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You can’t scroll away from poverty and homelessness
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This winter break, I visited my parents’ native country, India– Bandra, Mumbai to be specific. I have been there many times, and I always look forward to my trips for the delicious food, awe instilling skyscrapers and the warm smiles of my family. Driving from the airport to my grandparents’ home and walking into…
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Family traditions keep memories alive
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My childhood was full of magical traditions filled with family and joy. Recently, I turned 17-years-old, and I realized just how much of my childhood has passed me by. So many of my old traditions have now turned into beloved memories of the past. So much of what I looked forward to as a…
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Men have an advantage in the dance industry
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The dance industry is one of the most competitive entertainment fields, and boys and men have the upper hand. Over the past nine years, I have spent countless hours dancing, auditioning and watching performances, and I routinely notice that boys have more opportunities than girls because of how few male competitive dancers there are…
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December birthdays are overshadowed by the holidays
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At first glance, it seems that being born in December would be a lot of fun, but you would be very mistaken. Once Halloween ends, everyone and their mother starts celebrating Christmas. Even though I do enjoy the holiday and all of the fun it brings, I would enjoy having my birthday separate from…
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Maintaining neutrality is a privilege
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Although the election has come and gone, political discourse amongst Americans is here to stay, for better or worse. I, like many others, noticed that my social media feed was filled with content surrounding people’s thoughts on the election once the results were announced on Nov. 6. However, amongst political postings from Democrats and…
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Pets teach children important lessons of grief
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I have never known a life without a pet. My earliest memories include my two dogs, General and Kukui, who left a lasting impact even though they are not with us anymore. Now, seven years later, as I welcome new pets into my life, I find myself comparing them to the high standard that…
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A friend to all is a friend to none
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I remember when I was a child, I loved to spend my time on the playground during my lunchtime break at school. I recall the many times before leaving the classroom that my teacher would remind my classmates and I to include each other in our activities, whether that be on the swings, slide…
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Technology is the thief of childhood
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As high schoolers with adult responsibilities and looming futures, we often turn to nostalgia for a sense of comfort, longing for simpler times when our brains were not nearly as full. And yet, nostalgia is an ever-changing concept as each generation progresses. Our idea of childhood is completely different from that of our parents,…
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When seasonal depression clashes with holiday cheer
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The weather has a powerful impact on our daily life. It influences our schedules, outfits, transportation and most of all, our moods. For most, the holidays are a time to reconnect with family members and to bathe in the seasonal decor for a few months before the warm weather comes creeping back. It is…
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Social media ruins random acts of kindness
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I am sure everyone loves a random act of kindness, but unfortunately, the rise of social media has led to the degradation of genuine ones. These unexpected actions from another person usually provide a spark of human connection and joy in times of need. These deeds are not a new occurrence, and the rise…