding ways to cheer oneself up is called coping. 

During the COVID lockdown, especially during the curfew, when gatherings were forbidden and masks were ruthlessly mandated, citizens were obligated to improvise, make the most of their home life and break the same old holiday routine. Personally, in between cooking and baking, I relaxed and remembered to water my plants, when in the past I would have been focused on what I should be doing. Online resources like therapy and social chat rooms were more widely available at this time to compensate for the pandemic, which created a feeling of togetherness, despite its transitory passage. I have positive memories of interrupting my evening doldrums to join a chat group to discuss Low Entopy’s family gatherings at this time. 

The Importance of Personalizing a Celebration. 

Even if one is not Chinese, finding value in another culture’s approach to celebrating can help in relieving the pressure of the holidays. Doing things differently on occasions instead of repeating the conventional has always been effective for me in breaking out of the blues. Some of my approaches to the festive season have been successful, others not. Attempts in the past to go on meditation retreats to escape festive season stress have worked, but have left me feeling like I’m running away from something instead of facing it. 

Ultimately, I’ve found that, beyond the practical, celebrating the new year is less about partying and more about taking yearly spiritual inventory. If that requires spring-cleaning my home on the 31st of December or sleeping through it to take stock of my life another day, then I’ll allow myself this space. 

But there is also a certain comfort in knowing that with all social customary celebrations, this too shall pass.*

References: 

*https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/This_too_shall_pass 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reunion_dinner 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_New_Year

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I am an illustrator, writer and fine artist living in Quebec with an appreciation for nature, poetry, history and philosophy, though my interests are so varied that they cannot really be summarized in a nutshell. I enjoy writing poetry, short stories, painting, daydreaming and truth-seeking, amongst many other activities.

Cristina Crescenzo (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

I have always been interested in the idea of celebrities and why human beings can spend so much of their time obsessing over them, their work and their personal lives. It’s even more fascinating when you take a moment and realize they are human beings just like us, doing their work and living day to day; the only exception is that their fame has afforded them more privileges. Since I would classify myself as a fan of certain people, I can get to extreme levels of star-struck, especially over people like Taylor Swift, Demi Lovato and Leonardo DiCaprio. However, like most things in life, there are good aspects to admiring someone and also bad ones. For example, with the gloss of stardom, we can often forget about a celebrity’s humanity and judge them more harshly than we ever would ourselves.

There have been many times when celebrities I like have made a mistake or done something I don’t agree with, and it feels like a dear friend has betrayed me, which in retrospect seems odd because I don’t actually know them personally. Furthermore, there are many celebrities I am not a fan of and I have even gone so far as to say I hate them, but I don’t know why? I could say it is how they portray themselves in the public eye, but who knows if that’s how they act behind closed doors. I am trying to say that most of the things we hear about famous people is hearsay from the tabloids, and I find it hard to believe some of the stuff I’ve read is well-researched and quality journalism. We also see photos on social media and through paparazzi lenses. Those pictures can be altered and manipulated to suit the narrative the media thinks will receive more attention, so nothing can be trusted. That is why I try to pay attention only to the words that come directly from the source: the celebrity. I don’t want to feed into something that doesn’t come straight from the individual’s mouth, so I take news from outlets like TMZ with a grain of salt.

In addition, in 2023, more and more famous people are under scrutiny due to social media. In the age of technology, we have allowed ourselves to be nastier online to others because we know there will be no significant consequences. Just because a person has money and status doesn’t mean that they don’t have problems and all the same feelings we do, and to assume otherwise is ignorant. I also know that loss of anonymity is something these individuals sign up for when they take this path in life, but that shouldn’t forfeit their right to our decency, because having all eyes on you can still be incredibly lonely if you think about it, since you can’t feel free to be yourself without the entire world having an opinion on you.

Thus, you may ask, “Why are you a fan?” The best answer to this question is that I connect with them on some level, through their work and what they put out into the world. The best example I could give is someone who is no longer alive, Marilyn Monroe. Her legacy is so powerful that it has transcended decades. We are still so invested in who she was and her story. There is probably a new film made about her every year. I first fell in love with her through her movies, but then I started researching her life and became enamored by Norma Jeane, the girl before Marilyn. Yes, we had very different life experiences, but I still feel a deep kinship with her and an immense appreciation of who she was and what she wanted to be. Granted, I won’t ever get to hear her true feelings, but I took the time to try and truly understand her, even if I never will. Connecting with someone’s humanity is a beautiful thing, and we should do that with everyone and forget about celebrity and fame.

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My name is Cristina Crescenzo and I am an aspiring writer with something to say as I try to figure things out. More than anything, I want to be able to connect with people through my writing, and I want to be a constant advocate of disability and mental health awareness.

Alfie Lawson (he/him/his), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

 

Well, it’s the end of the year. We’re into December and it feels like everyone’s gearing up for the holidays. This is a time of celebration for many, but this also marks a period of reflection for a lot of us. I often find myself looking back over the past year and thinking, “What was significant about it?”

Ultimately, however, these thoughts get lost amongst the holiday cheer. But still, I believe that stopping to take stock of life once in a while can be beneficial.

The other time that I’m met face-to-face with this is when it comes to birthdays. These randomly allocated events are another indication of the passing of time, and are perhaps more personal than the end of a calendar year. We’ll all enter 2024 together, but the days we add a year to our ages differs from most of our friends and family.

Still, with over 17 million people celebrating their birthdays every single day, what is it that actually makes them meaningful?

What does a birthday symbolise?   

To interpret it quite literally, birthdays represent the anniversary of when we were born. These are events that none of us actually remember — we’re simply told, usually by our parents, that these are the days our ages increase by one. At its most basic, it can seem rather meaningless. Just a formality.

And yet, to some extent, we do tend to care about our birthdays. As they only come around once a year, they serve as a break from the norm. They provide a reason for us to celebrate and gather with loved ones, as well as to receive cards, presents and well wishes. For these reasons, birthdays are a symbolic opportunity for others to appreciate you for being in their lives, and a chance for you to show gratitude in return.

Why show appreciation?

No matter who you are, your birthday is an important date that others will want to mark. 

The reasons for this are pretty simple. Namely, people want to show each other love and understanding. Since birthdays are a universal thing that we all have, they are a chance to make others happy and boost self-confidence. When it’s our turn, we hope that people do the same for us, as birthdays are a way to mark milestones, create memories and celebrate together. Considering how isolated our day-to-day lives can feel sometimes, showing appreciation for people in this way can be significant.

Why should it be special to you?   

I have absolutely no recollection of my birth. In fact, I have almost no memory of the four or five years after my birth. But, for as long as I can remember, I have always known my birthday, and understood that it is something noteworthy. 

Of course, this is in large part down to our connections with others. Nevertheless, there is something on a personal level too. For me, appreciating my birthday is also rooted in a form of nostalgia. 

My memories from childhood are hazy, but I remember my birthdays in some form. As I’ve gotten older, significant life moments have coincided with them. Going from child to teenager, learning to drive, being able to buy alcohol and becoming a full-fledged adult are all determined by your day of birth. This engrains a unique value to it, a reason to remember the good times and attempt to create more.

What our birthdays teach us

Getting another year older can be daunting. Setting life goals to coincide with us turning a certain age, like marrying before we’re 40, is rather common. Anxiety about “maturing” as we age can also instill a negative mindset. Even comparing birthday parties to those of your peers makes it all more stressful and complicated than it needs to be.

Thus, it’s vital not to overlook what else your birthday can represent. Celebrating, however you choose to do so, can be rewarding for you and the people in your life. Additionally, it’s an opportunity for self-care. Treat yourself to something you’d like, for instance, or simply use the time to reflect on the year and make it personal to you. 

Above all, your birthday is about what makes you, you. So, do something positive with it, whether that’s big or small, and see what the result is.

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Leave your thoughts for Alfie in the comments below. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube to stay up-to-date with Low Entropy news!

 

Deema Khalil (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

Growing up, I believed success was all about reaching those “big” milestones. I daydreamed about acing my high school exams, pursuing my dream major and ultimately graduating from university. Having my dream job and advancing my career were next on the list. It seemed like everyone around me was on the same track, so I naturally tagged along. However, once I started achieving those goals, the happiness I felt in return for my efforts was too short-lived.

Graduation day? Felt great at the moment, especially seeing how proud my family, relatives and friends were of me. But before I knew it, I was back to my daily routine, doing ordinary tasks and working towards something new. That got me thinking about how many of those milestones I set for myself were socially rewarded, but they didn’t say much about my character. In between these celebrated moments, in the quiet passing of days, months and years, was where the real work was happening. That was when I was growing and developing, even if no one else noticed.

I then started wondering about the relationship between social rewards and personal fulfillment. Do they relate at all? Sure, on the surface, they might give you a boost. For example, receiving positive feedback for having a degree or a well-perceived job for example could positively impact your self-esteem and, in turn, add to your overall happiness. But those milestones, in the grand scheme, only tell the world what you’ve done, and not who you are.

So, who are you?

Here’s the way I see it: the majority of our lives are spent walking through our daily routines, checking tasks off of a to-do list, practicing our hobbies, cleaning our homes, etc . . . Those small collections of events ultimately create the foundation of our lives. And they are the reason why we’re able to progress and not stay stagnant. This is where our personalities, habits and attitudes develop. Those moments are where we’re able to create a healthy momentum. And during those moments, we’re left facing our natural-state self, inhabiting our minds and bodies, where the only feedback we’re able to receive is our own. In essence, our daily personal habits and actions comprise who we really are. How wonderful and equally scary is that?

Coming to this realization made me see how true fulfillment can’t be reached by relying on big achievements and the kudos of others, but from an authentic appreciation and recognition that originates from within.

Here are some aspects of my life in which I now see great value and how I reward myself for accomplishing them:

Checking items off a to-do list:

Making a to-do list is important for me. It keeps me on track and helps me to stay organized. But there are often some high-priority tasks that require more effort, and it’s easier to set them aside for later. However, this “later” could turn into weeks and months. I used to struggle with this and get demotivated. I knew that I had to find a way to hold myself accountable while also enjoying the process and not resenting my to-do lists. So I created an action/reward model. Every time I write my to-do list, I highlight my three top-priority tasks. I then add an item I love to my online shopping bag, but only allow myself to checkout once my priority tasks are completed. This motivates me to work through important tasks a lot faster, and I feel more motivated knowing that I’d be rewarded in the end.

Stepping outside of my comfort zone:

It can feel uncomfortable to break old habits, to challenge previous thoughts and to put yourself out there without fearing negative outcomes. But staying in your comfort zone can hinder you from doing a variety of things, such as making new friendships, speaking a new language, accepting a new opportunity, etc . . . I have definitely struggled with this, and it’s an ongoing journey with lots of ups and downs. So recently, I started making sure to acknowledge and reflect on the actions I take to step outside of my comfort zone. Every time I take a risk, no matter how small, I add a star sticker on my monthly journal with a little note next to it, expressing what I did and how proud I am of myself for doing it. Looking back at my journal throughout the months and seeing the stars and notes serves as a reminder of the progress I’m making towards becoming a more confident version of myself.

Completing a self-improvement task:

Self-improvement for me can take on a variety of forms. Some of the things I do to work on improving myself include reading a book, completing a drawing, organizing a set of belongings, learning and applying a new skill, etc . . . However, it’s not always easy to complete a self-improvement task from start to finish. Take reading a book, for example: with the many online distractions readily available for us, it can be difficult to resist them and to reach for that great book you bought. I know I’ve been there. For this category, I chose to reward myself with a treat to a nice meal from a restaurant. I’m someone who feels guilty for eating out and sees it as an unnecessary expense, so I often stick to home-cooked meals. However, it feels both motivating and comforting when I eat out, knowing that it’s something I earned for completing a task that contributes to my growth or furthers my knowledge.

These are some of the methods I use to reward myself. Feel free to use some of my methods if any of them resonate with you. I also encourage you to customize your own rewards, taking into consideration the things you like and enjoy doing. And I highly recommend keeping a personal accomplishments journal to reflect on the work you do in your day-to-day life. Your actions may seem insignificant at the moment, but you are achieving so much more than you may think! Keep going. Keep growing. And don’t forget to reward yourself along the way!

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Deema Katrina is a blogger from Montreal, Canada. She comes from a science background and currently works in the drug development industry, but her interests go beyond that. Some of the topics she passionately explores are self-awareness, personal development and financial literacy. She believes that every person has the capacity to succeed when given the right tools and resources. Her goal is to share the knowledge she learned from delving into these topics and help others become better versions of themselves.

 

Cassandra Di Lalla (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

Is it even a party without food? I feel strongly about having food at a party . . . no matter what kind of party it is, there’s something about food that brings people together, whether it’s more of a snack food or appetizer, or a full sit-down meal. I don’t think I’ve ever gone to a party or a gathering of some sort where food wasn’t involved.

Like, who doesn’t like food? Honestly.

Here you are sitting down on a cozy chaise lounge and you get hit with this tantalizing aroma! Is it the meats and cheeses from a charcuterie board? Is it the perfectly soft and fluffy focaccia bread? Is it maple walnut salmon? Or maybe it’s just your typical “party foods” like brownies or cookies, chips and dip, popcorn, pizza & wings, etc . . . Ever heard of people “cooking up a storm”? Well, let me tell you something — I don’t mind being caught in the middle of that storm, as I’m sure many other people can agree.

Can you imagine inviting your friends and/or family over for a get-together and not having food? Oh, the absolute horror! Look, people get hungry and people get angry. They get hangry. It’s also weird though, don’t you think? Like, hosting a party but there’s no food in sight and then you sort of tell them, “Oh yes, we have a glorious selection of beverages ranging from wine and spirits, to tea and coffee, to juice and pop, or water.” I mean, cool . . . but what are people supposed to say? “Wow, this OJ really hit the spot!” Or, “Yes, this bottled water is delectable.” Also, drinking alcohol on an empty stomach — no bueno. 

Okay, maybe the party is later in the day and you already had breakfast, lunch, whatever. Or maybe not. Because you were hoping there’d be goodies at the party. HELLO, PIZZA! I mean, it’s one of those foods that are basically staples at any party, regardless of the theme or age group. Pizza’s just so versatile, and the variety is astronomical!

Have you ever gone to a party and said “I’m here to have a discussion with you about your choice of wallpaper”? I don’t think so. It would be more like, “Hey, nice to see you, and thanks for having us” — you chat for a while — then you head straight for the Doritos and the punch bowl. And honestly, nobody’s expecting you to have a fancy catered service, but people are used to having a snack here and there while they’re drinking, or something to snack on after dancing or taking part in karaoke.

Do you think that a party would still be as fun without the food? Think about it for a while, let it sink in. I don’t know why, but food usually makes for a much happier crowd . . . I guess you can say it’s a crowd pleaser, eh? But seriously, it is. People from all walks of life indulge in their favourite dishes, but when you’re at a party I find that you often end up trying new things, especially if it’s a family function or a potluck, where there’s an array of food and each person brings something different to the table, quite literally.

When you’re at a party and you see different snacks or combinations of food, much of the time you wonder what they are, so you either try something, leave it or ask questions to find out what everything is. And just like that, the food becomes a topic of conversation! You may have also made a new friend, and you can thank your curiosity for that. On that note, food is also a great icebreaker! Don’t know what to do or what to say? Talk about the bite of food you just tried and see whether or not you have the same taste buds as the person next to you.

Imagine sitting around in awkward silence waiting for someone to say something worthy of being the highlight of the night? Or you being the one having to say something in order to get your jitters out and break the awful static in the air? Yeah . . . no. What about when you’re trying to kill time until the food arrives and you end up in a very awkward conversation about the flooring in the basement or how you ended up in the coat closet thinking it was the washroom?

All in all, food definitely makes for a fun-filled day and a stomach full of flavours.

P.S. I would love to go to your party. Thanks for the invite, and I’ll catch you on the flip side!

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Cassandra Di Lalla lives life purposefully. She enjoys reading, writing and mental health initiatives. She’s an animal lover for life and an innovative individual always finding new ways to create.

Daniela Silva, Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

Since my childhood, Christmas has always been a festive and magical time for my family. Whenever the date approached, my mother would break the piggy bank we had at home and go Christmas shopping.

Everything in our house was decorated with Christmas themes, from the front door with a beautiful garland to the living room, where there was a Christmas tree full of gifts of the most varied sizes, colors and shapes. On the bedroom door were embroidered socks, with requests for gifts inside each one, not to mention the beautiful tablecloth, printed with Christmas colors and accompanied by the most varied fruits, desserts and other typical foods.

Everything seemed beautiful and festive until my mother fell ill with kidney failure. 

Kidney failure, also known as chronic renal failure or chronic kidney disease, is a medical condition in which the kidneys are unable to perform their blood-filtering functions properly over time. The kidneys play a crucial role in the body, helping to remove waste and excess fluids from the blood, control blood pressure, regulate electrolytes, and produce hormones that affect red blood cell production and bone health.

Kidney failure can develop gradually over years, resulting in progressive damage to the kidneys. Symptoms can vary, but generally include fatigue, swelling in the legs and ankles, difficulty sleeping, lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting, itching, high blood pressure, and an increased frequency of urination. The main causes of chronic kidney failure include hypertension, diabetes, autoimmune kidney diseases, urinary tract diseases, chronic infections and other medical conditions. In my mother’s case, the main cause was hypertension.

The diagnosis came in 2005 as a shock to my mother. It was difficult to receive the news from the doctor that her kidneys were no longer working. From then on, a long journey began. First with surgery to place a catheter, followed by the beginning of training for her and the family to learn how to perform home dialysis.

The beginning of treatment was very difficult. My mother was very nauseous and vomited frequently. However, even though she was weak, my mother was very spirited, a woman with unshakable faith. She believed that, even with the disease, she would live for a long time and would celebrate many Christmases with her family.

As time went by, my mother became increasingly weak and, from time to time, needed to be hospitalized due to an opportunistic illness, such as flu or pneumonia. These were very difficult times for someone who had always been at home with her family and who, due to her illness, now had the hospital as her second home.

Because she was a kidney patient, my mother had certain fixed times for dialysis, so getting out of the house to go for a walk was a bit delicate. Even so, whenever she could, she would go out with my sister and me to the mall, to a restaurant or to a birthday party. My mother was very festive and never missed a celebration, especially Christmas. 

And speaking of Christmas, kidney disease brought some restrictions to Christmas dinner. This is because consuming cola drinks, salt, sugar, and fried foods can have harmful consequences and impact dialysis treatment. 

The secret to a healthy Christmas dinner for patients with chronic kidney disease is balance, and the main concerns should be the amount of protein, potassium, phosphorus, sodium and water that should be ingested.

Because of this, my mother invested in new recipes and healthy alternatives in line with her clinical condition. So our Christmas dinner had a table full of vegetables as well as fruit such as apples, peaches, pears, mangoes and watermelon. The turkey was seasoned with spices to avoid salt, and stuffing made from giblets was avoided as they are high in phosphorus. As a side dish, we had rice, which is well-seasoned and low in salt, and can accompany any meal.

For Christmas in 2015, in particular, I bought my mother a beautiful dress. It was a long, blue dress with colorful prints that really matched her vibrant Christmas cheer. However, that Christmas she wasn’t well. She was very tired from preparing Christmas dinner and a little nauseous due to her condition.

She had already vomited a few times and was unable to eat with the family, asking to be removed from the dining room. 

At midnight, she was dialyzing in her room, and the whole family (my sister, me, my husband and my father) brought glasses of water and toasted Christmas Eve together. She hugged everyone, and with tears in her eyes, she said how much she loved each one of us. We didn’t know it, but this was the last Christmas we would all spend together.

That’s why I stopped partying for Christmas. Because my desire to do so disappeared with my mother’s spirit. And without her spirit, the house isn’t decorated, the Christmas tree is non-existent, Santa Claus doesn’t come near the house, and there are no presents, parties, or food. Her spirit took everything in the moment she closed her eyes. And she never woke up again. 

In memory of Marli Silva (1953-2015).

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Leave your thoughts for Daniela in the comments below. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube to stay up-to-date with Low Entropy news!

 

Glory Li (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer 

 

A week after Christmas, you remember someone whom you hadn’t even noticed, brought you a sweater. Something that you never wear with a warm thank-you card attached at the hem, a tag you never bothered to cut off. It’s stored in the most inconspicuous corner of your closet, a place you haven’t been motivated to rummage through. Congrats, you received a gift of no emotional significance, from someone with whom you don’t have a memorable relationship or personal attachment whatsoever—a gift of reciprocation. Honestly, the Slytherin-green sweater with red, fur-coated collar can’t be an attempt to correct your fashion, enhance the interpersonal relationship between your cousin’s friend’s mum, or support your family with an unnecessarily green addition to your already-cramped collection of model attire. The gift merely trespassed your threshold in exchange for the unintentional act of you providing an old string of Christmas lights to a distant relative. Nevertheless, from the perspective of an outsider, a flamboyant sweater as a gift may seem pretty thoughtful and presentable, but is it purely for celebratory purposes? No. We have reached a societal peak where gift-giving has become a traditional ritual dictated by the reciprocation rule that the general public must follow. 

 

What is the rule of reciprocation? 

In maths, reciprocals are the “flipped versions” of two fractions wherein their multiplication results in both the numerator and the denominator cancelling out to equal one. Reciprocation, in human interaction, is a “flipped exchange” between two people that nullify the initial favour with a subsequent favour so both sides are equal. The primary driving factor behind the exchange is the feeling of indebtedness and obligation for the receiver is beholden to the giver to display a mandatory sign of repaying the favour. Whether or not the giver makes a future request for repayment, the receiver is burdened with a constant subconscious reminder of their indebtedness and they tend to strive hard for possible repayment which situates them in the most vulnerable time of complying with a larger favour than the one they personally received.[1] Applying this concept to the imaginary scenario of the sweater, although a fancy accessory is probably more expensive than an unused coil of light from your basement (costing nothing), the debt is still cleared through an imbalanced exchange and no one will argue any further regarding the cost. 

 

How does the rule of reciprocation work? 

 

Firstly, you have to acknowledge that it is a universal rule applicable to every individual. It isn’t some sort of hyperactive gratitude arousal in some selected sensitive few. With equal likelihood, an obstinate and inconsiderate person will be subjected to an overpowering compliance when an initial favour is first conducted. There are four primary justifications explaining why an initial favour increases the level of indebtedness and therefore a consequent responsibility to reimburse:

1. Alternated mindset for both parties involved in the exchange. Givers experience an instinctual decrease in the inhibition against initiating the transaction, as people nowadays find it easier to start the first favour because they understand that nothing is being lost since there’s an implied anticipation to receive something back sooner or later in their lives. Vice versa, for receivers, the obligation to repay will be prioritized over all other factors that usually determine the decision to repay or not, which suggests even if you dislike or are complete stranger to the giver, you will likely experience an alleviated impression of that person and offer your hand in assistance in their times of need.[2]
2. Social stigma and emphasis on reciprocation. Societies developed a severe distaste and criticism toward people who only receive without giving back. Not only will those people obtain less help in necessary occurrences, but they are also seen as selfish and arrogant individuals and someone to be publicly avoided. They might suffer from a notorious social reputation as a “freeloader,” “sponger,” or a “barnacle,” thus, many people are willing to go to great lengths to prevent a horrible staple image added on top of their names.[3] This explains why most people are aware of this intangible but explicitly evident rule lurking around the world, forcing people to reluctantly agree to subsequent favours much larger than the ones they received. So the fictional distant relative probably realized that the sweater they gave away was more economically valuable than the lightbulbs they received, but they need to pick something “better” to show sufficient appreciation of what they got in advance and their willingness to give back because of a previous receipt. 
3. The obligation to receive. The form of the initial favour usually won’t matter. It could be freebies, free samples, gifts, or voluntary acts of kindness that you must receive even if it is something you are not interested in or need.[4] Receivers find it difficult to reject offers especially if it is only offered to you for it induces a premonition that potential free offers in the future are staunched by an adamant refusal this time. This obligation is apparent in the negative incident of a sales agent pressuring you into buying their ostentatious products after they provide you with some sort of free service. The favour was no longer effective in reciprocation because people could redefine it as a moral kidnapping trick. You will be liberated from the obligatory feeling to receive knowing it wasn’t a genuine attempt to help in the first place but to over-exploit the nature of the rule. 
4. Customization and personalization. Although the form of favour isn’t a big deal to activate the rule, however, the strongest urge of reciprocation is derived from favours that come specifically at the time that you need it. People remember the favour for longer and will be most cooperative and proactive when they require help in return. An interesting study figured out that customers who give the highest rating to hotel attendants are not the ones with a flawless, fantastic experience during their vacation, instead, often when customers encounter an unexpected setback or accident in the process and the service representative’s sophisticated reaction to solve or fix the problem will cause the customers to be satisfied with the ultimate outcome and repay their customized service (favour) by booking their next holiday trip at the same hotel.[5] 

 

Then, after learning the fundamental factors influencing reciprocation, for an annual critical point like Christmas, does that mean every gift that appears beneath your Christmas tree needs to be offered back with something more valuable? Reciprocation simply doesn’t apply to important, long-term relationships such as the ones between your family members and best friends. There are many other reasons worth contemplating that can explain why your parents or close buddies picked that gift for you aside from the nonexistent obligation in your close social circle; your loved ones won’t even care if the equation is balanced or not when it comes to gift-giving. They could have brought it for you because they understand your hobbies and preferences, or it reminds them of the quality time spent together.[6] Whatever the antecedent, the heart of the holiday season shouldn’t be focusing on price tags and running the toxic cycle of selecting gifts. Gift-giving during the holiday season will be much more enjoyable if the process is issued from the authentic desire to make the recipient happy, rather than being stressed out about purchasing specious and budget-friendly gifts to repay the debt. The purpose of gift-giving transcends reciprocity, the actual magic of mutual interchanges lies in the heartfelt intention to compose joy and etch memories that cannot be erased with time. 

 

References

[1]Ochota, Mary-Ann. “Gifts Are a Traditional Part of Christmas – but Why Do We Give Presents at All?” The Guardian, 14 Feb. 2018, www.theguardian.com/science/2017/dec/22/the-gift-social-world-xmas-marcel-mauss.

[2]Cialdini, Robert B. Chapter 1: Levers of Influence. Page. 45-47. Influence, New and Expanded. HarperCollins, 2021.

[3]Hackett, Andrew. “The Law of Reciprocity — How Giving Without Expectation Makes Sense in Business.” Medium, 10 Dec. 2021, medium.com/swlh/the-law-of-reciprocity-how-giving-without- expectation-makes-sense -in-business-b0a64b1b9e68.

[4]Cialdini, Robert B. Chapter 1: Levers of Influence. Page. 62-63. Influence, New and Expanded. HarperCollins, 2021.

[5]Cialdini, Robert B. Chapter 1: Levers of Influence. Page. 59-61. Influence, New and Expanded. HarperCollins, 2021.

[6]Ciambrelli, Ashley. “Gift Giving and Reciprocating: Do You Have to Give One in Return?” Martlet, 27 Dec. 2022, martlet.ca/gift-giving-reciprocating-do-you-have-to-give-in-return.

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Leave your thoughts for Glory in the comments below. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube to stay up-to-date with Low Entropy news!

 

Roma Jani (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

In a world where social events and parties are omnipresent, where extroversion is celebrated at a larger scale, being an introvert can often feel foreign and challenging. Introverts, characterized by a preference for solitude and a tendency to recharge in quiet environments, can feel overwhelmed with the expectations of a society that often values outgoing personalities and vibrant social lives. In this blog, I will further delve into the complexities of an introvert’s life in a party-heavy world, exploring pressures to conform, challenges faced in a party setting, coping strategies and the importance of embracing introversion.

The societal expectation to be a social butterfly can be an overwhelming challenge for introverts. As Simon Sinek once said, “An introvert wakes up in the morning with five coins. Each social interaction they spend a coin. At the end, they are depleted.” As an introvert, I can attest to this. This is one of the main reasons why the pressure of following societal norms can be particularly daunting for introverts. From office gatherings to weekend parties, the constant pressure to participate in social events can make introverts feel like they are surrounded by never-ending situations of small talk and crowded spaces. The common misconception about introversion is related to shyness and anti-social tendencies, when in fact it’s really about the environment and where introverts draw their energy. While extroverts feel energized in social situations, introverts may find these settings rather draining. 

These misconceptions can further compound challenges for introverts, in the sense that they are sometimes labeled as uninterested or even unfriendly. However, they can be incredibly warm and engaging in the right settings, but they may prefer deeper and more meaningful conversations over superficial chit-chat.

Finding a balance between the internal demand for solitude and societal expectations is an ongoing struggle for introverts. The pressure to conform to extroverted norms can lead to a dilemma of whether to push oneself beyond their comfort zone or risk being labeled as unsociable. Coping with anxiety in social settings and facing the fear of being misunderstood are a regular part of the introvert’s journey. It is not only mentally exhausting, but often adds an extra layer of stress. While human beings are commonly acknowledged as social animals, the precise degree to which sociability defines one as a human has never been definitively established, therefore, it is an unfair phenomenon to categorize introverts as anti-social when they value quality connections over quantity. 

Another unique challenge faced by introverts is energy drain in social situations. While some thrive on the energy of a crowd, introverts may find themselves mentally and emotionally fatigued after spending extended periods in social situations. This implies that introverts must fill up their energy levels before joining social events, then exit the situation when their energy levels have dropped and they require replenishment through moments of solitude. 

To navigate the party-heavy world as an introvert, I have developed some strategies for survival.

First and foremost is setting boundaries while prioritizing self-care. Recognize your limits and gracefully decline certain invitations if they fall out of your capabilities. That is not a sign of antisocial behavior, but an act of self-preservation and self-care. Small group gatherings or one-on-one conversations allow introverts to foster deeper connections with meaningful conversations without the overwhelming energy of a large crowd, which can often mentally paralyze an introvert. 

Another strategy is having effective communication skills in your toolkit. While not being the loudest participants in any room, introverts’ main strengths are often listening and observing. Leveraging these strengths and effective communication abilities, can allow introverts to contribute thoughtful insights to conversations, making their presence impactful even in the most extroverted settings. 

The last strategy for survival is preplanning. Based on your schedule, find a time slot where you can charge your energy levels. If you know that you have a gathering that you must attend next Saturday at 5 P.M., spend your Friday evening and early Saturday doing activities that will recharge your energy. Prepare yourself to embrace the social event with all the energy you have gained. 

Instead of viewing introversion as a limitation, it is important to recognize your strengths. Part of the reason why one may find social settings extremely draining to deal with could also be because one sees their introversion as a fault, instead of a strength. An article from Forbes magazine lists these as strengths of an introverted individual: problem-solving and cultivating deep relationships, as well as having thoughtful and measured communication styles. In addition to this, introverts are known to be detail-oriented, creative, and empaths. Celebrating these qualities can contribute to being comfortable in your own skin while being in social settings. 

Introverts should be encouraged to bring their authentic selves to social situations without the pressure to conform to notions of “normal” behavior. A more inclusive society understands that both introverts and extroverts contribute uniquely to the richness of human interaction. If society recognizes and appreciates the diversity of personality types, then that can help introverts be more comfortable in their own skin. There are many introverted leaders, famously known for not just their authentic personalities, but also their enormous actions impacting humans worldwide. Some of the famous introverted leaders are Oprah Winfrey, Warren Buffet and Ruth Bader Ginsberg.

In conclusion, in a world that often appreciates loud over quiet personalities, constant chatting over silent moments and outgoing over reserved natures, introverts persist, finding their way in a party-heavy society. The challenges they face are a testament to the need for a more understanding and inclusive society, rather than a reflection of their shortcomings. As we embrace and appreciate the diversity of personalities, let us also appreciate the unique qualities that introverts bring to the table, and in doing so, create a world where everyone, including both introverts and extroverts, can thrive authentically.

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My name is Roma. Writing is my passion and I hope to reach people’s hearts and make an impact via my words. I am a promoter of improving mental health, being compassionate, giving healthy space, understanding different love languages and ensuring quality lifestyles for everyone sharing the planet. I hope I was able to connect with you, the reader, through this blog post.

Fátima Lima (she/her/hers) Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

I’m a sports enthusiast! When the weekend approaches, the first thing that crosses my mind is always finding details regarding my football team’s agenda. What time is the Formula One race on Sunday? And from there, I start drawing up my weekend schedule. And it has been like that since my childhood. I grew up in Brazil, where football is enormous. It is a big chunk of our culture. People love and hate each other around a game field; it is all about who wins today’s game or the championship. Still, even though I appreciate sports, I have never understood the concept of winning becoming your only goal. 

Clichés fill my mind whenever I speak meaningfully about the things I love, but that sentiment is especially tricky in football. The game’s beautiful art seems to mock my purest intention to describe its beauty, and that is the tricky part: watching a game is so entertaining that winning could not be the only reason to enjoy it! I will never understand Brazil’s national team’s elimination back in the 1982 FIFA World Cup, which is the pinnacle of this sport. The team, a squad full of great players, enchanted and stopped the whole world, always in an offensive and engaging way. The individual talents were in great shape, and their harmony was remarkable. First-rate passes, back-heels, beautiful goals in well-crafted plays and plenty of class even in stealing the ball — that’s how the 1982 team played. Still, Brazil lost to Italy, and all the merits must be given to the winners, but the real thing is that everyone who enjoys this sport only remembers Brazil’s mesmerizing performance. I guess, thinking empathetically, Italy must have felt ecstatic about winning that one. 

The world of football, I believe, is not just made up of big leagues, millionaire salaries, glamour and fame. It is, above all, composed of stories, curiosities and historical facts that show how the game, many times, is just a detail. The art of taking the ball away from the attacker without committing a foul, the dribble that leaves the defender on the ground, and the spectacular saves of the goalkeepers are inexplicable sensations. The game is played on the streets of big cities, in housing estates and slums, in refugee camps, in small villages and remote regions. There is always a small kid wearing a football jersey! A team can represent a homeland, show people’s suffering, explain a war with different eyes, translate the crowd’s anger, exemplify passions and gather people around a very inexpensive item, a ball. I get back to thinking that maybe winning is not the only ecstasy.

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My name is Fátima Lima, and writing is my therapy. I believe art makes us better people, providing many ways to reflect on today’s world, the past and the future. I live in New Brunswick, Canada, and I work in a multicultural settlement agency. The best thing about collaborating with Low Entropy is the freedom to write about subjects I love in the way I write.

Grace Cheng (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

Cultural identity and celebrations have become increasingly important parts of our lives. Celebrations are often a time for families and friends to get together, connect with our heritage and strengthen our sense of cultural identity. Celebrations and cultural identities reflect how we identify ourselves within communities. Cultural identity and celebrations can give us a deeper understanding of ourselves, our culture and our world.

• Learning Unique Histories and Cultures

Celebrations serve as a reminder of identity and heritage through holiday traditions, traditional dress and religious beliefs. By participating in them, you have the opportunity to learn about different cultures’ history, traditions and language. Understanding a diversity of cultural norms and values can allow us to appreciate and respect those cultures that are different from ours. By studying how different cultures have adapted and evolved, we can gain insight into our own cultures and the reasons we do or do not do certain things.

• Preserving Traditions and Heritage

Celebrations of culture play an important role in preserving traditions and promoting cultural heritage. By participating in these festivities, we can preserve knowledge and practices passed down from generation to generation. Taking part in these events not only allows individuals to better understand their roots, but also preserves and promotes their cultural heritage for future generations to appreciate and learn from.

• The Power of Unity and Belonging

Cultural celebrations foster a sense of belonging within a community by bringing people together. Whether it happens during a religious festival, a national holiday or a traditional ceremony, these events provide a platform for individuals to connect with others, to meet and build relationships. A community’s activities serve as catalysts for social interaction, breaking down barriers and creating togetherness. Being connected to others and feeling a sense of belonging are important for personal well-being and can alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.

• Appreciating Diversity

Cultural celebrations highlight the richness of different cultures and promote diversity. Culture and festivals offer opportunities to experience and appreciate foods, music, art, clothing and traditions from various ethnicities. By experiencing different cultures, we gain a deeper understanding and respect for them, fostering a tolerant, inclusive society.

• Generational Learning

Celebrations provide an opportunity to educate and impart cultural values to future generations. Using rituals, storytelling and traditional practices, children and young adults can gain an understanding of their cultural values, ethics and morals. These celebrations allow elders to pass on wisdom and knowledge to future generations, preserving and upholding their culture’s values.

• Celebrating Achievements and Milestones

A cultural celebration is an opportunity to mark significant milestones and achievements in one’s life, from graduations to weddings. As a result of these events, individuals can reflect on their personal growth and accomplishments, as well as celebrate them formally and informally with loved ones and the wider community.

• Building Pride and Confidence

Celebrations of culture instill pride and confidence in individuals. These events foster an understanding of self-worth and empowerment by giving individuals an opportunity to highlight their culture, traditions and talents. Cultural celebrations reflect cultural resilience and strength.

A cultural celebration is not just a time for joy and merriment, it also offers valuable lessons and opportunities for community development and personal growth. We should remember that celebrations are more than just events, they reflect who we are as individuals and as a community. Let us embrace and celebrate the richness and diversity of cultures around us, for there is much to be learned and enjoyed.

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Grace has an accounting and finance background. She enjoys reading, writing, listening to music, watching movies and playing sports.

Lauren Long (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Blog Writer

How do you reward yourself for a personal victory? I think this is different for everyone. For example, if you’ve just landed your dream job, maybe you treat yourself to a self-care treatment, or buy something you’ve had your eye on for a while. 

I reward myself in different ways for various things. Sometimes it’s not even a reward, it’s an impulse, and it’s good to treat yourself once in a while. When I landed a good freelancing gig, I treated myself to my favourite candy and chocolate. I always buy Skittles when I go to the movies with my friends, and that’s what I bought myself when I began my current job. My mom is an artist and in the last year she’s gotten into pottery, so not only do I have some of her paintings in my office, I also have a bowl she made that I use for candy. 

I also love sushi, and sometimes after my counselling appointments, I’ll call my favourite sushi restaurant and place a pickup order to get on my way home. I don’t do it often, but there are days when I crave dynamite and California rolls with a side of spicy mayo. Yum! A weird quirk about me: I only eat sushi in the spring, summer and early fall, I can’t eat it once winter arrives! 

Another way I reward myself is reading or colouring. I’ve always been a reader, and I’ve started keeping books on the bookshelf in my office because the bookshelves in my bedroom are getting very full! Escaping the real world and losing myself in a book is a reward in itself, and there are days where I prefer the company of the characters found in novels than that of the company in the real world. It’s the same with colouring: I can lose track of time and just colour. 

I’ve started colouring in the evenings to shut my brain off and help me de-stress from the day. I make a habit of exercising daily, but sometimes you need a little bit more than that to fully de-stress and make it possible for a good night’s sleep so that you’re ready to face the next day. 

Colouring as a reward actually began when I was in university. In addition to going to the gym, I would colour to further de-stress from my classes, particularly around exam season, midterms and finals alike. But it soon became a part of my routine at home when I went back for breaks and summer holidays.

During one of my summer holidays, there was a point where my depression and anxiety were really bad, and my mom knew I was having a tough time. One day, she came home and surprised me with a Disney princess colouring book devoted completely to Cinderella, who was my favourite princess when I was a kid and who still holds a special place in my heart as an adult. 

Finally, if I’ve had some lengthy workdays and have had to cut my exercise time short as a result, I’ll treat myself to a longer session on the weekends. That might seem like a strange reward, but I don’t see workouts as a chore (although I’m aware that some people feel that way), I see them as a way to give yourself a break from whatever’s going on in your day and reconnect with yourself. My workouts are my “me time,” I don’t take my phone downstairs and I shut off notifications on my computer so I don’t get distracted. 

I think personal victories and rewarding them are important, because it’s self-validation and recognition that you achieved your goals. So go ahead, buy that outfit you’ve been eyeing. Get your friends together for a home-cooked meal and let the drinks flow and the good times roll. Whatever you love to do to reward yourself, do it. Life is too short not to enjoy the little things and small victories, because so very often, those become the big things. 

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Lauren Long is from Quesnel, BC, where she was born and raised. When she’s not writing, you can find her on the training mats or curled up with a good book. She is a strong advocate for mental health and overall wellbeing.