What Messes with Your Head
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Ruminating on results
I just looked at my grades for last semester. I take my grades super seriously. Well, actually, I guess I took my grades super seriously because all my results are in now and my GPA isn’t going to change anymore.
Best of: Christmas films
Christmas films are very important to me. Both the good and the bad (in fact, sometimes the bad are the most fun). One of my favourite things about Christmas is the ritual of watching new additions that inevitably appear on streaming services like Netflix but, mostly, re-visiting the old classics. It’s no coincidence that, even in Australia, we dream of a snow-covered Christmas, of drinking hot chocolate around the fire, of singing carols, and of wearing warm jumpers. Over the years, we’ve learned from what we see on screen, from the romance, the magic, and the sentimentality that infuses the Christmas film genre. So, in honour of that genre, here’s a list of my very favourite Christmas films.
Giving money to people who ask for it?
You’re approached on the street by someone who asks for money. Do you give it? Do you adamantly say no? I quite often find it an ethical dilemma.
Christmas traditions
As someone who dislikes change, when I find something that works, I stick with it. I think that’s partly why I’m so big on Christmas traditions. To be clear, I’m not talking about throwaway Christmas activities like eating mince pies. I’m talking specific, intricately-planned, and carefully sequenced traditions.
Eco-anxiety, the psychological effects of climate change
People care about the planet and the environment. Most people recognise that we live on planet earth and rely upon a stable environment, so when seemingly little climate action takes place and the headlines fill with stories of a ‘climate emergency’, there is a huge toll on the mental health of individuals. This is the rise of Eco-anxiety.
[Read more about Eco-anxiety, the psychological effects of climate change]
Christmas culture!
For those who like to get into the Christmas spirit, these are my Christmas Culture recommendations based on my entirely subjective and undeniably #basic opinions.
Accepting eco imperfection
When I first decided to change my planet killing ways, I was shocked at how difficult it was. I couldn’t step foot in a supermarket without being overwhelmed by the amount of plastic that surrounded me. I felt so guilty when I didn’t bring my keep cup to the local café, or when I forgot my eco-friendly fruit and veg bags at the supermarket. I would’ve hated to be the person who served me and put through all the loose items in my trolley.
Christmas traditions
How do you celebrate Christmas (if it all)? What kind of traditions do you have? Can you still practice these in adulthood? I love the Christmas season. I love the weather, the seasonal produce, and the atmosphere. Most of all, I love celebrating Christmas with family and friends. My family has some quirky Christmas traditions. To be honest, some of them are what some people may consider ‘childish’, but I don’t give a damn, and I’m still going to do them anyway. Here’s some of my favourite Christmas traditions that are guaranteed to give you a happy holiday.
I need to be alone
Sometimes, in social situations, I start to feel very overwhelmed. My body gets very tired and I feel on the verge of tears. I can’t think properly. I get irritated at the smallest thing someone says or does. What is wrong with me? I wonder. Then I realise that the feeling is familiar. I am socially exhausted, and I have been in this situation many times before. All I really need is to be alone.
