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You have the power to own your data if you choose

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BY NAKITA YOUNG

Some of us share our lives with many people and some are extremely private. If you are a person that uses social media then your life is being shared and analyzed not only by the people you know but by companies that want to sell you stuff and even governments that want to know the kind of person you are.

Data collection has become a huge industry and though you may think that you have nothing to hide; it is becoming increasingly important to conceal your identity and habits online. The more time you spend online, the more data is being collected on you and that data is worth big money.

Now that governments and corporations have AI technology to scan your face, hold medical records, record you on a camera or track your location, it’s important to know that all of these things will be used against you as the technology rolls out.

Some look at the technocratic roll out as security, but in reality all of it is just a limitation of the freedom we once had. It can seem like a daunting task to limit your use of technology or your interactions with it, but once you have an awareness you will be able to make more informed decisions about what you are willing to share and with who.

Opting out is your main line of defence when it comes to protecting your privacy. Social apps like Facebook and Instagram state in their terms of use that the information on your devices is being collected through those apps and even shared with government agencies. Being unaware when you are giving out your information puts your life in a more vulnerable situation where things you may not have even thought of could be used against you.

We’ve seen people get threatened, and locked up for posting about protests on Facebook, and many being censored from sharing information. Even though you may not be protesting, it should concern you that your social actions could one day have a huge impact on your livelihood, similar to the social credit system in China.

With the Corona era, we are now being asked to share our medical information to travel. Something that used to be private between you and your family doctor is now being used against you to limit the freedom you once had. Choices you make now have a big effect on your futures. The things you choose to accept now will have permanent repercussions. Just because the government implements something, it does not mean that it’s best for us and that we must accept it. Push back and choosing to opt out against data collection and data discrimination. It is necessary in protecting our rights.

Our governing systems are changing, but we do still have choices and maybe more than ever. We are used to having a central authority take care of us, but now have the resources and technology to take care of ourselves without government institutions.

Decentralized systems and groups provide alternative solutions to giving up your rights or information in order to participate in that economy. New decentralized social networks like Float.app, Minds and Odyssey give the power back to the user by not collecting and selling your data with the added plus that you also get paid for your interactions.

Community groups like freedomcells.org are creating regional groups where like-minded people are sharing resources and building self-sustainable, intentional communities. Crypto currency is providing income and form of payment that can be private and untaxed if you wanted to use money in that way.

It may seem that the only way to move into the future is by giving up all we have for the sake of safety and security, but this is just not the case. Giving up all your information especially to the government puts us in a very vulnerable position to be taken advantage of. Researching, connecting with your community and making smart informed decisions about what information you share about yourself will protect you far more than any government regulation or tracking system. You have the power to own your data if you choose to use it before it is taken.

Mind | Body | Soul

Why Don’t Relationships in Canada Last Anymore?

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In recent years, there has been a noticeable decline in the longevity of relationships in Canada. This trend has left many Canadians pondering the reasons behind these fleeting connections. While there are several factors at play, this article will explore some key aspects that have contributed to the transformation in relationship dynamics.

A Culture of Individualism

One of the most significant factors influencing the decline in long-lasting relationships is the rise of individualism in Canadian society. This cultural shift has led to a greater emphasis on personal goals and achievements, often at the expense of romantic relationships. As a result, people may prioritize their careers, hobbies, or friendships over their romantic partners, which can lead to a lack of commitment and, ultimately, the end of the relationship.

The Impact of Technology

The rapid growth of technology has dramatically altered the way we communicate and form connections. With the advent of social media and dating apps, the process of finding a partner has become increasingly easy. This phenomenon, dubbed “swipe culture,” has led to a focus on choice when it comes to forming new relationships. You can find the niche you want and meet a sugar daddy in Canada .

Consequently, people may be less willing to invest time and effort into fostering a deep, meaningful connection, resulting in a higher likelihood of breakups.

Changing Gender Roles

The evolution of gender roles in society has also played a part in the decrease in relationship longevity. As women continue to gain greater independence, they are no longer reliant on men for financial stability or social status. This shift has empowered women to pursue their own interests, which can sometimes conflict with traditional relationship expectations. As a result, some couples may find it difficult to navigate the new landscape of gender roles, leading to tension and, in some cases, the dissolution of the relationship.

The Rise of Casual Relationships

In addition to the factors listed above, there has been an increase in the prevalence of casual relationships, including friends with benefits, hookups, and non-monogamous arrangements. These types of relationships often prioritize physical intimacy over an emotional connection, which can be unfulfilling and ultimately unsatisfying for many individuals. As a result, people may find themselves in a cycle of short-lived relationships, never quite achieving the depth of connection that they desire.

A Shift in Priorities

Lastly, societal expectations surrounding relationships have changed significantly in recent years. There is now less pressure to settle down and start a family at a young age, with many individuals choosing to prioritize their education, career, and personal growth instead. This shift in priorities has led to a delay in serious commitment, with people waiting until later in life to enter into long-term relationships. Consequently, the relationships formed during this period of exploration and growth may be shorter-lived and less stable.

Finding Balance in a Changing Landscape

While it’s clear that the factors influencing relationship longevity in Canada are complex and multifaceted, it’s important to remember that it is still possible to build meaningful, lasting connections. To do so, individuals must be willing to invest time and energy into their relationships, prioritize open communication, and remain adaptable to the changing dynamics of modern society.

Embracing Vulnerability

A key aspect of building strong, lasting relationships is the ability to be vulnerable with one’s partner. By sharing personal experiences, feelings, and fears, individuals can foster a deep emotional connection that forms the foundation for a long-lasting bond. Embracing vulnerability can help to counteract the superficiality often associated with modern dating, allowing couples to create a more meaningful partnership.

Nurturing Emotional Intelligence

Developing emotional intelligence is another critical component in forming and maintaining strong relationships. By understanding and managing one’s own emotions, as well as empathizing with the emotions of others, individuals can create a more harmonious and supportive environment within their relationships. This level of emotional awareness can help to diffuse conflicts, promote understanding, and ultimately contribute to a longer-lasting partnership.

Prioritizing Quality Time

In the face of increasing individualism and technology-driven communication, it’s important for couples to prioritize quality time together. By setting aside dedicated moments for deep conversation, shared experiences, and personal growth, couples can strengthen their bond and build a solid foundation for their relationship. Quality time can serve as an antidote to the superficial nature of “swipe culture” and help ensure that relationships are built on genuine connection.

Fostering Mutual Support

As gender roles continue to evolve, it’s essential for couples to adapt and provide mutual support to one another. This means recognizing and valuing the unique strengths and contributions of each partner, regardless of traditional gender expectations. By creating a partnership based on mutual respect and understanding, couples can navigate the changing landscape of gender roles and maintain a strong, lasting connection.

Cultivating Trust and Commitment

Finally, trust and commitment are fundamental to any successful long-term relationship. By demonstrating reliability, consistency, and dedication to one’s partner, individuals can cultivate a strong sense of trust within their relationship. This foundation of trust is crucial for fostering a sense of security and commitment, which can help ensure the longevity of the partnership.

Embracing the Journey

While it’s true that relationships in Canada may not last as long as they once did, this does not mean that meaningful, lasting connections are unattainable. By focusing on building emotional intelligence, embracing vulnerability, and fostering trust and commitment, couples can navigate the shifting dynamics of modern society and cultivate relationships that stand the test of time. Ultimately, the journey of finding and maintaining love is a deeply personal and transformative experience, one that requires adaptability, patience, and an open heart.

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Mind | Body | Soul

Rejection may hurt, but it’s not the end of the world

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Photo Credit: snbc13.com

BY SYDNEE WALCOTT

While some people can handle rejection well and will move on to someone who will reciprocate their feelings, others resort to being disrespectful, because they do not know how to handle rejection well.

Occasionally, there seems to be a news story on someone — usually a girl or woman — getting attacked or killed because they did not reciprocate someone else’s feelings towards them.

The most recent case happened on January 15th, 2023, when Jamea Jonae Harris, a 23-year-old mother, was shot and killed for rejecting the romantic advances of 21-year-old Darius Miles, a University of Alabama student and basketball player.

Harris, her boyfriend, and a cousin, who is a student at the University of Alabama, stopped to get some food as they were on their way home from a night with friends when another car pulled up beside them, and Miles began to flirt with Harris.

Harris turned down Miles and let him know she had a boyfriend. Miles did not take too kindly to the rejection and handed a gun to his friend Michael Lynn Davis, 20, who walked up and fired shots into the other car killing Harris.

Harris’ boyfriend (the driver), shot back in self-defence. One of the suspects was struck and suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Miles and Davis were arrested shortly after the shooting and charged with capital murder.

Upon learning of Miles’ involvement in the shooting, both the school and its athletic department released a statement saying he is no longer a student and athlete with them.

Harris’s story is one we have seen far too often. Some boys and men have issues with taking “no” for an answer, and think their needs and desires are more valuable than those of girls and women due to their patriarchal mindset.

This mindset can make boys and men think they can: insult, assault, or kill a girl or woman for turning down their advances.

In response, some girls and women may lie about their relationship status to avoid

getting victimized for rejecting an advance. It may not be kind to lie to others, but it’s a step many have resorted to for safety reasons.

Boys and men need to understand that no one is obligated to be with them just because they show interest, and if rejected by someone, they need to move on instead of resorting to verbally or physically attacking a girl or woman.

There are a lot of fish in the sea. If one person doesn’t show interest, someone else will.

Everyone deserves love. However, people must accept that rejection can happen as you search for love.

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Mind | Body | Soul

Kids are supposed to be off limits; Negative comments about celebrity children getting out of hand

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Photo Credit: Rihanna's TikTok

BY SYDNEE WALCOTT

As an adult, you should never disrespect a child in any way, shape, or form, but some adults need to be given that reminder.

On May 19th, 2022, Rihanna gave birth to her first child with her boyfriend, ASAP Rocky. Since the birth of their son, fans have been curious to see how their firstborn looks. The wait was over on December 17th, 2022 when Rihanna posted a TikTok of their seven-month-old son.

When a celebrity shares a picture or video of their infant child, many will show excitement and share positive messages when they finally see the first glimpse of a celebrity couple’s infant child, but there will always be people who will take their negative opinions to the internet to speak about innocent children instead of just keeping their hurtful comments to themselves.

History repeated itself once again when Twitter users appeared to show no remorse as they made tweets — that have since been made private, about the couple’s infant son’s appearance and even called the child ugly.

These comments have reminded many of what people have said about Beyonce and Jay-Z’s oldest daughter, Blue Ivy Carter.

Since Blue Ivy’s birth, we have seen memes and posts about her hair and features. We have seen: a petition urging Beyonce and Jay-Z to comb their daughter’s hair, Karruehe Tran making a joke about her hair on BET’s 106 & Park, two journalists mocking her appearance, and Saucy Santana’s old tweets on her hair have resurfaced.

It’s already bad enough that one innocent child has endured so much negativity at a young age. We don’t need to see the same happen to any more children.

It is sickening to see adults speak negatively about a child who cannot defend itself. When these children grow up, they may come across negative comments and posts that were made about them when they were small.

Just imagine how hurt those children will feel when they come across those tasteless posts.

What I find to be mind-boggling is that some of these people who have made negative comments about a celebrity’s child also happen to be parents.

For parents who have said something negative about someone else’s child; imagine how you would feel if that was your child came across a nasty post another person made about them.

No one should ever be subjected to mistreatment in that fashion or any other, especially when they are children.

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