Adena M'lynn's Voice

Friendships are like different types of fires. Some are like a flickering candle—small, delicate, but offering warmth in the dark. These are the friendships that may not burn intensely but steady you, their glow always there when you need it. Others are like campfires, bringing people together, offering comfort and light. They take work to keep alive, requiring careful tending. These friendships need attention and care but reward you with moments of shared warmth, stories, and laughter. Then there are bonfires. These friendships consume everything around them—wild, passionate, and all-encompassing. They burn intensely, sometimes too hot, but their energy is undeniable. While their flames may eventually die down, the impression they leave lasts forever. Whether the impression is positive or negative, you will know you’ve been burned. Like any fire, friendships can evolve. Some may fade, while others ignite again when fed. All, in their own way, keep you connected to others and to the

Finding Closure Through Songs of the Past There’s something uniquely powerful about listening to songs from days long gone—the days when we were still struggling to find ourselves. The melodies and lyrics from those times speak to us even now, echoing a period when we weren’t quite sure who we were or where we were headed. And while we sang along to popular songs on the radio, rarely did we stop to understand why those tunes resonated so deeply within us. Today, looking back, those same songs provide an opportunity for reflection and a sense of closure. Music has always had a special way of capturing emotions we couldn’t fully articulate, and for many of us, it became the soundtrack to our journey of self-discovery. Whether it was a song about love, heartache, or rebellion, we felt drawn to these lyrics, often without knowing why. The raw emotions and energy of our youth spilled out through every note, but the meanings were often lost in the confusion of adolescence, insecurity, or p

Silence is a powerful thing. It can bring peace and calm, but it can also cause fear and hide painful truths.  Understanding the dual nature of silence can help us appreciate when it brings comfort and when it can be harmful. Silence as Sacred Silence can be a deeply spiritual experience. Think about the quiet of a peaceful morning when the world is still. For many people, moments like this offer a chance to reflect, pray, or simply breathe. It allows us to step away from the noise and chaos of life, giving our minds a chance to rest and connect with something deeper.  For example, during meditation or prayer, silence can help us feel closer to ourselves, nature, or a higher power. It’s a moment of stillness that brings clarity and calm, like hitting a "reset" button for the soul. In this sense, silence can be sacred and healing, giving us time to recharge mentally and emotionally. Silence as Fearful But silence isn’t always peaceful. Sometimes, it can be a way to co

Ever wonder why bad news seems to dominate headlines and capture our attention? This phenomenon stems from an evolutionary quirk called the negativity bias - our brain's tendency to prioritize and remember negative information over positive. Origins in Survival Our ancestors faced constant threats, from predators to environmental dangers. Those who remained vigilant to potential risks were more likely to survive and pass on their genes. This ingrained alertness to negative stimuli persists today, even though our modern world is generally safer. The Persistence of Pessimism Despite living in relative comfort, our brains haven't fully adapted. We still gravitate towards negative news, finding it more compelling and memorable than positive stories. This bias can lead to an skewed perception of reality, where dangers seem more prevalent than they truly are. Social Dynamics and Gossip The negativity bias extends to our social interactions, particularly in the form of gossip. S

First, I am not Catholic, but I am a Christian. I read all kinds of writings from people I believe are sincere and a voice of hope. I guess I look for wisdom.  In a speech, Pope Francis delivered a powerful and uplifting message about finding happiness and resilience in the face of life's challenges. He reminds us that even though we may have flaws, anxieties, and moments of anger, our lives are incredibly valuable, and we are loved and appreciated by many. True happiness, he says, is not about living without difficulties but about overcoming them with strength and grace. Pope Francis emphasizes the importance of taking control of our own destinies, being grateful for the miracle of life each day, and cherishing our relationships, even when they are not perfect. He encourages us to embrace our inner selves, acknowledge our mistakes, and have the courage to apologize and express our needs and love to others. The Pope's words inspire us to see life as a garden of opportunities, w