9 Novels by Black Female Writers Facing Unjust Censorship

“If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.” – Toni Morrison A staggering 1,835 unique book titles were targeted for censorship in the United States between January and October 2022, with a shocking 47% of these books representing the voices and experiences of LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals.1  As book banning efforts continue to sweep the nation, the works of Black women authors are increasingly under attack. From classic novels to contemporary young adult fiction, these groundbreaking books are being unjustly removed from school and public library shelves.  Here …

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The Rise of ‘Sober Curiosity’ Among Millennials & Gen Z

The younger generations are turning away from alcohol, embracing a “sober curious” lifestyle that’s shaking up the beverage industry.1 Millennials and Gen Z are leading a revolution in drinking habits, opting for mocktails or non-alcoholic beers over traditional boozy options. This shift isn’t just a passing trend; it’s a cultural movement rooted in health consciousness, financial savvy, and a desire for more meaningful social connections. From alcohol-free bars popping up in major cities to the booming market for zero-proof spirits, the sober curious movement is reshaping how we think about socializing and unwinding. But what are the reasons behind this …

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29 Weird Facts That Sound Fake, Yet are Completely True

Have you ever stopped to think about the incredible, unbelievable, and sometimes downright bizarre facts that make up our world? For sure, there are countless astonishing truths that defy our expectations. These 29 facts are just a few examples of the incredible and often unbelievable truths that exist in our world.  That sound fake, but are actually true facts. 1. Banyan Tree Bigger Than Walmart The Banyan Tree near Kolkata, India covers over 14,000 square meters compared to Walmart’s average store size of around 9,750 square meters. This enormous tree, known as the Great Banyan Tree, has a canopy made up …

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17 Phrases Veterans Don’t Want to Hear — What Not to Say

Did you know that fewer than 1% of Americans currently serve in the military? This statistic highlights the growing civilian-military divide in our society.1 A survey by the Pew Research Center found that 84% of post-9/11 veterans believe the public doesn’t understand the problems faced by those in the military.2 Are you unknowingly contributing to this disconnect? Here are the 17 worst things you can say to a veteran and learn how to bridge the gap with more meaningful, respectful dialogue. 1. “Did You Kill Anyone?” It’s hard to imagine anyone asking this question, but it comes up more often …

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18 Walt Whitman Quotes to Awaken Your Soul

Walt Whitman, born in 1819, was a pioneering American poet, essayist, and journalist who revolutionized poetry with his work “Leaves of Grass.” Often hailed as the “father of free verse,” Whitman’s unconventional style and bold themes challenged the poetic norms of his time. Whitman’s influence extends far beyond his era, shaping the course of American literature and inspiring generations of poets worldwide. Despite facing criticism and censorship during his lifetime, Whitman’s work has become an integral part of the American literary canon.  Here are 18 of Whitman’s most stirring quotes that have the power to open your eyes to the …

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15 Things People Get Wrong About Amish Communities

The Amish are a fascinating group often misunderstood by those outside their communities.  With 557 settlements and a population of 345,475 in 2020, the Amish are a considerable part of American life. This number is expected to nearly triple by 2050, reaching around 912,258 people.1  As their population grows, it’s important to clear up some common myths and misconceptions about their culture.  1. Myth: The Amish Reject All Modern Technology 2. Myth: All Amish People Live in Isolated Communities 3. Myth: The Amish are Uneducated & Reject Formal Education 4. Myth: The Amish Practice Strict Dress Codes for Religious Reasons …

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16 Magical Fairy Tales That Have Survived Through the Ages

For centuries, fairy tales have been a cherished part of our literary heritage, beloved by audiences of all ages with their magic, wonder, and timeless lessons. These enchanting stories have been passed down through generations. These tales have undergone countless adaptations and interpretations, yet their core messages and beloved characters remain as captivating as ever. Here are 16 of the most famous and enduring fairy tales that continue to resonate with readers to this day. 1. Cinderella Cinderella, the tale of a kind-hearted maiden who triumphs over her wicked stepmother and stepsisters, has been a beloved story for centuries. With …

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15 Despised Figures from History That Still Haunt Us Today

Have you ever wondered who the most despised figures in history are?  History is filled with individuals whose actions and ideologies have left indelible scars on humanity because of their ruthless pursuits of power, insatiable thirst for conquest, or unwavering commitment to destructive ideologies. Here are 15 of these individuals who have a profound impact throughout the course of history. 1. Adolf Hitler Adolf Hitler, the notorious leader of Nazi Germany, left an indelible stain on human history that’s hard to overstate. Not only did he orchestrate the Holocaust, a systematic genocide that claimed millions of lives, but he also …

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12 Collectibles from the 70s That Could Be Worth Big Money Today

Ah, the 1970s! It was a decade of disco, bell bottoms, and seriously groovy collectibles. While some may reminisce about the era’s cultural milestones, others are cashing in on the nostalgic treasures they kept from their youth. If you’ve got a stash of ’70s memorabilia, you might be sitting on a goldmine. Here are 12 items from the 70s that could be worth a fortune today. 1. Star Wars Action Figures In 1977, “Star Wars” hit the screens and changed the world of sci-fi forever. Alongside the film’s release, Kenner produced a line of action figures that became instant hits. …

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Byron Katie’s Top 10 Insights for a Calmer, Stress-Free Life

In a world where stress and anxiety seem to be at an all-time high, the teachings of Byron Katie offer a unique approach to finding inner peace and happiness. Her method, known as The Work,1 has transformed the lives of many by challenging the very thoughts that cause suffering.  1. The Power of Inquiry: Question Your Thoughts Byron Katie’s method, The Work, revolves around questioning the thoughts that cause distress. This process involves four questions that help individuals examine the validity of their beliefs. By doing so, people can gain clarity and release unnecessary suffering. The four questions are simple …

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