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School is often seen as a preparation for life through achievements and grades, but throughout my years in high school, I realized that it strives for a deeper purpose. While marks are often used to measure success in school, my experiences have shown me that true learning comes from curiosity, effort, and improvement over time. Education has taught me that understanding concepts, asking questions, and growing from mistakes are far more valuable than simply achieving a high grade.

Science, in particular, has helped me shape this perspective. In all science classes, learning is not just about memorizing information to get the right answer on a test. It’s about asking questions, experimenting, and trying to understand how our world works. Sometimes, experiments fail or answers are not clear, but those moments are where the most learning happens. Through this subject, I have realized that progress often comes through trial, error, and persistence rather than perfect results.

One experience that strongly shaped this mindset was taking AP Calculus. The class was designed to be extremely challenging, and at first I found myself focusing mostly on the grades I was receiving rather than what I was learning. Since the material was so difficult, it forced me to rethink how I approached the class, and eventually, learning as a whole. Instead of worrying about every mark, I decided to shift my mindset toward truly mastering the concepts. I spent more time trying to understand the logic behind problems and practicing until the ideas made sense rather than just trying to get the correct answer. Although it was still difficult on both my academic abilities and mental health, this change helped me appreciate the process of learning much more than the outcome of a single test. Realizing this helped me connect the challenges of the class to my future goals in healthcare, reminding me that the ultimate purpose of learning is to build knowledge and thinking skills to solve real-world problems. In healthcare, doctors study calculus to develop critical and logical thinking skills and to understand the principles of dynamic biological systems. Overall, this shift in mindset helped me see the deeper purpose of learning AP Calculus.

Due to these experiences, education has shaped how I see my role in the world. It has taught me to focus on growth, curiosity, and understanding rather than simply chasing grades. As I move into adulthood and post-secondary, I want to continue approaching learning with this mindset, especially in areas such as healthcare where curiosity and critical thinking can lead to real improvements in people’s lives.

I believe that being educated also comes with a responsibility to encourage others to see learning in the same way. Knowledge should not only be used to achieve personal success, but also to help others understand the world and solve problems within their communities. Ultimately, my education has shown me that learning is not defined by grades, but by the willingness to question, improve, and use knowledge to make a positive impact on your environment.

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1984: A letter from someone living after the fall of the Party

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1984: A letter from someone living after the fall of the Party

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Dear future citizen,

I write to you from a time long after the Party has fallen. For many years, people believed that the world under Big Brother would last forever. The Party claimed it was eternal and its rule and power were absolute. However, even the most powerful systems built on fear can’t survive forever. The Party has fallen, but the truth that was once buried, has begun to surface again.

Living under the Party was not only a political condition, it was an emotional one. Fear was constant, quiet, and personal. We learned to be careful with our facial expressions, our words, and even our thoughts. Telescreens watched us day and night, and the possibility of being reported was always high. The most painful part was not the surveillance itself, though. It was what it did to genuine human relationships. Friends became cautious with each other. Children were encouraged to report their parents. Through that, trust slowly disappeared. Many of us lived our entire lives without feeling safe enough to speak freely and honestly to another person. One of the most disturbing truths is how the regime survived not only through force, but through the citizens. Under constant pressure, people learned to accept things they knew were wrong. This raises a difficult ethical question for those of us who survived: How much responsibility do we carry when we live under a system that rewards obedience? Many people were victims, but some also became participants in maintaining the system, even if harm wasn’t intended.

Furthermore, the Party also controlled reality itself. History was constantly rewritten, and facts, such as 2 + 2 = 4, can be changed whenever the Party demanded it. By forcing people to accept contradictions like “ 2 +2 = 5,” it was able to distort the truth until citizens no longer trusted their own memories. This reveals a scary truth: when the past becomes unstable, it becomes easier to control the present. This may have been the Party’s greatest crime, which is destroying the idea that truth still exists. When people can no longer rely on the truth, they lose the ability to question power.

For those of us living after the fall, remembering is painful, but necessary. Future generations, like yourself, must understand how fragile freedom truly is. It can disappear slowly through propaganda, censorship, and the normalization of fear, long before people realize what they have lost. The lesson we carry forward is to actively protect truth and moral courage because a healthy society depends on people who aren’t afraid to ask questions or voice their opinions.

So, whoever reads this in the future, remember that freedom is not only about laws. It is about the ability to trust your own mind, to speak honestly with one another, and to live without the fear of being punished for the truth. With freedom also comes responsibility to defend the truth and refuse to remain silent when injustice appears. Because once a society loses the truth, it may take generations to rebuild what was destroyed.

Sincerely,

One Who Remembered

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The Housemaid by Freida McFadden is a fast-paced psychological thriller about a woman with a dark past who takes a job in a seemingly perfect home only to discover that the family’s secrets may be even more dangerous than her own.

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Read 100k reviews from the world's largest community for readers. "Welcome to the family," Nina Winchester says as I shake her elegant, manicured hand. I s...

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The Housemaid’s Secret by Freida McFadden is a twisty psychological thriller that follows Millie, now working for a new wealthy family, as she uncovers shocking secrets hidden behind a locked bedroom door, proving once again that appearances can be deadly deceptive.

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The Housemaid's Secret (The Housemaid, #2)

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Read 26.2k reviews from the world's largest community for readers. It's hard to find an employer who doesn't ask too many questions about my past. So I tha...

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Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins is a gripping Hunger Games prequel that follows a young Haymitch Abernathy as he’s thrust into the brutal 50th Games, sparks rebellion through covert sabotage, and endures heartbreaking loss that shapes him into the mentor we know.

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Sunrise on the Reaping (The Hunger Games, #0.5)

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When you’ve been set up to lose everything you love, wh…

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None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell is a gripping psychological thriller about a podcaster who becomes entangled in the chilling, manipulative life of a mysterious woman she interviews until the lines between truth and lies blur dangerously.

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Read 33.2k reviews from the world's largest community for readers. Lisa Jewell returns with a scintillating new psychological thriller about a woman who fi...

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Apr 7th:

We officially launched our initiative with an information session and hands-on activity at Granville Gardens, the senior residence. Katie and I introduced the Herbs of Hope program to a group of five interested seniors and explained how it promotes sustainability, mental well-being, and community connection. Then, we guided everyone through planting herb seeds in mason jars on cotton balls, including basil, mint, chives, rosemary, and a lot more. The seniors really enjoyed the activity and some even shared their memories of gardening in the past. We also handed out printed care instructions to help them nurture their jars until the next session.

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The following is an assignment from my New Media Class. The aim of this assignment was to analyze film and to critically look at the movies of our chosen director that we have discussed in class.

INTRODUCTION:

David Fincher, one of modern cinema’s most celebrated directors, is renowned for his meticulously crafted films that dive into the complexities of human nature and stylish filmmaking signatures. Over multiple decades, Fincher has left lifelong impressions in Hollywood with works like Se7en (1995), Fight Club (1999), Zodiac (2007), and The Social Network (2010). Each film not only achieves commercial success but also highlights his talent for exploring nuanced psychological narratives. Se7en and Zodiac stand out as some of his greatest films because they exemplify the core elements that define his signature style and storytelling mastery. Se7en establishes his reputation for creating atmospheric worlds of dread, with its rain-soaked visuals and high-tension becoming representations of his ability to combine visual precision with narrative impact. On the other hand, Zodiac highlights Fincher’s talent for handling layered storytelling, seamlessly weaving multiple perspectives into a gripping exploration of obsession. Both films accentuate his fascination with morally ambiguous characters, precision with details, and his ability to pursuit unforgettable cinematic experiences that linger with audiences.

Fincher’s filmmaking style is characterized by his meticulous attention to detail, demanding countless takes to achieve his vision, a keen eye for color to convey emotions, and tracking characters through precise camera movements. His ability to be extremely detailed also extends to historical accuracy and backdrop production, ensuring every element of his films aligns with his vision. He often uses muted color palettes to create a gloomy atmosphere with occasional pops of color to draw attention to key details or heighten dramatic moments. In addition, he sometimes uses opposing colors to symbolize conflict or tension to add layers of visual storytelling to his narratives. Recurring themes of obsession, manipulation, and alienation are evident across his films, from the tense psychological control in The Game (1997) to the unraveling of mysteries in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011). Fincher’s narratives also often build toward shocking twists or ambiguous conclusions that leave audiences to reflect on the worlds that the characters inhabit. His precise camera tracking shots further immerse audiences in the cinematic experience. This combination of technical precision and thematic depth solidifies Fincher as one of the most distinctive filmmakers of our time.

BIOGRAPHY:

David Fincher, born on August 28, 1962, in Denver, Colorado, grew up in Anselmo, California, where he developed a deep interest in filmmaking at an early age. His father, Jack Fincher, a journalist, fostered his early appreciation for storytelling and visual communication. Growing up near his neighbor, filmmaker George Lucas, Fincher was exposed to the world of cinema, which further fueled his passion. When he was eight years old, Fincher watched a documentary on the making of Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid (1969) that ignited his fascination with the process of filmmaking. It was at that moment he realized the complexity of how movies were made and decided he would spend his life trying to unlock the mysteries of cinema.

Fincher’s early career began in the realm of visual effects, where he worked as an assistant cinematographer at George Lucas’s Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) during the early 1980s. While he was working at ILM, he contributed to the visual effects of iconic films like Return of the Jedi (1983) and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984), sharpening his understanding of how to tell a story visually. This experience was crucial in developing his attention to detail, which would later become a signature of his style in filmmaking. After leaving ILM in 1984, he directed his first commercial for the American Cancer Society, which was praised for its striking visuals and storytelling. This project marked the beginning of his career as a director.

By the late 1980s, Fincher co-founded Propaganda Films, a production company that became a significant platform for music videos and commercials. Fincher directed several iconic music videos under the company, including Madonna’s “Express Yourself” and “Vogue.” These visually sophisticated projects helped build his reputation as a director capable of creating short-form media. His success in the music video industry staged his transition into filmmaking. In 1992, he made his directional debut with Alien 3 (1992), a sci-fi horror film that follows the survivor of a spaceship crash as she battles a deadly xenomorph in an isolated colony. The film faced numerous challenges, such as a chaotic production and studio interference, leaving a commercial and critical disappointment. However, it introduced many elements of Fincher’s visual styles and themes of moral ambiguity that would later define his films. Despite the setback with Alien 3, Fincher’s career quickly skyrocketed with the release of Se7en, a gripping thriller that dives into the darkest aspects of the human psyche. This success marked a turning point, leading to a series of praised films such as Fight Club, Zodiac, and The Social Network, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Director. Fincher’s works have also earned him many other recognitions, including Golden Globe and BAFTA awards. Beyond films, his influence extends to television, with House of Cards (2018) earning him an Emmy, further solidifying his status as one of the most influential filmmakers of his generation.

FINCHER’S ATTENTION TO DETAIL:

David Fincher’s meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create immersive atmospheres is evident in many aspects of his films, including Zodiac, a true story that follows a group of journalists, detectives, and a cartoonist consumed by the hunt for the Zodiac killer whose brutal murders terrorized San Francisco during the 1960s to 1970s. David Fincher’s commitment to detail is evident in every frame. He reconstructs the case with journalistic and forensic precision by drawing from police reports, eyewitness testimony, ciphers, handwriting analysis, and fingerprints to ensure historical accuracy. Fincher and screenwriter James Vanderbilt spent over two years researching the film and collaborating with crime experts, journalists, and witnesses to guarantee that even the smallest details reflect reality. His dedication is evident in how he recreates era-specific elements, such as the design of the San Francisco Chronicle office and the diners where detectives look over case files, which makes every set feel like a snapshot frozen in time. Moreover, he incorporates actual newspaper articles, detailed crime scene reenactments, and period-accurate songs and films, such as Donovan’s haunting “Hurdy Gurdy Man” during the chilling opening murder scene and a reference to Dirty Harry, a film inspired by the Zodiac case itself. Overall, Fincher’s commitment to realism allows the story to thrive on the characters’ relentless pursuit rather than dramatics. The film’s authenticity transforms Zodiac into not only a gripping thriller but an exploration of obsession that made more impactful by its adherence to historical details.

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These were the slides we used to introduce our gardening + sustainability initiative to the seniors.

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Expository Film Essay: David Fincher Pt.2

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Expository Film Essay: David Fincher Pt.2

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Similarly, in The Game, centering on a wealthy businessman, Nicholas Van Orton, who becomes entangled in a life-changing game that blurs the lines between reality and illusion, Fincher’s meticulous control over plot structure and pacing showcases his mastery in complex narratives. Every detail in the film, such as the positions of characters and objects enhances the unpredictable nature of the “game.” For example, Nicholas’s office is initially framed with his desk at the center, symbolizing his control and isolation. However, as the game progresses, this framing begins to shift, mirroring how his life spins out of control. Recurring motifs like the telephone also play a crucial role because it symbolizes the growing intrusion of the “game.” The first mysterious rejection call sets the unsettling tone of the narrative, and subsequent calls often come at disorienting moments that make both Nicholas and the audience question their authenticity and emphasize his paranoia. The pacing of the narrative is also worth noting of Fincher’s attention to detail. Clues and red herrings are introduced in a steady rhythm, often just enough to make the viewer feel the puzzle coming together, but never too much to give away the full truth. For instance, Nicholas receives a series of random gifts, such as the key in the clown’s mouth, that later turn into critical tools for his survival. Plus, Christine, played by Deborah Kara Unger, begins as a seemingly innocent bystander but is later revealed to be a part of the conspiracy. Her fluctuating role between an ally and adversary adds another layer of suspense. Scenes like Nicholas finding out Christine’s staged apartment with price tags still on the furniture demonstrate how CRS manipulates Nicholas’s trust and perception of reality. Even in quieter moments like the opening scene of Nicholas’s childhood birthday party, Fincher hints at Nicholas’s emotional emptiness. The parallels between Nicholas and his father, who committed suicide at the same age, add more emotional weight into the narrative. Ultimately, Fincher draws the audience into Nicholas’s nightmare that even its resolution feels like it was part of the “game.” The film’s intricate pacing and narrative twists rewards multiple rewatches and once again proves Fincher’s attention to detail.

Additionally, Fincher's Se7en, following two detectives that hunt a methodical serial killer whose brutal murders are inspired by the seven deadly sins, exemplifies his meticulous attention to detail through its haunting set designs, amplifying the film’s oppressive atmosphere. The city itself is drenched in grime and rain that creates a suffocating environment, mirroring the characters’ dark journey. The police offices are filled with old furniture and dim lighting that evokes a sense of decay, while the constant rain outside make the city feel grim. Crime scenes, like the “Gluttony” victim’s apartment has ants that creates an unsettling atmosphere and claustrophobic feeling. The city itself becomes a character that is a suffocating backdrop to the unfolding horrors. One setting that stands out is John Doe’s apartment. Its claustrophobic space, painted in black and lit with dim red hues represents the psychological depth of Doe’s twisted psyche. Details like hundreds of handwritten diary entries, grotesque “souvenirs” from victims, and photographs not only emphasize John Doe’s meticulousness but also create an environment that feels disturbingly real. Other locations, such as Somerset’s vintage apartment and the library with its sacred atmosphere serve as extensions of the characters. Somerset’s apartment, including the ticking metronome reflects his life trapped in endless routine and disappointments, while the library’s endless shelves and corridors offer a quiet peace from the city’s chaos. Through this obsessive attention to set designs, Fincher creates a world that feels suffocatingly real and immerses the audience in Se7en’s miserable vision.

FINCHER’S USE OF COLOR:

David Fincher’s intentional use of color enhances his storytelling by visually reflecting the psychological and emotional layers of his films. Through opposing colors to symbolize conflicts, striking pops of color to draw attention to key elements, and carefully crafted palettes to evoke specific emotions, Fincher immerses audiences in the intricate perspectives of his characters. For example, he masterfully uses opposing colors to visualize internal and external conflicts that emphasize the moral struggles in Se7en. The climax in the barren desert with muted brown tones contrasts sharply with the vibrant red of John Doe’s prison shirt. This landscape mirrors Somerset’s weary attitude while the vivid red signifies Mills’s erupting fury and outrage, creating a distinction between restraint and chaos. Comparably, in The Game, the bright yellow graffiti painted across Nicholas’s dark mansion symbolizes his growing paranoia and the intrusion of chaos into his structured, routine life. These clashing colors externalize Nicholas’s mental state and the loneliness that consumes him. Another example is shown in The Social Network, following the rise of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerburg, and showing his journey from a Harvard student to a billionaire while navigating personal and legal battles. The betrayal scene where Eduardo discovers that his shares have been diluted uses opposing yellow and blue tones in the background of the office to visually represent the fractured relationship between him and Mark. The blue, which is often related to loyalty and trust, mixes with yellow, symbolizing deceit, reflect the deep betrayal between the former best friends. Through these visual contrasts, Fincher deepens the storytelling, drawing viewers further into the psychological turmoil of his characters.

Another way Fincher uses color to enhance his narratives is through discordant colors or pops of color, which draw attention to certain elements and build anticipation. In The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, a mystery about a journalist and a hacker uncovering dark secrets in a wealthy family, the bright orange torture tools hanging on the wall in Martin’s basement stand out against the muted setting. This contrast heightens the audience’s discomfort by foreshadowing the horror to come as the tools not only suggest violence but also showcase Martin’s calculated and brutal personality. This strategy makes the tools appear more menacing, drawing focus and creating a sense of inevitability. Additionally, in Se7en, the intense red light in the “Lust” crime scene sharply contrasts with the desaturated tones of the rest of the scene, symbolizing the violence and danger done by the killer’s twisted actions. Although the murder itself is not shown, this pop of color allows the audience to feel the brutality of the crime, evoking horror without graphic imagery. The vivid red amplifies the tension and makes the unseen violence feel even more disturbing. Fincher uses deliberate pops of color to focus attention on critical details while deepening the emotional impact.

Furthermore, Fincher’s intentional color palettes evoke specific emotions within the audiences that deepen the impact of the narrative. His use of black and washed-out tones in Zodiac enhances the film’s atmosphere and emotional depth. The black represents the darkness and unsolved mystery surrounding the Zodiac killer, emphasizing his unseen face and unknown identity, while the washed-out tones reflect the psychological exhaustion of the detectives. This realistic palette and muted colors serve to capture the relentless yet pointless pursuit of the Zodiac killer by Robert Graysmith and Dave Toschi. Their obsession seeps into the film’s visual language. Also, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo employs icy blues and desaturated tones to mirror the isolated landscape and the cold nature of the investigation. These cold hues evoke a sense of emotional detachment, reflecting the nature of uncovering dark truths. This aesthetic is sharply contrasted with the warm golden tones during the flashbacks when Harriet was still with her family, suggesting a time that was safe before darkness took over their family. This emphasizes the emotional turmoil characters face while deepening the viewer’s immersion in the story’s haunting atmosphere.

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At the beginning of the semester, I set three main goals for myself, including to analyze movies by identifying themes and understanding the technical aspects of films, put more of my own voice and include more literary elements into fictional writing, and improve my skills in researching and paraphrasing. These goals guided my approach to each assignment and shaped my growth as a writer throughout the semester. Some of the key assignments I worked on this semester include an expository film essay about David Fincher, a research paper on CRISPR technology, and a fictional short story about my previous skating competition. Each assignment challenged me in different ways and helped me grow in specific aspects of writing.

Before starting any piece, I focused on gathering websites, conducting thorough research, and drafting an outline. Over the course of the semester, I refined these steps by becoming more efficient at paraphrasing and organizing information, which helped me draft more confidently. Drafting was the most challenging part of the writing process for me because it required putting other people’s words into my own and ensuring my explanations were clear for the audience. To address this, I focused on breaking down complex ideas into simpler terms and revisited my drafts to ensure clarity and coherence.

One piece I’m especially proud of is my expository film essay on David Fincher. This assignment stands out because it is a detailed and analytical piece on one of my favorite directors, and I was thrilled to receive full marks for it. The revisions I made after proofreading my own work significantly improved its structure and flow. Through this process, I learned the importance of attention to detail and how thoughtful revisions can elevate a piece of writing.

Additionally, this semester, I’ve noticed significant growth in my writing voice, especially in creative writing assignments. My fictional short story about my skating competition is a strong example of this. In this story, I included a lot of descriptive language and interesting dialogue, which made the story feel authentic and connected to my personal experiences. I realized that my writing style tends to focus on vivid imagery and capturing emotions through realistic interactions between characters.

A memorable challenge this semester was feeling stuck while drafting my research paper on CRISPR, a gene-editing technology. I overcame this by breaking the task into smaller steps and focusing on paraphrasing one section at a time. This strategy not only helped me complete the paper but also taught me the value of perseverance and organization in writing.

Reflecting on this semester, I am proud of my growth as a writer and excited to continue to improve in the future. Each piece I’ve written has taught me something new and I look forward to applying these lessons and skills to future projects and challenges.

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Expository Film Essay: David Fincher Pt. 3

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Expository Film Essay: David Fincher Pt. 3

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FINCHER’S CAMERA TILTS, PANS, AND TRACKING SHOTS

David Fincher’s meticulous use of camera movement, following characters through tilts, pans, and tracking shots, creates a profound connection between viewers and the story. By mirroring the subtle and dramatic actions of characters, Fincher’s camera becomes an extension of the characters themselves by revealing their behavior and motivations. He once gave directing advice to Robin Wright saying, “every scene you direct is behaviors over time, like a fraction,” emphasizing that behavior is the most critical element to read, perform, and direct. He understands that the way a person moves is an essential reflection of who they are because it conveys their emotions, motivations, and state of minds in ways that dialogue alone can’t achieve. For example, in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, a tilt follows Mikael as he leans forward and adjusts his posture. This captures his discomfort and the weight of the dangerous secrets he uncovers. Additionally, in Zodiac, the camera tracks a policeman’s pacing as he slides into his office chair, immersing the viewers into solving a mystery while subtly highlighting the psychological strain it possesses. In The Social Network, the camera moves with Eduardo as he strides toward Mark to confront him about his diluted shares, visually amplifying the building tension and Eduardo’s anger before the confrontation erupts. Similarly, in Se7en, the camera rises with Detective Mills as he stands and halts when he stops, syncing perfectly with his movements to intensify the audience’s focus on his growing impatience with the case. By following characters’ exact movements with the camera, Fincher allows audiences to experience the narrative through the characters’ perspectives, transforming the act of just watching and observing the characters into an experience where viewers feel as if they are in the characters’ physical and emotional realities.

Ultimately, this technique goes beyond aesthetics, drawing audiences into Fincher’s films on a deeper, almost subconscious level. Fincher effectively “hijacks” our eyes, making us see, feel, and react as his characters do. This approach doesn’t just reveal character motivations, but it establishes an unbreakable bond between the audience and the narrative, transforming every scene into a shared experience. Through his precise camera strategies, Fincher creates a cinematic experience that is as psychologically engaging as it is visually striking.

CONCLUSION:

Although David Fincher’s name doesn’t always appear beside legendary directors like Alfred Hitchcock, his films never fail to leave a lasting emotional impact on audiences, whether by unsettling them or inspiring a shift in perspective. His unique quality as an extremely detailed director allows him to craft authentic worlds and characters that resonate with viewers. Paramount Pictures includes in their Zodiac production notes, “Fincher articulates human behavior and emotions cinematically in a way that feels so real, it draws audiences into the narrative as if they were part of it.” This immersive quality often leads audiences to see things that were never explicitly shown, a testament to the psychological grip his work maintains.

On top of that, Fincher’s influence on the film industry extends far beyond his storytelling. He has revolutionized digital filmmaking by combining innovative technology with artistic precision to create visually stunning and complex works. For example, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo utilized CGI in subtle and seamless ways to heighten tension, while Panic Room (2002), a story about a mother and daughter locking themselves in a safe room during a home invasion, employs advanced smooth camera techniques to enhance its claustrophobic atmosphere. Furthermore, his meticulous approach to filmmaking has influenced directors, such as Fede Alvarez. Alvarez openly acknowledged in an interview about the impact Panic Room had on him, particularly in terms of how Fincher uses the camera to immerse the audience within a confined space. This is shown in Don’t Breathe (2016), following burglars who break into the home of a blind man only to find themselves trapped in a deadly game of survival, where Alvarez employs similar techniques, such as the precise camera movements that mirror Fincher’s. Ultimately, Alvarez’s attention to detail and his ability to create tension showcase the lasting impact of Fincher’s work.

Looking ahead, Fincher remains at the lead of modern cinema. His recent project, The Killer (2023), following a methodical hitman who faces psychological and physical challenges as his life is threatened while attempting to complete an assassination, showcases his signature precision in every shot. As an innovator and a storyteller who dives deeply into the human psyche, Fincher not only captivates audiences but also inspires a generation of filmmakers to aim for the same level of technical and emotional impact. His enduring influence ensures his place as a pivotal figure in the evolving world of cinema.

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The recreational manager provided my club an opportunity to be on the monthly Granville Gardens newsletter, so we did!

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STORY: 21/25

The Kingdom offers an engaging storyline, but there were some minimal flaws. Initially, the three-act narrative structure of the film leads to a slow pace in the first and second acts due to multiple storylines being covered. Therefore, this pacing sets it apart from typical action films, adding a unique touch to this genre. An example is the subplot involving Fleury’s blackmail of the Washington Post and the FBI team’s culture shock due to strict local regulations enhances the film’s realism. Even though this slower buildup establishes some useful information before the action intensifies, this slower pacing might make audiences feel drawn out compared to the typical rapid motions in action films.

On the other hand, the third act accelerates with fast-paced action sequences, including gun fights and explosions. These nerve-racking set pieces effectively heighten suspense and maintain the audience’s engagement throughout.

In addition, Fleury's character development is particularly notable as a determined FBI agent juggling vulnerability with the loss of Fran. His confidence in his job is shown when he challenges Saudi generals’ authority, while his vulnerability is evident in emotional scenes with Fran’s son at the beginning and Faris’s son at the end. Showing different facets of him makes his character more multidimensional.

Moreover, the contrast between Saudi and American cultures is emphasized through dialogue, although some lines may come off as stereotypical, savior complex, which immediately affects the film’s authenticity. For instance, the antagonists’ exaggerated religious rituals and the oversimplified cultural differences in handling terrorism contributed to this unrealistic effect.

Also, the film's conclusion signifies how similar the opposing parties are. Fleury’s statement, "We're going to kill them all" states the sentiment shared by Abu Hamza to his grandson, hinting at his future involvement in seeking revenge against the Americans. In the context of this action genre, The Kingdom meets the audiences’ expectations with its impressive set scenes, A-list actors, and well executed physical performances. Additionally, mentioning Abu Hamza several times before his appearance was strategic. It aligns with the genre’s need for high-stakes drama, which deepens the viewers’ investment into the “good” and “bad” guys.

In summary, The Kingdom presents a captivating piece of drama with strong character development and a unique narrative. Its unfortunate inclusion of stereotypical elements, such as Americans coming to save the day, and its delayed pacing issues hinder the film to becoming an all-time favorite. However, it succeeded in delivering an engaging and entertaining film with action movies’ standards.

ACTING: 24/25

In The Kingdom, the actors delivered performances that were convincing and showcased an undeniable chemistry between each other. Jamie Foxx, as Ronald Fleury, skillfully balanced authority and vulnerability by delivering lines with various tones and facial expressions. His ability to convey different attitudes was evident in the confrontation with the Saudi generals. He shouted, “I’m not that guy!” while confronting them up close with intense eye contact, standing tall and unflinching, represents Fleury’s resilient and determined nature. On the contrary, his softer, warmer demeanor during a scene with Fran’s son highlighted his compassionate side, where he imitates helicopter sounds to make him laugh. These scenes demonstrated Foxx’s versatility in portraying several aspects of his character.

Also, Jason Bateman’s acting stood out in a tense scene where the antagonist team held him captive. His vulnerability was impactful with his facial expressions showing a sense of fear and desperation. Another example we see is the moment when he hopelessly clings to a door only for one of the antagonists to kick his hand away was particularly notable, proving Bateman’s ability to evoke empathetic feelings from the audience.

Ashraf Barhom, as Faris, delivered a noteworthy performance as well. His transition from antagonist to supportive role in the FBI team was handled well. Barhom’s chemistry with Foxx was the highlight of the film. In the car scene, they developed an unlikely friendship with mutual trust. Barhom’s line, “I want to kill them when I see them”, was said with such intensity that it added depth to his character’s emotional stakes. Their evolving friendship added layers to the narrative and kept it engaging for emotionally invested audiences.

To summarize, the ability of these actors to convey complex emotions enhanced the narrative. The chemistry between Foxx and Barhom enriched the film’s emotional depth.

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The Kingdom (2007) ⭐ 7.0 | Action, Drama, Thriller

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This is an ongoing journal page for the progress of my Helping Hearts Club initiative: Herbs of Hope.

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Introduction

What if one could “undo” genetic mistakes? With the help of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR), it’s certainly possible. This revolutionary gene-editing technology simultaneously has the potential to transform medicine, agriculture, and scientific research by allowing precise DNA changes. However,  this emergence also presents serious challenges, so making a balanced approach to harness its benefits while addressing its ethical and social implications is important. This exploration covers how CRISPR functions, its strengths and limitations, and the step-by-step process of gene editing. It also examines the biological impacts of these edits and how they manifest as phenotypes in organisms. Finally, it addresses the ethical considerations and potential consequences of managing this powerful technology.

A More Affordable and Precise Alternative

CRISPR is a powerful and precise tool for editing DNA, and it only needs two key components: CAS nuclease and a guide RNA. Once these two parts come together, they form a complex that allows for fast and accurate DNA changes. Think of DNA as an instruction book in our cells, and sometimes scientists need to make updates to it to treat diseases. CAS nucleases act like scissors that cut the DNA at specific locations, allowing scientists to add or remove pieces of DNA. The guide RNA is like a map that directs these scissors to the exact spot where changes are needed, ensuring the editing is precise and effective.

In addition, CRISPR-Cas9 can make changes to multiple genes at the same time if we use different guide RNAs for different spots. This technology is also cheaper and simpler to use than other gene-editing tools because it only needs two parts to work, making it quicker and easier for scientists to make changes.

CRISPR also shows great promise in treating genetic disorders, such as sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis. In agriculture, CRISPR can create crops that resist pests and develop disease-resistant animals, which can improve food safety and reduce the need for antibiotics. It also supports stem cell research, which is important for regenerative medicine, and helps study pathogens to find new treatments for infectious diseases. Overall,  the efficiency of CRISPR means customers can achieve faster and more accurate results and spend less money.

Designer Babies and Other Potential Impacts of CRISPR-Cas9

However, with such groundbreaking potential come significant challenges and ethical considerations. CRISPR-Cas9 not only opens doors to medical and agricultural advancements but also raises complex issues around human gene editing. Scientists use different methods to get CRISPR-Cas9 into cells, like tiny electric shocks, special fats, or even viruses. Even when CRISPR-Cas9 gets inside, it might not always make the exact changes we want because it relies on a process called homology-directed repair (HDR), which is still being improved. HDR corrects malfunctioning DNA by searching for a template of a matching piece of DNA with the correct information, so that the cell can fill in the gaps and stitch the broken ends back together, ensuring the new DNA resembles the original condition.

Also, CRISPR-Cas9 sometimes makes changes in the wrong places by mistake, so scientists are working hard to make it more accurate and avoid these errors. Another issue, Using CRISPR to change human embryos raises ethical concerns, such as the possibility of "designer babies" and unintended genetic changes. The first CRISPR edited  baby was born on November 26, 2018, in Shenzhen, China. Dr. Jiankui states that the delivery of the twins, Lulu and Nina, had been modified genetically by altering that gene CCR5 in their embryos. The modification was to protect the children from contracting HIV since their father suffered from it.  While CRISPR is precise, it can still cause unexpected effects, and its long-term impact on health and future generations is still unknown.

There are also worries about socioeconomic inequalities if CRISPR isn’t available to everyone and potential environmental impacts from GMOs affecting ecosystems. Additionally, the potential misuse of CRISPR for weapons emphasizes the need for guidelines. Balancing the benefits and risks of CRISPR is crucial to address these challenges. In summary, CRISPR is hard to handle due to its tiny mistakes, ethical concerns, and socioeconomic impacts that might arise in the future.

Affecting Future Generations

Beyond these immediate concerns, CRISPR-Cas9 could also have unintended effects on future generations. Therefore, when scientists use CRISPR-Cas9, they need to be careful. Sometimes, these tools can accidentally change genes they weren't supposed to. These changes can keep happening in future generations, and they might get worse over time. Also, genes might move to other plants or animals, which can cause problems for those living things. Controlling these changes can be really hard.

If we can change things like the color of a cat’s fur, we might be able to change things about people’s appearance, such as their skin color. This raises doubts about whether we should decide how people should look or be like, which can lead to problems if we start choosing traits for children. We also need to think about who will make decisions and give permission if there are problems with gene-edited children. It’s tricky because we can’t predict all the outcomes and who’s responsible for them.

Scientists are careful about how they use CRISPR-Cas9, especially when it comes to changing human genes. They agree that using CRISPR-Cas9 to understand diseases and create models for research is acceptable. However, using it to change things like human traits or for "designer babies" is still a big concern. They need to solve these ethical and safety issues before CRISPR-Cas9 can be used more broadly in humans. There’s a debate about whether or not CRISPR-Cas9 technologies should be patented. Patenting can help control how the technology is used but could also make it expensive. Scientists and companies need to work together to find a fair way to manage this. People have had mixed feelings about genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the past. Since CRISPR-Cas9 can create GMOs, it’s important to be open and clear with the public about how these organisms are created and used.

Guidelines That Should Be Followed Responsibly

To address these complex issues, clear and responsible guidelines are essential. When scientists use CRISPR-Cas9 to change genes, it’s hard to tell which modified plants or animals are in stores after they leave the lab. Agencies like the FDA check if these genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are safe for us, but it's tricky to keep up with new changes. Another issue is who owns the rights to these new gene technologies. There’s a lot of debate over who gets to own these gene-editing methods. For example, there was a case about who could own CRISPR-Cas9 for medical use, and it was decided that one of the companies could hold it.

When scientists change the genes in embryos, there are some issues to consider. Sometimes unintended changes can occur, which could be harmful. This is more likely in embryos than in adult cells. These extra changes can cause diseases too. Editing genes is very costly. Poor families might not be able to afford it, which would create unfair differences between kids from different places. Sometimes, gene editing creates a mix of different genes in the same person, leading to unexpected health problems. Plus, we can’t always predict what might go wrong with gene editing until the baby is born. Some problems might only show up many years later. Therefore, due to these issues, scientists are debating on this technology and are working to find safer methods.

Ultimately, as CRISPR-Cas9 continues to evolve, regulations will likely need to adapt and grow to address ethical, safety, and societal concerns effectively. Continuous discussions among scientists, ethicists, and the public will be crucial in shaping a regulatory guideline that balances this powerful technology with responsibility.

Conclusion

To conclude, CRISPR technology demonstrates tremendous potential for revolutionizing medicine, agriculture, and genetics by enabling precise edits of DNA, offering promising solutions for genetic disorders, crop improvements, and possibly even disease prevention.However, its application raises significant ethical and social concerns, especially in the context of designer babies and potential long-term impacts on future generations. While CRISPR holds the promise of eliminating inherited diseases, it also deepens social inequalities and alters human genetics in unpredictable ways. To harness its benefits responsibly, strict guidelines and equitable access must be prioritized to prevent misuse. Ultimately, balancing innovation with ethical responsibility will be essential to ensure that CRISPR’s legacy is positive and just for generations to come.

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rating: 4.75/5

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Read 8,905 reviews from the world's largest community for readers. A new true-crime fueled mystery thriller about a girl determined to uncover the shocking...

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rating: 4.5/5

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This book starts off really strong with a great premise - intriguing and mysterious right away - the writing is even pretty strong in the beginning, but somewhere along the way it all seemed to fall apart for me. I felt like the author was so determined to deliver the big 'twist' that he lost sight of the actual plot. It just gets so convoluted and meandering, and I couldn't really follow what actually happened, from what was meant to be the lies and fantasy of some characters. The author also spends an awful lot of the book having the main character, Theo, 'investigate' Alicia's family members - the cousin, the aunt, the brother in law, her gallery manager - and each of them is made to seem weird, untrustworthy and in some cases outright creepy - but all of it ends up just feeling like a cheap trick, because nothing comes of any of them. Like, for example, the plot about the brother in law assaulting her, or the cousin borrowing money, - none of those things are resolved and it just feels like a lazy way for the author to point our suspicions in the wrong direction while leaving frustrating loose ends everywhere. I mean, you can make any character seem suspicious and create false suspense very easily if you have no obligation to deliver any resolutions.

In the author's single quest to deliver the big 'twist' he also left big holes in the plot and expected us to overlook implausible things... like, one small but obvious thing - at the start of the book Theo's belongings are searched by 'security' before entering the hospital and he is specifically told he can't have any lighters for "obvious reasons" - can't have any of the psychiatric patients getting their hands on a way to start fires - (now the author didn't need to mention this in the story - he could have lost this scene and not drawn attention to the fact that Theo was not allowed to bring in a lighter - not sure why it was even a point??) but then through out the book the characters smoke cigars and cigarettes in the hospital ... how do they light them?? They all carry matches I assume? Are matches any less likely to start a fire??! There were SO MANY eye-rolling moments through out the book like that one, and far worse. So many times we, as readers, were expected to buy into implausible actions by characters (like Alicia's cousin beating Theo over the head with a baseball bat and knocking him out because he thought he was an intruder (in his yard - not even his house!), and then not to mention Theo feeling fine and not needing any medical attention??) or just overlook unbelievable scenarios - like Theo following his wife's lover for miles and never once actually seeing his face?? When the police investigate the scene of Alicia's husband's death, how do they not find the rope and wire that was used to tie up Alicia? And Who has enough rope and wire just lying around in their house to tie up two adults anyway?! And another doozy - Theo injects Alicia with enough morphine to put her in a coma for the rest of her life, but she has time to find a pen and diary and write a very lucid, long entry explaining Theo's role in everything?! Besides the fact that she would be completely out of it and totally incapable of writing, even if she could, why wouldn't she, I don't know, go get help because you've just been injected with a lethal dose of morphine, instead of writing a short story??! And then with a lethal amount of morphine coursing through her blood stream she takes the time to hide her diary in a picture frame?! Seriously?! It's almost funny.

And what about Alicia's silence?? The mystery at the heart of the book - in the very title itself. The big reveal, the big answer shrouded in suspense and mystery .... the reason she didn't talk was because she felt she had nothing to say??? Because she felt like she was dead too?? Wait... what? Seriously? She's been accused of murdering her husband, while the man who stalks her, breaks in to her home, ties her up and threatens to kill her later shows up as her therapist, while she allows her other therapist to continue drugging her with "horse dosage" amounts of sedatives - but oh well, silence for years and years because she felt dead and had nothing to say?? And she stays silent mind you, while she still manages to hide her diary?!? We can only assume she goes to extreme measures to keep the police from ever finding it? Even though they walk in right after the murder while she's still holding the smoking gun - I guess they gave her time to gather her things and somehow hide a diary down her pants while she was brought to prison?? Not to mention how no one found it when she was transferred to the mental hospital?! Why go to so much trouble to hide a diary if you feel like you're dead and you have nothing to say!?

Giant eye roll.

I'm sorry - this book just asks too much of the reader - this 'twist' has been done many times before and it only works (and still very poorly) if you overlook all the giant plot holes and ridiculous scenarios.

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Read 170k reviews from the world's largest community for readers. Alicia Berenson's life is seemingly perfect. A famous painter married to an in-demand fas...

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rating: 4.9/5

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In a world divided by factions based on virtues, Tris learns she's Divergent and won't fit in. When she discovers a plot to destroy Divergents, Tris and the mysterious Four must find out wha... Read all In a world divided by factions based on virtues, Tris learns she's Divergent and won't fit in. When she discovers a plot to destroy Divergents, Tris and the mysterious Four must find out what makes Divergents dangerous before it's too late. In a world divided by factions based on virtues, Tris learns she's Divergent and won't fit in. When she discovers a plot to destroy Divergents, Tris and the mysterious Four must find out what makes Divergents dangerous before it's too late.

Review

"Don't Try And Define Me."

I have to say that the producers would have to be stupid not to use Burger again as the director. He did such a great job with this one. I thought I was going to see a film that was mostly aimed at teens. However the story alone makes this far superior to most teen oriented films. In fact this didn't feel much like a teen film at all. The fantasy story is a great metaphor for our current society, it's simply a very relevant film. The directing here was spot on. The story as fun as it is, does have a few holes, sure, but they are easy to look over because they are such small holes. The film simply works as a commentary piece on political philosophy, and as an entertaining action film laced with some romantic tension. In my view this film was far, far superior to the very teen oriented and very one dimensional Hunger Games, and it's certainly more unique as well. Woodley is impressive here, clearly showing the ability to play a very layered and complex character.

8/10

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Women in Science Fiction

Women in Science Fiction

Whether they are exploring the stars, escaping dystopias, or making the world a better place, these women are what science fiction is all about.

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Divergent (2014) ⭐ 6.6 | Action, Adventure, Mystery

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Divergent: Directed by Neil Burger. With Shailene Woodley, Theo James, Ashley Judd, Jai Courtney. In a world divided by factions based on virtues, Tris learns she's Divergent and won't fit in. When she discovers a plot to destroy Divergents, Tris and the mysterious Four must find out what makes Divergents dangerous before it's too late.

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rating: 100/5!!!!

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The Maze Runner (2014) ⭐ 6.8 | Action, Mystery, Sci-Fi

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rating: 4.3/5

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I woke up today thinking that this is probably a bad idea. Why would I want to move to a country that’s on the other side of the globe? Would I survive Canadian high school? These trains of thoughts float in my head as I rush downstairs and see my mom cooking breakfast.

“How did you sleep?” Mom asked casually.

“I had a nightmare about how I missed the first day of school and everyone was laughing at me.” I replied.

“Awww. Don’t worry, you’ll be fine.” Mom comforted me.

“Yeah, I hope so.” I don’t want my mom to worry, but my heart is pounding 100 beats per minute right now.

After eating the delicious avocado toast mom made, I head to school. It’s a beautiful fall day. The leaves are starting to turn red, and it’s starting to get chilly. I take a look at my class schedule. I have Ceramics and PE in the morning, and Science and Social Studies in the afternoon. As I pass through the unknown hallways, many unfamiliar faces flash by, making my stomach filled with butterflies.

“Hey, you’re new, right?” This girl in a black hoodie asked.

“Yeah. I’m Esme. What’s your name?” I replied with a smile.

“I’m Yolanda. Nice to meet you!”

We talk about our classes and notice we have three classes together.  She even invited me to sit with her friends at lunch. This already took a huge load off my mind.

When the bell rang, signaling the end of the second period, Yolanda introduced me to her friends. They welcomed me with open arms, and made me feel like I belonged from the first moment.

“So, why did you decided to move to Point Grey?” Jake asks.

“I just wanted to experience learning in a different environment and make new friends. To be honest, I was really nervous about today, but it all worked out.” I replied, grinning.

Throughout the rest of the afternoon, I navigated the ups and downs with my new friends by my side. We shared laughs and supported each other through uncertainty.

As the clock turns to three, the school day has come to an end. I realized that this was just the beginning of a new chapter filled with laughter, adventure, and lifelong friendships.

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rating: 4.2/5

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Here I am, at the competition that will determine the rest of my figure skating journey. For months now, my alarm has been set at 5am each weekday, interrupting me from my shallow dreams. The early morning drives to the rink unfold in serene scenery, especially under the dawn sky. Despite my constant complaints about morning practices, I feel a sense of satisfaction when I’m the first skater on the ice. As I warm up along the rink's edge, gazing at the pristine, gleaming surface, I struggle to tighten my worn-out skates, the laces stiff and frayed from countless practices.

Underneath this routine lies a deeper meaning for me to prove myself, not just to my coach and parents, but to the ten-year-olds Esme who dreamed of skating on this very ice. That dream was the flickering North Star that guided me through my journey so far.

I try to bury yesterday's struggles deep within, as if tossing a heavy blanket over a scorching fire. I push those memories down, down, down, praying they remain beneath the surface where they can no longer haunt me. But the faint bruise on my cheek tells a different story. I trace its tender edges with hesitant fingertips, hoping it will fade, perhaps even become a badge of honor. But the memory of yesterday’s practice weighs heavily on my shoulder. All I can remember was feeling frustrated during the brutal falls, reminding me how close success and failure are in this tough sport. My coach's voice now echoes in my mind, pushing me to try harder, like a constant drum beat urging me on.

Meanwhile, Coach Ramirez, stands at the edge of the rink, her reassuring presence always calms me. Her brown eyes are keen, never missing any details, yet her critiques are always paired with encouragement. Since she has been a competitive figure skater herself, she understands that this sport not only requires the physical skills but also the mental buildup. Her belief in me anchors my nerves as I prepare to take the ice, knowing that her guidance has shaped me into the skater I am today.

Bouncing on my toes to warm up, the gems on my vibrant blue dress dangle softly, filling the quiet rink with a chime. As the skater before me gracefully concludes their program, a wave of nervous anticipation washes over me. My fingers, legs, and every other part of me seem to lose sensation in the icy air of the rink,  numbed by the cold that seeps through the thin fabric of my dress.

“Esme, just skate like how we practiced. Don’t think too much about the jump from yesterday, okay? Glide in confidently and you will be able to land perfectly. Believe in yourself. You got this! Don’t forget to enjoy it!” My coach walks over and pats my shoulder as she encourages me with a reassuring smile.

I glance up at the bleachers and spot my parents holding a poster that reads “Esme Weng, the forever champion!” I make a silly face and they do one back, easing my nerves off a bit. I draw in a deep breath, feeling their unwavering support radiate from the stands. The arena buzzed with anticipation as I skated towards the center of the ice, my coach’s words echoing in my mind. This was my moment to shine, and with their encouragement, I was ready to give it my all.

“Next on the ice, Esme Weng from Kerrisdale Figure Skating Club!” The announcer’s voice reverberates through the arena,  igniting a chorus of cheers and applause.

As soon as the lights above me shimmer on my face, I find my starting position. I take a deep breath, and the familiar notes start playing.

I start my routine. Each movement flows as if they’re in my muscle memory. The bruise and yesterday’s fall still lingers in the back of my head as my first jump approaches. I force myself to plaster a smile on my face, but underneath it are a thousand doubts swirling in my head. The weight of yesterday’s bruise pulls away my focus. Will I land elegantly with one foot and glide out flawlessly, or will I end up with my butt kissing the ice and becoming the joke of the afternoon?

Suddenly, as I glide into position, the tempo of the music pulses through me, matching the beat of my heart. I take a deep breath, summoning the angels to be on my side, and launch myself into the air. I spin gracefully as planned, my dimple starts appearing on my face, until an unexpected thump reverberates through the rink. Not a moment too soon, I have not only landed with two feet, but with my back against the ice. My butt is on the ice. My dress is wet. My back aches.  I feel an itch in my stomach as if a thousand cameras have captured this vulnerable moment. The music shows no mercy and has no plan on stopping. Why me? Why now? Why here? Nobody deserves the gold more than me! From my weak position on the ice, I catch glimpses of the judges’ faces, their expressions filled with empathy and disappointment. I lie there for what feels like an eternity, staring at the ceiling of the rink. My mind races, trying to grasp the reality of what just happened. The routine I had practiced endlessly, the dreams I had nurtured for this competition, all shattered in an instant with that fall.

For a moment, I consider giving up. Tears flood in my eyes. All I want to do is storm off the rink, scream at everyone, and cry. But I know I have to stay professional. I force myself to stand up, catching up to the music, even though I’m well behind. I push the tears back in my eyes and face the audience again with a determined smile, showing my perseverance. As the music fades and I skate off the ice waving back to the cheering audience, but deep down, feeling frustrated, embarrassed, and disappointed. Coach Ramirez covers me with my skating jacket and comforts me.

"Hey, it's okay. Every skater goes through tough moments. You'll bounce back stronger," she commented reassuringly.

A few seconds later, my parents rushed down the bleachers and hugged me, telling me that I still did a good job because I tried my best.

"You were amazing out there, sweetie. We're so proud of you," Mom whispered, holding me tight.

“Yeah, in my eyes, you were the bravest out there today.” Dad added, joining our group hug.

In that moment, surrounded by their love and encouragement, I realized that this competition, though painful, marked a turning point of my skating journey. The tears and the disappointment reshaped my confidence and determination for this challenging sport. I’ve realized that it’s not about winning, but it’s about growing, learning, and chasing my dreams with a burning passion.

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This is the booklet that was given to the seniors at Granville Gardens. It was used as an instructions booklet/guide.

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Hereditary (2018) directed by Ari Aster, is a masterful supernatural horror film that deeply engages audiences through its intricate storyline and psychological depth. The cast delivers extraordinary performances by capturing the raw emotional turmoil of a family beneath dark, ancestral curses, bringing authenticity to their characters and evoking a sense of dread. In addition, Aster’s attention to detail is evident in the stunning cinematography and thoughtful sound use, which amplify the film’s unsettling atmosphere. Together, these elements place Hereditary as one of the best modern horror films, leaving a lasting impression on its viewers.

In Hereditary, the Graham family is haunted by the tragic and disturbing occurrences following the death of Ellen (Kathleen Chalfant), Annie’s (Toni Collette) mentally ill mother. Set in a suburban home, the film follows Annie, her husband Steve (Gabriel Bryne), their son Peter (Alex Wolff), and their daughter Charlie (Milly Shapiro) as they navigate the complexities of mourning. Each family member turns to different ways to handle their grief, with Annie and Charlie both drawn to the supernatural. As the family grapples with their loss, they begin to experience unsettling events that are linked to generational secrets and emotional trauma passed down from their ancestors. This escalating conflict reveals not only the depth of their family’s dark history and how this generational curse transcends through ancestry, leading to a growing sense of fear and paranoia.

Through its intricate storytelling and strong character development that amplify its themes of generational curses, Hereditary stands out in the horror genre. The sharp, revealing dialogue allows characters to express their internal struggles while subtly hinting at deeper truths. For instance, peculiar habits and perplexing conversations between characters create an unsettling atmosphere that draws the viewers in and emphasizes the characters’ immense fears. As the film progresses, its unpredictable plot twists and escalating tension keep audiences on edge by effectively maintaining suspense as secrets of the family begin to reveal. This pacing expertly alternates between moments of quiet and bursts of heightened suspense, creating urgency and dread. By incorporating relatable supernatural elements, like rituals and disturbing encounters, the film heightens its horror through making the characters’ struggles resonate on a deeper level. Furthermore, the film explores themes like demonic possession, and embedding these occurrences with everyday context enhances their impact on the viewers. This clever blend of psychological depth and tension captivates and lingers in the audiences’ minds. For horror enthusiasts seeking a film combined with suspense and emotional weight, Hereditary is an excellent choice that promises to leave an impression.

The cast of Hereditary delivers breathtaking performances that convey the themes of grief and generational trauma, elevating the film’s emotional depth. Toni Collette shines as Annie, particularly in a scene where she shares about her inner turmoil at a support group. Her delivery captures the sadness of loss and the conflict that arises from her complicated relationship with her mother, making her character feel genuine and relatable. This intensity peaks in a devastating scene that leaves an impact on the audience, perfectly encapsulating Annie’s unstable mental state. Moreover, the interplay between Collette and Alex Wolff heightens the tension in their family dynamic, especially during intense arguments that reveal deep resentment between their characters. In a memorable dinner scene, their sharp deliveries emphasize a troubled bond, while Collette’s heartbreaking line reveals Annie’s regrets. Additionally, the supporting cast also impresses, with Milly Shapiro capturing Charlie’s unsettling calmness and Alex Wolff conveying fear and guilt upon a tragedy through expressive eyes and subtle shift in body language, such as hesitant movements. Ann Dowd’s portrayal of Joan adds layers of complexity as her deceptive warmth masks darker intentions. Overall, the powerful performances not only convey the characters’ inner struggles but also create a dreadful atmosphere that drives the narrative, making the film an unforgettable one.

The cinematography in Hereditary plays a crucial role in creating its unsettling atmosphere, particularly through the strategic use of wide and close-up shots. Wide shots, such as the film’s opening scene featuring a dollhouse that smoothly transitions into Peter’s bedroom, suggest that the characters are like puppets, evoking feelings of helplessness. This theme of supernatural manipulation is further reinforced in moments where the camera lingers on Annie as she works on her miniatures, creating a haunting sense that a sinister force is guiding her actions. These lengthy shots build a slow-burning tension that keeps viewers on edge, enhancing the film’s overall horror. Moreover, close-up shots are helpful in illustrating the characters’ emotional conflicts by effectively isolating them from the outside world in their moments of struggles. For example, an extended close-up of Peter’s face during a pivotal scene allows the audience to witness the gradual shift in his expression as he processes a traumatic event. This technique intensifies the emotional weight of that moment, immersing audiences in his internal conflict rather than relying on action. By combining these elements, Hereditary creates a haunting and captivating experience that draws viewers into the characters’ despair. Through this meticulous cinematography, Ari Aster elevates the film to an exceptional example of psychological horror.

In Hereditary, the incorporation of crescendos, intentional silence, and a persistent buzzing sound is significant for creating tension and amplifying the film’s emotional resonance. Crescendos are utilized skillfully to escalate suspense during critical moments, which creates a connection between the audience and the characters’ emotional turmoil. For example, as a character attempts to perform a spiritual practice, the background music intensifies dramatically, transforming into an overwhelming sound that heightens the stakes of the tense scene. This strategy not only highlights the character’s desperation but also draws the audience into the raw emotions, making them aware of the weight being carried. Furthermore, the use of silence is equally impactful, often before frightening scenes to create a sense of dread. These quiet moments force the audience to focus solely on the visual elements of the film, heightening their anticipation and fear of what might unfold next. The silence emphasizes the characters’ vulnerability, making viewers aware of the tension and emotional weight that goes with their experiences. Throughout Hereditary, a buzzing, ringing sound encapsulates the atmosphere of each scene as well. This sound acts as an emotional undertone to amplify the audience’s anxiety and hint at darker events that lie beneath the surface. As the characters navigate their troubled lives, this design reinforces the feeling of impending dread, making audiences more aware that a climactic event is about to unfold. Overall, the crescendos, silence work, and ringing sound craft a disturbing auditory experience that immerses the audiences in the characters’ psychological struggles, allowing them to feel the weight of grief and anxiety of the film. This strategic sound design enhances the horror elements and allows the audiences to feel drawn into the characters’ predicament.

In conclusion, Hereditary stands out as a remarkable film in the horror genre, showcasing Ari Aster’s skill in crafting a deeply unsettling experience that resonates on a psychological level rather than relying on traditional jump scares. The film explores themes of grief and generational trauma by immersing viewers in the characters’ inner struggles and making them aware of the emotional weight. The exceptional performances, particularly from Toni Collette, allow audiences to feel the intensity of the characters’ pain. With striking cinematography and creative sound design, the film creates an atmosphere of dread that lingers in the viewers’ minds. By prioritizing psychological depth over thrills, Hereditary delivers a haunting experience that ensures its status as one of the best modern horror films.

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Hereditary is a 2018 American horror tragedy film written and directed by Ari Aster, in his feature film directorial debut. It stars Toni Collette, Alex Wolff, Milly Shapiro and Gabriel Byrne as a family haunted by a mysterious presence after the death of their secretive grandmother.

Hereditary premiered on January 21, 2018, in the Midnight section at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival, and was theatrically released in the United States on June 8, 2018. It was a critical and commercial success, making over $80 million on a $10 million budget to become A24's highest-grossing film worldwide.

Annie Graham is a miniatures artist who lives in Utah with her husband, Steve; their 16-year-old son, Peter; and their eccentric and reserved 13-year-old daughter, Charlie. At the funeral of her secretive mother, Ellen Leigh, Annie delivers a eulogy explaining their fraught relationship and her mother's extremely private life. A week later, Steve is informed that Ellen's grave has been desecrated, while Annie thinks she sees an apparition of Ellen in her workshop. At a support group for the bereaved, Annie reveals that the rest of her family suffered from mental illness that resulted in their deaths and how Ellen was a significant figure in raising Charlie.

To attend a party, Peter lies that he is going to a school event, and Annie forces him to take Charlie with him. Unsupervised, Charlie eats cake containing nuts, which she is allergic to, and falls into anaphylactic shock. As Peter drives her to a hospital, Charlie leans out of the window for air. Peter swerves to avoid a dead deer and Charlie is decapitated by a telephone pole. In shock, Peter silently drives home and leaves his sister's corpse in the car for their mother to discover the next morning. The family grieves following Charlie's funeral, heightening tensions between Annie and Peter and causing Annie to behave coldly towards Steve. Peter is plagued by Charlie's presence around the house.

Annie is befriended by a support group member, Joan. Annie tells her she used to sleepwalk and recounts an incident in which she woke up in Peter's bedroom to find herself, Peter, and Charlie covered in paint thinner with a lit match in her hand. Joan teaches Annie to perform a séance to communicate with Charlie. Annie convinces her family to attempt the séance. Objects begin to move and break, terrifying Peter, and Charlie seemingly possesses Annie until Steve douses her with water. Annie suspects that Charlie's spirit has become malevolent. She throws Charlie's sketchbook into the fireplace but her sleeve also begins to burn. She retrieves it and heads to Joan's apartment for advice but Joan is nowhere to be found.

Annie notices that Joan's welcome mat resembles her mother's craft work. She goes through her mother's possessions and finds a photo album linking Joan to Ellen, and a book with information about a demon named Paimon, who wishes to inhabit the body of a male host. In the attic, Annie finds Ellen's decapitated body with strange symbols on the wall written in blood. At school, Peter slams his head against his desk, breaking his nose and is brought home. Annie shows Steve her mother's body and the sketchbook. Annie begs Steve to burn the sketchbook so she can sacrifice herself to stop the haunting, but Steve assumes she has gone mad, accusing her of desecrating Ellen's grave herself. When Annie throws the book into the fireplace, Steve bursts into flames, as Annie is immediately possessed.

Peter awakens to find his father's body. Annie chases him into the attic, which is decorated with occult imagery. Levitating, a possessed Annie beheads herself with a piano wire as naked coven members look on. Peter jumps out of the window. As he lies on the ground, a light enters his body and he wakes up. He follows Annie's levitating corpse into Charlie's treehouse, where Charlie's crowned, severed head rests atop a mannequin. Joan, other coven members and the headless corpses of his mother and grandmother bow to him. Joan, addressing him as Charlie, swears an oath to him as Paimon, stating that he has been liberated from his female host, and is free to rule over them.

Toni Collette as Annie Graham, a miniatures artist.

Gabriel Byrne as Steve Graham, a psychiatrist and Annie's husband.

Alex Wolff as Peter Graham, Annie and Steve's 16-year-old son.

Milly Shapiro as Charlie Graham, Annie and Steve's 13-year-old daughter.

Ann Dowd as Joan, a support group member who befriends Annie.

Mallory Bechtel as Bridget, Peter's schoolmate and love interest.

Ari Aster has an uncredited voice cameo as Annie's boss, who calls to offer support after the tragedy she has been experiencing.

Kathleen Chalfant makes an uncredited appearance as Ellen Taper Leigh, Annie's mother. Aster refers to her as "the sweetest person in the world".

Writer-director Ari Aster embarked on a career in the film industry while a student at the American Film Institute; he scripted and directed two provocative short films, The Strange Thing About the Johnsons and Munchausen, bringing him under the scope of A24. Aster originally pitched Hereditary as a family tragedy that "curdles into a nightmare," careful not to call it a horror film outright. A fan of domestic dramas, Aster incorporated themes of the genre into his script, envisioning a film rooted in family dynamics, trauma, and grief; and The Cook, the Thief, His Wife and Her Lover were works Aster specified as influences on Hereditary. He interpreted the film as two halves which are "completely inextricable from each other": "It begins as a family tragedy and then continues down that path, but gradually curdles into a full-bore nightmare".

The script reflects a real-life incident from 2004 in Marietta, Georgia, in which John Kemper Hutcherson accidentally decapitated his childhood friend and passenger, Frankie Brohm, on a telephone pole, after the latter had leaned his head from the vehicle to relieve the symptoms of his inebriation. Hutcherson then drove home with Brohm's headless corpse in the car and fell asleep, until a passerby, walking with his toddler, noticed Brohm's body still in the truck the next morning and notified authorities.

Toni Collette was one of the first actresses Aster sought for the role of Annie Graham, a miniaturist and the matriarch of the Graham family. Though Collette was reluctant to work on a horror film, the script's grounded approach to the genre convinced her to commit to the project: "He [Aster] just really understood the dynamics in the family, has such an understanding of what it is to be human, what it is to experience loss".

Gabriel Byrne agreed to play the family's patriarch Steve; Alex Wolff, who previously collaborated with Byrne in the HBO program In Treatment was cast as the Grahams' son Peter. Cast in her cinema debut, 14-year-old Broadway theatre actress Milly Shapiro, winner of a Tony Honor for her performance in Matilda the Musical, earned the role of the daughter Charlie. After watching Shapiro's audition, Aster was immediately relieved "'cause I knew the chances were slim that I would find somebody who would be right", having left Charlie's personality more ambiguous than other characters in the script. Ann Dowd portrays grieving mother Joan, who convinces Annie of her ability to contact the dead.

The film began shooting in February 2017 in Utah. The exteriors of the Graham family house and the tree house were shot in Summit County, Utah, and the cemetery scene was filmed at Larkin Sunset Gardens in Sandy, Utah. The school scenes were shot at West High School and Utah State Fairpark, but all other interiors (including both versions of the treehouse) were built from scratch on a sound stage. Since each of the rooms was built on a stage, walls could be removed to shoot scenes at a much greater distance than a practical location would allow, creating the dollhouse aesthetic of the film.

Aster said that during filming, "Alex Wolff told me not to say the name of William Shakespeare's Scottish play out loud because of some superstitious theater legend. I smugly announced the name, and then one of our lights burst during the shooting of the following scene."

Hereditary premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 21, 2018. The trailer for the film was released on January 30, 2018. On Anzac Day in 2018, the trailer for Hereditary played before the PG-rated family film Peter Rabbit in a cinema in Innaloo, Western Australia. According to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald, the Hereditary preview was accidentally shown to family audiences and created a small panic in the theater. The theater was apparently full of families including "at least 40 children".

The film was released in the United States by A24 on June 8, 2018. It was released in the United Kingdom by Entertainment Film Distributors on June 15, 2018.

Hereditary grossed $44.1 million in the United States and Canada, and $36.2 million in other countries, for a total worldwide gross of $80.2 million, against a production budget of $10 million.

In the United States and Canada, Hereditary was released alongside and Hotel Artemis, and was originally projected to gross $5-9 million in its opening weekend, similar to the debuts of previous A24 horror films ($8.8 million in 2016) and It Comes at Night ($6 million in 2017). It was also the widest-ever release for an A24 film with 2,964 theaters, besting the 2,553 of It Comes at Night. After making $5.2 million on its first day, including $1.3 million from Thursday night previews, weekend estimates were increased to $12 million. It went on to debut to $13.6 million, finishing fourth at the box office, behind Ocean's 8, Solo: A Star Wars Story and , and marking the best-ever opening for an A24 title. In its second weekend the film dropped just 49.5% to $6.9 million (compared to the 60-70% fall many horror films see in their sophomore frame), finishing sixth. By July 29, 2018 the film had grossed $80 million worldwide, passing ($78.5 million) to become A24's highest-grossing film worldwide.

On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of 89% based on 368 reviews, and an average rating of 8.28/10. The website's critical consensus reads, " Hereditary uses its classic setup as the framework for a harrowing, uncommonly unsettling horror film whose cold touch lingers long beyond the closing credits." On Metacritic, the film has a weighted average score of 87 out of 100, based on 49 critics, indicating "universal acclaim".

Writing for Rolling Stone, Peter Travers gave the film 3.5 out of 4 stars and called it the scariest movie of 2018, saying "it's Collette, giving the performance of her career, who takes us inside Annie's breakdown in flesh and spirit and shatters what's left of our nerves. Her tour de force bristles with provocations that for sure will keep you up nights. But first, you'll scream your bloody head off." For , A.A. Dowd gave the film an A−, stating that, "In its seriousness and hair-raising craftsmanship, Hereditary belongs to a proud genre lineage, a legacy that stretches back to the towering touchstones of American horror, unholy prestige-zeitgeist classics like The Exorcist and Rosemary's Baby. Remarkably, it's a first feature, the auspicious debut of writer-director Ari Aster, whose acclaimed, disturbing short films were all leading, like a tunnel into the underworld, to this bleak vision." Common Sense Media gave the film four out of five stars and advised that it was suitable for viewers aged 17 or older.

Audiences polled by CinemaScore gave the film an average grade of "D+" on an A+ to F scale. Some publications noted the critics-to-audience discrepancy, comparing it to , , and It Comes at Night, all of which were critically acclaimed but failed to impress mainstream moviegoers.

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Hereditary is a 2018 American horror tragedy film written and directed by Ari Aster, in his feature film directorial debut. It stars Toni Collette, Alex Wolff, Milly Shapiro and Gabriel Byrne as a family haunted by a mysterious presence after the death of their secretive grandmother.

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After visiting the Museum of Anthropology, I noticed that storytelling in Indigenous cultures is essential for preserving their identities, histories, and languages. It’s often passed on through oral traditions during ceremonial activities, such as potlatches. Most of the stories emphasize the interconnectedness between people and nature, promoting a holistic worldview. Most importantly, it’s a communal practice that remains as a tradition while maintaining its cultural essence.

The impact of colonialism on Indigenous communities is devastating. I learned about residential schools where Indigenous children were taken from their families and stripped of their language and culture. They were mistreated and forced to assimilate into Western ways of life and pretend to be something they were not. Indigenous cultural clothing was scorned as “costumes,” further devaluing their heritage. This left scars , but it also highlights the resilience of Indigenous peoples in preserving their traditions against these injustices.

Museums like MOA should play a part in reconciliation by ensuring Indigenous communities are authentically represented and heard. The curaters should educate the public about the impacts of colonialism, celebrate Indigenous resilience, and support cultural reconciliation through programs or events like storytelling with Indigenous elders or carving cedar masks workshops. By fostering interactions between Indigenous communities and Western communities and committing to decolonization, museums can help the journey toward reconciliation.

This visit deepened my understanding about Indigenous cultures and the impact of colonialism. It encourages me to learn more about their histories, acknowledge their territories, and support Indigenous initiatives. I’m now inspired to educate others about reconciliation and advocate for policies that prioritize cultural preservation. These actions can help heal Canada’s past in the journey to reconciliation.

If I could exhibit for MOA, I would highlight the resilience in Indigenous communities. The exhibit would focus on how they preserve their cultures and identities through traditional practices, such as storytelling and art. I would also include interview videos of Indigenous voices expressing their rights to reclaim their heritage. Finally, the exhibit would address reconciliation by featuring stories of initiatives led by Indigenous peoples to educate others and allow Western communities to learn and unlearn their cultures.

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Read 1,380 reviews from the world’s largest community for readers. The newest mystery from the author One of Us Is Lying, the Queen of thrillers, Karen M. …

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A New York Times Bestseller
A Washington Post Bestseller
A Los Angeles Times Bestseller
Named a "Best Essay Collection of the Decade" by Literary Hub
A Washington Post "2020 Holiday Gift Guide" Recommendation
A Minneapolis Star Tribune "2020 Holiday Book Recommendation"
A Book Riot "Favorite Summer Read of 2020​"
A Food Tank Reading Recommendation for Fall 2020
Updated with a new introduction from Robin Wall Kimmerer, the hardcover special edition of Braiding Sweetgrass, reissued in honor of the fortieth anniversary of Milkweed Editions, celebrates the book as an object of meaning that will last the ages. Beautifully bound with a new cover featuring an engraving by Tony Drehfal, this edition includes a bookmark ribbon, and five brilliantly colored illustrations by artist Nate Christopherson. In increasingly dark times, we honor the experience that more than 350,000 readers in North America have cherished about the book-gentle, simple, tactile, beautiful, even sacred-and offer an edition that will inspire readers to gift it again and again, spreading the word about scientific knowledge, indigenous wisdom, and the teachings of plants.

As a botanist, Robin Wall Kimmerer has been trained to ask questions of nature with the tools of science. As a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, she embraces the notion that plants and animals are our oldest teachers. In Braiding Sweetgrass, Kimmerer brings these two lenses of knowledge together to take us on "a journey that is every bit as mythic as it is scientific, as sacred as it is historical, as clever as it is wise" (Elizabeth Gilbert).

Drawing on her life as an indigenous scientist, a mother, and a woman, Kimmerer shows how other living beings-asters and goldenrod, strawberries and squash, salamanders, algae, and sweetgrass-offer us gifts and lessons, even if we've forgotten how to hear their voices. In a rich braid of reflections that range from the creation of Turtle Island to the forces that threaten its flourishing today, she circles toward a central argument: that the awakening of a wider ecological consciousness requires the acknowledgment and celebration of our reciprocal relationship with the rest of the living world. For only when we can hear the languages of other beings will we be capable of understanding the generosity of the earth, and learn to give our own gifts in return.

Indigenous, Nature, science, Native American, traditional ecological knowledge, Natural history, Ecology, botany, plants, essays, environment, spirituality, nonfiction, life sciences, spiritual, teaching, wisdom

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Robin Wall Kimmerer is a mother, scientist, decorated professor, and enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. She is the author of the New York Times bestselling collection of essays Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants.

Robin Wall Kimmerer is a mother, scientist, decorated professor, and enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. She is the author of the New York Times bestselling collection of essays Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants.

American conceptual artist Jenny Holzer is no stranger to addressing the biggest issues of our times through art. In the...

Join Robin Wall Kimmerer at Door County Library for the Write on Door County Reads 2024.

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A New York Times Bestseller A Washington Post Bestseller A Los Angeles Times Bestseller Named a "Best Essay Collection of the Decade" by Literary Hub A Washington Post "2020 Holiday Gift Guide" Recommendation A Minneapolis Star Tribune "2020 Holiday Book Recommendation" A Book Riot "Favorite Summer Read of 2020​" A Food Tank Reading Recommendation for Fall 2020 Updated with a new introduction from Robin Wall Kimmerer, the hardcover special edition of Braiding Sweetgrass, reissued in honor of the fortieth anniversary of Milkweed Editions, celebrates the book as an object of meaning that will last the ages.

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101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think

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101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think

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101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think

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101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think: Wiest, Brianna: 9781945796067: Books - Amazon.ca

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Proposal: Herbs of Hope Project by Integrating Natural Geography and Indigenous Perspectives into City Planning

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Proposal: Herbs of Hope Project by Integrating Natural Geography and Indigenous Perspectives into City Planning

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Introduction:

Urbanization has dramatically reshaped landscapes worldwide, often at the expense of natural ecosystems and cultural heritage. Traditional urban planning has prioritized infrastructure and economic expansion, frequently neglecting the importance of natural geography and the reciprocal relationship with the land that Indigenous communities have long valued. This disconnect has led to environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity, and a diminished sense of community within urban spaces. As cities face growing environmental and social challenges, integrating green spaces into urban landscapes presents a practical and sustainable solution. Communal herb gardens offer a way to revitalize neglected spaces, enhance food security, and reconnect communities with nature. By drawing on Indigenous ecological knowledge, which emphasizes sustainability and stewardship, these gardens can help transform urban environments into thriving ecosystems that support both human and environmental well-being. The “Herbs of Hope” project embraces this integrative approach, demonstrating how urban spaces can foster sustainability, health, and cultural connection.

The Role of National Geography in City Planning:

To build resilient cities, urban planning must go beyond infrastructure development and actively support natural geography. Preserving ecosystems, such as waterways, forests, and green spaces, is essential for environmental health, community resilience, and long-term sustainability. For example, maintaining natural waterways can prevent flooding, while green spaces reduce urban heat and improve air quality. Additionally, respecting the land  minimizes soil erosion and infrastructure damage, making cities more adaptable to climate challenges.

Working with the land rather than against it also provides social and economic benefits, from higher property values to improved public health and stronger community engagement. Cities like Vancouver and Curitiba have successfully incorporated green spaces into their urban planning, creating sustainable transit systems and floodplain parks that serve both environmental and recreational purposes. These examples highlight how nature-based solutions can mitigate environmental risks while enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Despite these successes, many urban areas continue to struggle with balancing development and sustainability. This is where community-driven initiatives, like the “Herbs of Hope” project, play a crucial role. By integrating green spaces within urban centers, engaging community members in sustainable practices, and promoting Indigenous ecological knowledge, this initiative fosters both environmental stewardship and social well-being. Through communal herb gardens, residents can reconnect with the land, learn about sustainable food cultivation, and contribute to a healthier, more resilient city.

Indigenous Perspectives on Land and Sustainability:

Indigenous worldviews emphasize a deep, reciprocal relationship with the land, recognizing Mother Earth as a living entity that sustains all life. This perspective fosters a holistic approach to sustainability, where nature and humans are interconnected, and every plant plays a role within a balanced ecosystem. Inspired by these principles, our communal herb garden will integrate Indigenous ecological knowledge by adopting sustainable planting methods, such as companion planting and minimal disturbance harvesting. These principles align with Indigenous values of stewardship, ensuring that resources are used mindfully and that the land continues to thrive for future generations.

Indigenous medicinal traditions, including the use of plants like cedar, sweetgrass, and sage, demonstrate a commitment to sustainable harvesting. By incorporating these herbs into our garden, we aim to honor these practices and promote awareness of their cultural significance. Our initiative will encourage community members to engage with these traditions through responsible harvesting techniques, fostering a deeper respect for the land and its resources.

Moreover, the guiding principles of Indigenous land stewardship, such as balance, reciprocity, and sustainability, mirror our garden’s mission to create a space that nourishes both people and the environment. Just as Indigenous fishing practices prioritize ecological harmony, our garden will be designed to minimize waste, conserve water, and enhance biodiversity within the community. By embedding these values into our project, we not only create a greener urban space but also acknowledge and learn from Indigenous wisdom, reinforcing a more sustainable and inclusive approach to urban gardening.

A Framework to Action

Our initiative seeks to transform urban spaces into thriving areas of sustainability and community engagement by establishing a program to plant easy-to-grow herbs in communal gardens. We propose partnering with your community center to utilize your existing garden space as a basis for this project, which will promote environmental stewardship, sustainable urban planning, and healthy living within the neighborhood. Our approach will begin with mapping the natural geography of the surrounding area to optimize planting locations and ensure the garden’s long-term viability. Specifically, we are seeking access to a designated planting area, assistance in promoting the initiative to community members, and a point of contact for coordinating logistics.

To make participation accessible to all, we will host a "Getting Started" workshop to introduce community members, regardless of gardening experience, to herb cultivation. The event will focus on growing versatile and easy-to-grow herbs such as basil, rosemary, sage, and mint. These herbs thrive in water-based systems, allowing for initial growth indoors or in small spaces before being transplanted into the communal garden. This hands-on approach ensures strong, healthy plants while making the process interactive and beginner-friendly.

Beyond gardening, we will offer workshops on how to incorporate fresh herbs into daily meals, emphasizing the connection between healthy eating and sustainability. This initiative welcomes participants of all ages, including seniors, who can benefit from the herbs while fostering intergenerational connections and shared learning experiences. All harvested herbs will be freely available to the community, reinforcing the project’s goal of improving access to fresh, nutritious ingredients.

To move forward, we would love to schedule a meeting with you to discuss how we can collaborate effectively. Would you be open to a conversation anytime soon? We are excited about the opportunity to work together in creating a vibrant, sustainable space that enhances both community well-being and environmental stewardship.

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New victims. New betrayals. New secrets. When Cassie H…

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How Spirituality Can Save Us from Global Chaos

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How Spirituality Can Save Us from Global Chaos

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The video explored consumerism, the idea that world peace starts small, and the persecution of Baha’i women in Iran. It highlighted how societal issues are interconnected and contribute to global instability. A key message was that spirituality, rather than materialism, can guide us toward a more peaceful and just world. Consumerism causes environmental destruction and disconnection from meaningful values, while true peace starts with small, everyday actions. The oppression of Baha’i women in Iran is a tragic example of what happens when a society lacks spiritual compassion and respect for human dignity.

This message deeply resonates with my Herbs of Hope project, which promotes sustainability, mindfulness, and community connection. Gardening itself is a spiritual practice, rooted in patience, care, and a respect for nature. By encouraging seniors to grow their own herbs, we are not just fostering sustainability but also nurturing a deeper connection to the earth. In a world consumed by material excess and disconnection, small acts like planting, sharing, and learning together become ways to reclaim a sense of peace.

Through intergenerational gardening, we bridge gaps between youth and seniors, creating a space of unity. Spirituality, in this context, is not just about religion, but about finding meaning through simple, intentional actions that heal both people and the planet. Just as the video suggests that spirituality can be a solution to global chaos, Herbs of Hope serves as a small yet powerful step toward a world where sustainability, peace, and human dignity take priority over consumerism and division.

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How Spirituality Can Save Us from Global Chaos (w/ Payam Akhavan) | Soul Boom

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The Psychology of our Personality: Who Am I and Why?

This project explores the Big Five and Freud’s personality theories, includes my own personality assessment, and reflects on how my culture, family, and experiences have shaped who I am.

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Dear Mom and Dad,

As the school year comes to an end, I’ve been given the chance to reflect on what I’ve learned, how I’ve grown, and the impact that project-based learning has had on me this year. I wanted to take this opportunity to share my experiences with you.

At the start of the year, I set a few personal goals for myself: to explore academic areas I’m interested in, especially STEM, psychology, and sustainability. Each project I took on helped me move closer to these goals. For STEM, I researched and wrote a paper on CRISPR, which opened my eyes to the power of gene editing and its potential in healthcare. In psychology, I completed a self-paced project that focused on self-discovery and explored topics like nature vs. nurture. And for sustainability, I started a passion project with my Helping Hearts club called Herbs of Hope. We partnered with seniors at Granville Gardens Retirement Center, where we planted herbs together and learned through hands-on activities like planting seeds into mason jars. It’s a project that’s still ongoing, and I feel proud of the connection we've built.

Out of all my projects, Herbs of Hope has been the most meaningful and engaging. Sharing my passion for sustainability and food growth with the community, especially with the seniors, reminded me why I care so much about making a difference. It taught me something that traditional classroom lessons couldn’t, which is the power of empathy, connection, and the joy that comes from giving back.

One of the biggest ways I grew this year was through teamwork. As the co-president of Helping Hearts, I took the lead in contacting several retirement homes, setting up meetings, and eventually forming a partnership with Granville Gardens. I coordinated schedules, communicated with the staff, documented our sessions, and shared updates with our team. I’ve learned that I naturally take on an organizing and leading role, and I’ve grown to enjoy the responsibility that comes with it.

However, there were definitely challenges along the way. One of the hardest times was when many senior homes didn’t reply or took weeks to respond. It made me feel discouraged, like something I cared about deeply didn’t matter to others. I pushed past those doubts and kept reaching out, and it eventually led to a rewarding partnership that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Through all of this, I’ve gained many new skills, particularly in research and public speaking. Whether it was writing my CRISPR paper or introducing myself to the seniors and explaining our purpose, I’ve become more confident in communicating my ideas. I also learned how to simplify complex topics so that they’re easier to understand, a skill I used a lot when explaining gene editing and when guiding seniors through planting activities.

Looking ahead, I want to continue doing more community-based passion projects. I’ve learned that I feel most inspired when I’m connecting with others and working on causes I care about. For future projects, I want to challenge myself to reach out to new groups, explore even deeper scientific topics, and maybe even combine my interests in science and sustainability in more creative ways.

Thank you for always supporting me and encouraging me to take on things that matter to me. I’m really proud of what I’ve accomplished this year, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.

With love,

Esme