This question is far from being unknown to many; an echo that has undulated across one’s recollection of memories and will most likely follow them into their next steps of life. It may seem like an odd query to direct toward another person, but in truth, it is hardly unfamiliar to multiracial or “mixed” people. In itself, the query is dehumanising but puts forth a paradox that may dominate the mixed person’s thoughts and settle down amongst various other doubts as they hesitantly tread the lines between their different cultural identities. Although frequently perceived in a positive light, the multiracial identity comes with its own unique psychological stressors, many of which lead to existential isolation—the feeling that your perspective or experiences are not comprehensible to others.
Sri Lanka is still reeling from the consequences of a 25-year-old civil war between the ethnically, linguistically, and religiously different Sinhalese and Tamils. The war, which terminated in 2009, remains an unhealed wound for many whose loved ones went missing, killed, or displaced. Sri Lanka’s president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, is also distrusted by many who harbour resentment towards him over accusations of his war crimes during the civil war when he was the defence secretary. However, Sri Lanka’s recent economic crisis has brought the union of previously divided groups under one Sinhalese flag as protests rage on against the government, which is governed by the Rajapaksa brothers, for their ill-advised decisions leading to a mismanagement of Sri Lanka’s economy and the Covid-19 pandemic. Civilians’ anger and disappointment are directed towards the government’s inaction as Sri Lankans have had to endure months of food, fuel, medicine and essential depletion, as well as frequent power outages, with no hope for amelioration in sight.
“Death is the wish of some, the relief of many, and the end of all.” – Lucius Annaeus Seneca
There are very few things in life that are promised. Just having a dream does not necessarily set you up for success, nor does having stellar grades guarantee you a lavish future basked in stardom and wealth. Nobody is obligated to owe you anything, especially not life itself. Certainly, it can be easy to forget this axiom in life as we trudge through the ebb and flow of our own life. However, buried in our quest to derive some value of meaning in our own lives, we may tend to forget about the present as we gravitate toward the future and its potential. We all believe that the status quo will remain as we selfishly progress with our journey. Yes, in our blinded pursuit, we tend to start taking things (people) for granted until one day, when we lift our heads, and they are no longer there, all that is left behind are the wisps of memories and emotions left behind that seem all too ephemeral at this point.
My wife left a note on the fridge that said, “This isn’t working.”
I’m not sure what she’s talking about. I opened the fridge door and it’s working fine!
A man walks into a magic forest and tries to cut down a talking tree.
“You can’t cut me down,” the tree complains. “I’m a talking tree!”
The man responds, “You may be a talking tree, but you will dialogue.”
Tell me, how did these jokes make you feel? Did you let out a slight chuckle? Or did you just roll your eyes? Of course, everyone has their own unique sense of humour and what they consider can or cannot be joked about, especially regarding more sensitive topics. Nonetheless, if you did give out a chuckle, you may possess a darker sense of humour.
An unwanted gaze, an unpalatable whistle, an unsolicited remark. These seemingly ‘minor’ annoyances are familiar to a large population of Malaysians and can be much more severe than appearances may imply. Though often going unreported and unnoticed, sexual harassment — the act of conducting oneself in an unwelcome and sexual nature towards another to demean their dignity — is much more prominent than expected.
Trigger warning:
The following article contains discussions regarding sexual violence, assault and non-consensual pornography, which some readers may find disturbing or traumatizing. Viewer discretion is advised.
Venturing into the world of murder mystery and intrigue, a legacy that has now become a household name is none other than the famed fictional writer: Agatha Christie. Known for her iconic novels featuring detectives by the names of Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple, Agatha Christie won the hearts of avid readers and remained a best-selling novelist for both mystery enthusiasts and novices alike. With her works influencing many industries and lives, one might question what exactly is the allure of Agatha Christie’s fictional works?
By: Haikal Danial
