Clueless Twenties

  In today’s fast-paced digital world, love and relationships have taken on new forms and challenges. With endless dating apps, shifting cultural norms, and a world that’s more connected yet more isolated than ever before, navigating love can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. A recent video from the YouTube channel Unsolicited Advice delves deep into these modern complexities, providing an insightful look into the core struggles people face today. The following analysis will dissect these challenges, delve into the essence of modern love, and contemplate timeless philosophies that shed light on our understanding. Love, as defined in the romantic context by the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is an intense feeling of deep affection from one person to another. Modern love deals with the sense of isolation and solitude associated with the commercialisation of feelings and the negative displays of love and, for comparison, while also tapping into meaningful and transformative forms of...

  Intentional friendships, especially from a Christian perspective, are like a beautifully woven fabric of grace and commitment. In a world where relationships can often feel surface-level and transient, these friendships stand as a testament to a deeper, more purposeful connection. They are not just about sharing common interests or spending time together; they are about walking alongside each other in faith, supporting one another through life's ups and downs, and holding each other accountable in our spiritual journeys. At the heart of intentional friendships is the desire to love and be loved in a way that mirrors the unconditional love God shows us. This love isn’t always easy; it requires vulnerability and a willingness to open up our hearts. It means being there for each other not just in times of joy but also in moments of struggle. It’s about sharing our joys and burdens, praying together, and encouraging each other to grow closer to God. Scripture reminds us of the import...

  Dear Reader, At the end of last year, and better part of this year, this writer came to the realisation that she has been overwhelmed with stress and anxiety. Mostly from unfunctional and casual friendships that she has been holding onto for far too long. So I set out to find wisdom from the only place I trust for guidance, the Bible and prayer. So dive into the fountain of knowledge that is the Bible and prayer, and let go of what is holding you back. Boundaries are essential for maintaining healthy relationships, protecting our well-being, and honouring God’s design for how we should interact with others. Some relationships taint our hearts, and from the heart comes the abundance of life, some cause distraction from worship and in return take our full attention, hence taking the place of God's altar in our hearts. In Proverbs 4:23, Scripture says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” This reminds us that boundaries help protect our hearts fro...

  Dear Reader, A lot of us are deceived by the illusion of perfection on social media. You are told to look a certain way, act a certain way, and be a certain way to fit in. Social media influencers and marketers take the opportunity to manipulate you into buying products in large numbers that you don't need at all. Let's delve into the world of consumerism and consumer manipulation. In the early 18th century, in the countries of north-western Europe, the Industrial Revolution began to transform the economy and shape consumer culture as we know it today. Economies began to expand, and wages rose, leading to an increase in disposable income and the ability to purchase more goods and services. Their spending started a positive economic spiral. Revenue grew, and profits rose in direct proportion to their expenditures. Observers realised by the middle of the 18th century that they were seeing a historic shift, which historians have since referred to as the first consumer revolution...

  Dear Reader, Disguised as tough love, there is mental, emotional, physical, and financial abuse in African homes. Let it be noted that not all African homes are abusive, and what is not mentioned here can be found in all African homes, but we also have to acknowledge that most African homes condone abuse in the name of tough love and discipline. Let's take action to address these issues and work towards creating safer environments for all individuals together. It is crucial to break the cycle of abuse and promote healthy relationships within families. It is time, as Africans, that we address this, so let's address it: For many of us, our first experiences of abuse came from our parents. The toxicity then influenced how we view and treat others in our relationships. Confidence and self worth were broken down, and now you can not seem to recognise yourself out of the cycle of abuse. By understanding and reflecting on this, you can rebuild yourself, recognise your worth, and emb...

  Dear Reader, As per the title, this is going to be a controversial topic and opinion, but one that I hold dear to my heart as it has shaped me into the woman I am today. What is feminism in this modern age and time? This writer, dear reader, has pounded on this question severally. According to Oxford Languages, feminism is defined as the advocacy of women's rights on the basis of equality between the sexes. So what do I mean when I say Western Feminism? I mean feminism that fights for women in western countries and, mostly, the white woman; I mean mainstream feminism. African feminism differs from Western feminism in that the latter focuses on individual rights and is founded on 'I,' whereas the former acknowledges communal aspects that are culturally fundamental to an African society, and its ideologies are based on 'We' (Ubuntu). My feminist journey, however, starts with my mother's struggles and my grandmother's ideologies, plus my father's support...

  Dear Readers, As a child who was not shielded from a lot of the harsh realities of the world, I quickly learned to be independent and self-sufficient. There are certain things that, if I ever have children, will never happen on my watch. Sure, I have no kids only speak from a child's perspective . but I know the importance of protecting their innocence and ensuring a safe and nurturing environment. The harsh realities of mental health as an adult are something I never want my children to experience. So let us dive in: Sleepovers: even if it is at my mother's house or my brother's house, I do not care where it is; my child is sleeping at home. We have created an environment in this society where a father can prey on their child, and as a child who was sexually abused by a relative and all the sleepover stories of rape and sedomy, sorry guys, my child is not sleeping in anyone's house. Let us not forget that other children also sexually abuse kids and groom them . Spiri...