Group celebration – ROMANIA’s NATIONAL DAY 2025

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Meanwhile, once again to all Romanians on December 1^st, 2025: HAPPY NATIONAL DAY, Romania!

December 1, 2025: ROMANIA's NATIONAL Day

Each year, on December 1^st, Romania’s National Day awakens hearts across the Carpathians and beyond, as cities shimmer with tricolor banners and rhythms of historic pride. In the country and abroad, street parades blend ceremonial precision with local festivity, while the echoes of 1918 reverberate in museums, lectures, and spirited scholarly discussions. Citizens, young and elderly alike, partake in cultural exhibitions and folklore performances, their laughter mingling with brass bands and church bells. Across villages and urban centers, shared meals and heartfelt toasts celebrate unity, resilience and heritage. In classrooms and cafés, debates about history and progress enrich minds. Romania honors yesterday while embracing tomorrow, with collective joy and reflective pride.

As we celebrate Romania's National Day,
let us recommit ourselves to building a brighter future for our nation and its people.

To further honor Romania’s National Day, here are some of my thoughts, written directly in Romanian language

To translate this into English or into any other language, please use the automated translator installed at the bottom of the page. Thank you!

În inima toamnei, când frunza aurie dansează tăcut peste câmpiile întinse ale României, sufletul nostru se înalță într-un cor de amintiri și speranțe. Ziua Națională devine nu doar o dată pe calendar, ci o simfonie a istoriei, a jertfei și a visului neîntinat al unui popor care știe să păstreze înțelepciunea străbunilor săi și curajul celor care au luptat pentru libertate. Fiecare colț de țară, de la munții plini de vârfuri albastre, la dealurile molcome și până la câmpurile roditoare, pare să șoptească poveștile eroilor și frumusețea simplității vieții românești. În acest cadru, inimile se deschid ca tezaure de speranță și recunoștință, iar drapelul tricolor pulsează ritmic, unindu-ne prin roșu, galben și albastru într-un legământ invizibil, dar puternic. Ne amintim cu mândrie de tradiții, de folclorul care vibrează prin cântece și dansuri, de literatură și artă care modelează cultura noastră. Astăzi celebrăm nu doar trecutul, ci și prezentul, forța comunităților și visul unei Românii ce își croiește drum prin provocările vremurilor. Să pășim înainte, cu respect pentru rădăcini și cu încredere în viitor, purtând în priviri lumina pe care doar inimile mândre, unite, o pot reflecta. Această zi ne inspiră să fim mai buni, mai aproape de valorile care ne definesc și mai devotați țării noastre dragi, România, în eternul său cântec.

La mulţi ani, România! La mulți ani tuturor românilor de pretutindeni!

● Few Romanian patriotic songs:

Romanian National Anthem: “Deşteaptă-te Române” (RO/EN)  | “Pui de lei”   |  “Treceți batalioane române Carpații“

 “Țara noastră-i țara noastră” (Nicu Alifantis)  |   “Țara de unde vin” (Nicu Alifantis)  

● Brief historical background:

This is one of the most important Romanian national holidays, and it is called the “Great Union Day” or the “Unification Day” (Romanian: "Ziua Marii Uniri") and in many parts of the world it is known as “National Romania Day”.  This special holiday marks the unification of Transylvania, Bessarabia and Bukovina with the Romanian Kingdom in 1918. According to ‘Alba Iulia Proclamation’, all these Romanian regions joined Romania as a country.

The Union marked the country’s history forever, but after that Romania had to pass through many other changes and challenges and some of them included the World War II, the Communist regime and the 1989 Revolution. Despite numerous hardships, it is also appropriate to mention that Romania still looks ahead with sound optimism, but it does not forget its past. 

● My previous greetings on the same theme: ROMANIA's NATIONAL Day – 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018 

End of November'25: ALICE & Friends™ – winter charity

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HAPPINESS, in passing thoughts

Happiness, elusive and subjective, often feels like a prize hidden somewhere in our daily routines. We chase it relentlessly, yet it frequently slips through our fingers. One thought I keep returning to is that happiness is less of a destination and more of a landscape…more of a dynamic, shifting terrain colored by perception, expectation and sincere gratitude. Often, we mistake joy for the accumulation of experiences or possessions, but the truth is more subtle: happiness seems to flourish in awareness, in small attentions and in ordinary moments. 

Classical music: Beethoven, Mozart, Chopin (video clip)

Consider how memory interacts with happiness. A fleeting moment of laughter during a mundane afternoon may feel trivial at the time, but later on it could become a treasured recollection. Conversely, anticipated pleasures often falter when they arrive, failing to meet the elevated expectations we've built in our minds.
Our brains, wired for analysis and comparison, frequently sabotage the simple satisfaction of the present. Perhaps cultivating mindfulness (developing the skill to fully experience each moment without judgment) it might allow happiness to bloom in unexpected ways.

Another neglected aspect is the social dimension of happiness. While personal achievements contribute to feelings of contentment, the richness of laughter, shared silence, or even empathetic listening often outweighs solitary success. Human connection, though sometimes fraught with complexity, forms a foundational element of well-being. Ironically, the moments we consider too small to notice (a friendly comment, an attentive gaze, a morning greeting) often carry disproportionate weight in our sense of flourishing.

Curiously, happiness appears resilient when we embrace imperfection. Perfectionism, while seductive, tends to generate ongoing dissatisfaction. Recognizing our frailties and embracing them with humor and compassion (both for ourselves and for others) releases a subtle, but pervasive, sense of relief that stitches small, cumulative happiness into our lives. This suggests that happiness is as much of a skill as it is an emotional state; a practice of gentleness toward oneself and the surrounding world.

Nature, too, reveals a profound relationship with joy. There is a certain kind of happiness in observing a tree’s resilience, the rhythm of waves, or the gradual shift of leaves through seasons. This is not simply aesthetic appreciation; it is a recognition of continuity and presence that both ground and expand the mind. Such moments provide perspective, reminding us of the transience of trouble and the enduring capacity of life.

Finally, there is the paradoxical insight that actively seeking happiness often obstructs it. Happiness seems to thrive quietly when we focus less on measuring it and more on acting with curiosity, compassion and creative effort. In this sense, happiness feels like a byproduct rather than a goal, an emergent property of living attentively and responsively.

In conclusion, I truly believe that happiness resists simplification. It is intertwined with perception, memory, social connection, acceptance and moments of wonder. As we navigate our lives, perhaps the wisest approach is not a relentless pursuit, but a gentle cultivation; an openness to fleeting moments, an appreciation for the ordinary and an acknowledgment of interconnectedness. If anything, these scattered, random thoughts suggest that happiness may be less a matter of acquiring something external and more about learning to inhabit the spaces inside and around us with curiosity, awareness and gratitude. It is in the quiet, composite layering of thought, action and attention that happiness lights up in small, surprising ways.

Sometimes our happiness comes not from abundance, but from the gentle art of savoring a fleeting moment.

Philosophers’ Café with ALICE & Friends: Autumn 2025

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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: BC Multicultural Week 2025

 ~ ALICE & Friends Circle™ representing Romania at BC Multicultural Week 2025 ~

On Sunday (16 November 2025) our Literary & Socio-Cultural Group,
ALICE & Friends Circle™, has been invited by Culture Chats BC Association to represent Romania at their annual multicultural arts event – occasion which marks the opening of the BC Multiculturalism Week in our province.

Although, officially we are not a performing group or a band,
our cultural delegation was more than ready to take on the challenge.

Our presentation at this event began in a literary manner, with Circle's message for the ongoing BC Multicultural Week 2025. In addition, we brought with us several well-established highlights featuring our old culture – an authentic Romanian song (delivered live by a very talented Romanian youth), we exemplified few beautiful folk costumes of our country (few ladies of our cultural delegation were wearing complete traditional outfits), we brought a little bit of spirituality with us (the present icon is attesting ‘par excellence’ that aspect, Romania being a predominately Christian country), as well as a safe amount of national pride (graciously gathered under the Romanian flag).
At the end of our demonstration on stage, in the closing remarks of my brief speech, I emphasized that in less than 2 weeks, on December 1^st, we will celebrate Romania’s National Day, and I was glad to be able to invite the audience to reach out to us if they wish to learn more about our country, about our customs, about our history and about our lasting existence. 

For this day, before the official start of the program, at a reasonable sound level,
I had playing in the background at our table the “Romanian Rapsody” (composed by our famous George Enescu), while simultaneously I had a slide show running on my laptop, with beautiful images from Romania (emphasizing the concept of “Romania – the fairy tale land”).

For your enjoyment, if you wish to listen the immortal notes of the “Roman Rhapsody”, please follow this quick link. Thank you!

Preparing Circle’s appearance at this event, I enjoyed very much collaborating with Asmita Lawrence (the founding director of this Association) and Craita Isbasescu (a member of their board of directors, of a Romanian descendent).  

For our Circle, this type of involvement goes under the category of Community engagements.

Participating at this event, it was very interesting for me to see how the worlds of literature, culture and human experiences could nicely converge.

Key note speakers, singers, dancers, writers, thinkers, crafters, storytellers came together, talking about their passions, about their lives, about their hopes and dreams, all together illuminating the intricate tapestry of our multicultural society and the interplay between the personal vision and the collective identity. 

Without any doubt (for me personally), it was a very special experience, where these many arts could become both a mirror and a window, reflecting our world while offering vistas into the lives, struggles and triumphs of those who shape it.
 

Also, while at this page, I would like to emphasize a bit the significance of BC Multiculturalism Week in our province.

Every year, BC proclaims the third week of November as the Multiculturalism Week, in order to celebrate the province’s multicultural communities, their contributions, and the way diversity strengthens BC’s society. The celebration underscores values of inclusion, equity and respect, promoting a society free from racism, where all residents have equal opportunities to participate in community life.

BC is Canada’s most ethnically diverse province, home to more than 200 First Nations, Métis, Inuit & urban Indigenous communities, alongside residents originating from over 200 countries. Each year, the province also welcomes more than 40,000 new immigrants, highlighting the ongoing enrichment of its multicultural fabric.

From a historical perspective, BC Multicultural Week is guided by the British Columbia Multiculturalism Act (1993), which aims to enhance cross-cultural understanding and ensure that public policies, services and programs are sensitive and responsive to the multicultural reality of the province.
Ministries and organizations report annually on their efforts to uphold multicultural principles, ensuring alignment with the values of respect, inclusion and equity.  

Different individuals, schools, workplaces and community groups usually participate by hosting cultural displays, performances, educational activities and storytelling events. Social media campaigns such as #BCMulticulturalismWeek encourage residents to share stories and support inclusion throughout the province. Clearly, BC Multicultural Week 2025 is an opportunity for all British Columbians to celebrate diversity, learn about different cultures and acknowledge the contributions of multicultural communities to the province’s social and cultural development.

Wrapping up my briefing here, as we all journey through the week ahead of us (November 17-23'25 is the Multiculturalism Week in our province...BC, Canada),
I invite you to be reminded that each member of our society contributes a unique perspective, drawing from diverse backgrounds, experiences and traditions, while creating a rich mosaic of narratives that speak to both the universal and the particular. Through these lenses, we not only examine the mechanics of arts, but we also uncover the rich socio-cultural currents that act as a catalyst for dialogue, empathy and understanding, bridging temporal and social boundaries.
Sincerely,
Alice 

"No culture can live, if it attempts to be exclusive."  (Mahatma Gandhi)

● Here is the message received from the organizer

● Stay tuned....more visuals will come...

Socializing: Early, Pre-Christmas Reunion 2025

In anticipation of the coming holidays season, on Friday (November 14, 2025) I was super pleased to organize an early, pre-Christmas reunion with a group of dear friends and loyal supporters of our Circle! Needles to say that the joy was in our midst the entire evening!

You know, there is always something magic in gathering together with friends who are on the same wavelength with you, before the world gets lost into the holidays' rush…to me this is a moment to pause, to reflect and to celebrate the connections that remind us what truly matters. This type of reunion is also a celebration of the shared journeys, laughter and challenges that have shaped us over the past year.

Each of my guests tonight brought a story, a spark, a presence that brightened our Circle, and personally I’m very grateful for that because only together, we create a tapestry rich with friendship, kindness and inspiration…threads that become stronger every time we gather. In this space, joy isn’t measured by gifts or glitter, but by the warmth of being together, knowing that even in a bustling world, these moments anchor us. Once again, to all my friends tonight: thank you for being by my side!

Gifts of time, attention, kindness and beautiful friendships are surely the basic ingredients of a blessed life!

PS:
In a not-too-distant future I will be back with a much more detailed photo collage, but for now I'm just posting this beautiful group photo, which eloquently reflects the beautiful atmosphere we all enjoyed this Friday evening.

November 11, 2025: REMEMBRANCE Day

This year, on Remembrance Day (November 11, 2025), we pause in solemn reflection to honor those who gave their lives in service to our nation and for the ideals of freedom and peace. Their courage and selflessness remind us that liberty and security are not inherited without sacrifice, and that the tranquility we often take for granted has been secured by their unwavering commitment.

As we stand in remembrance, let us allow their legacy to guide us toward responsibility and compassion, recognizing that our actions today are shaped by the freedoms they defended. Wearing a poppy, observing a moment of silence, or sharing their stories are not mere rituals…they are affirmations that their valor continues to inspire and that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

May this day strengthen our resolve to uphold the values for which they fought, to live not only in gratitude but with purpose, and to ensure that every generation remembers the profound cost of freedom. Lest we forget….

“A single life given for others echoes through generations…listen to that echo and be inspired.”

● CANADIAN highlights, filled with words of respect and...remembrance...
- The solider behind 'In Flanders Fields' (short documentary done by CBC News, and published under 'The National')   |   “In Flanders Fields” (youth choir)

- “In Flanders Fields”, by John McCrae (poem recited by Leonard Cohen)
● ROMANIAN highlights, filled with words of respect and...remembrance...
- An old Romanian patriotic song (Corul Armatei Române – “Pui de lei“) | Another well-known Romanian patriotic song (“Treceți batalioane române Carpații“)
- A short documentary called “Romania“

● My previous greetings on the same theme: REMEMBRANCE Day – 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019

NOVEMBER – the falling leaves & the coming frost

November…Jazz music (video clip)

NOVEMBER (the 11^th month of the year in Gregorian calendar) marks the time when the vibrant hues of autumn leaves begin to fade into the crisp air, inviting us to appreciate both the beauty that is surrounding us, as well as the moments that truly matter.

By many, November is often seen as a transitional period between the vibrant fall and the festivities of the coming winter, significant not just for the changing seasons, but also for the cultural and emotional significance it holds for many.

In November the last remnants of colorful foliage cling to the trees and the air turns colder, inviting cozy sweaters, warm beverages and (in many households) the scent of cinnamon. In essence, it is a month that historically marks the beginning of the holiday season, with Thanksgiving overshadowing the month with gratitude, food and extended family gatherings.

However, as we further reflect on November, it is also essential to acknowledge the contrasts it brings; it is a juxtaposition of harvest and preparation for the winter months ahead. In various cultures, November represents a time of honoring memories and traditions. In the West, for instance, it brings Veterans Day (a profound acknowledgement of those who served). In other countries and different cultures, the month if filled with various celebrations meant to remind us about the rich tapestry of beliefs around life and death, about love and loss.

The celebration of such traditions during this month deepens our appreciation of community, lineage and shared experiences. Thanksgiving, held on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States, embodies the spirit of gratitude. During this holiday, many gather with loved ones, share meals and express their thankfulness for the blessings in their lives. In Canada, Thanksgiving Day is in October.

On the other hand, given the significance of this concept, the momentum of thankfulness can extend beyond just one day; it can transform into a month-long practice. Notably, November is also National Gratitude Month, providing additional reasons to reflect on the life's positives.

Engaging in gratitude practices can take many forms; from keeping a gratitude journal (where one writes daily appreciations) to simply sharing moments of thanks with friends and family, the implications of gratitude are far-reaching. Studies have shown that expressing thankfulness can boost moods, improve relationships and even alleviate depression. So why not take this month to focus on the good, rekindle connections and express admiration for those around you? 

Also, as November continues to unfold, as I've mentioned before, it signifies the transition from fall into winter. The days shorten and the air becomes cooler, encouraging us to adapt to the changing environment. It's a time of reflection and preparation for the colder months ahead. In many regions, it is also a period where the last harvests occur, including pumpkins, squash and root vegetables. The beauty of November lies in its invitation to slow down and appreciate indoor comforts. It’s the perfect time to delve into baking, cooking heartwarming meals and cozying up with your favorite book or movie. Seasonal activities like visiting farmer's markets or planning indoor craft nights with friends can enhance November's experience. It’s a month that encourages both indoor coziness and outdoor exploration.

We all noticed time and time again that November is synonymous with a large array of comforting foods that evoke warmth and nostalgia; from rich pumpkin pies to hearty soups and stews, the culinary traditions of this month give us a chance to engage our senses. Recipes featuring seasonal ingredients like sweet potatoes, grains and apples are abundant at this time of year. Hosting potlucks or gatherings centered around such dishes can foster camaraderie and joy. Whether it's a traditional Thanksgiving feast or an informal dinner celebrating the harvest, these meals are a testament to the richness of sharing food with loved ones.

As we juggle holiday preparations and the stress that often accompanies this time of year, November can also serve as a reminder to prioritize self-care. The days may get shorter, but focusing on personal well-being helps mitigate the potential feelings of gloom that winter might bring.

Taking time to enjoy the changing environment through walks or hikes can invigorate the spirit, while quiet practices can help anchor thoughts during busier days. Sharing tips for maintaining self-care practices or hosting wellness challenges around gratitude and kindness can also encourage community engagement.

November is not just about reflection; it's also an opportunity to prepare for what lies ahead. With a few weeks left until December, many start to consider their aspirations for the upcoming year. This month could be an ideal time to set personal or professional intentions, declutter spaces both mentally and physically, and realigning future goals. Sharing insights about goal-setting or reflecting on the past year’s experiences (both good and bad), fosters personal growth and prepares individuals for their journeys ahead. Emphasizing the significance of starting the new year fresh (both in mindset and environment) could be very transformative.

Wrapping up my brief thoughts here, I would like to say that November is a month steeped in warmth, reflection and preparation; it showcases the richness of gratitude while inviting us to embrace change, share comfort and nurture our well-being. As we indulge in deep-rooted traditions, express thankfulness and look forward to what lies ahead, November can truly be a profoundly enriching experience.

So, let us welcome November…let’s savor its flavors, cherish our memories and carry the spirit of gratitude with us into the following months. Whether through family gatherings, culinary adventures, or finding moments for self-care, each person has the opportunity to make this month resonate deeply in their hearts, one cozy moment at a time. Embrace the essence of November and allow its lessons to guide you through the holiday season and beyond!

"November is the month to remind us to be thankful for what we have and to prepare for what is to come."

Alice’s Book Club – AUTUMN session of 2025

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Benefits of READING BOOKS in 2025

In an age defined by pervasive digital technologies and the ceaseless flow of information, the act of reading books might appear, to some, to be something super old-fashioned, of a long pastime, a vestige of an earlier era. Yet in 2025, reading books remains an indispensable tool for cognitive, emotional and societal enrichment, providing profound benefits that extend far beyond the superficial consumption of information. While digital media has accelerated access to knowledge, the sustained focus, interpretive engagement and deep reflection offered by books deeply cultivate skills, experiences and perspectives that remain uniquely human.

Here I will do my best to briefly explore the multifaceted benefits of reading books in 2025, integrating several insights from psychology, neuroscience, education and social theory, at the same time examining why, in a world where attention is increasingly fragmented, books retain their transformative power.

● Cognitive enrichment and intellectual development
One of the most compelling benefits of reading books these days lies in their ability to stimulate cognitive development and to sustain intellectual vitality. Extensive neuroscientific research unequivocally demonstrates that the human brain thrives on activities that demand sustained attention, complex analysis and pattern recognition. Unlike short-form digital content, which often encourages skimming and superficial engagement, books require readers to comprehend extended narratives, to track multiple threads of argument and to integrate diverse pieces of information over time; this is a deeply interactive process, which strengthens neural networks associated with memory, attention and reasoning.
Moreover, the act of reading challenges cognitive flexibility and abstract thinking. When readers engage with fiction or philosophical dissertations, they navigate alternative perspectives, anticipate consequences and infer different motivations, exercises that enhance problem-solving skills and executive function.
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly capable of handling factual retrieval, analytical computation and predictive modeling, the uniquely human capacity for nuanced interpretation and ethical reasoning becomes even more vital. Reading books cultivates these capabilities by exposing readers to ethical dilemmas, moral ambiguity and the subtle interplay of cause and effect in human behavior.
Educational research in contemporary pedagogical theory also confirms the importance of sustained reading for academic achievement and lifelong learning.
Many studies indicate that regular exposure to complex texts improves vocabulary acquisition, grammatical mastery and conceptual understanding.
In multilingual societies or regions experiencing rapid educational innovation, such as Vancouver and broader Canada, books provide structured cognitive scaffolding that complements digital learning resources, fostering deeper comprehension and critical engagement rather than simple repetitive memorization.

● Emotional intelligence and empathy
Beyond cognitive benefits, reading books significantly cultivates emotional intelligence and empathy, capacities critical for navigating the increasingly interconnected social and professional landscapes of 2025. Fiction, in particular, facilitates what psychologists refer to as “theory of mind” development (which is the ability to infer others’ thoughts, feelings, and perspectives). Through immersive engagement with characters’ inner lives, readers practice empathy in a controlled, reflective environment, enhancing their capacity for real-world interpersonal understanding.
In a world characterized by global mobility, multicultural interactions and extensive digital social networks, such skills are invaluable. Consider the empathetic understanding required in professional domains such as healthcare, education, diplomacy and virtual collaboration across continents. Reading literature that portrays diverse experiences (such as: historical novels depicting societal struggles, contemporary narratives addressing cultural plurality, or speculative fiction exploring futuristic societies) helps readers internalize perspectives far beyond their immediate lived circumstances. In doing so, books function as bridges to other cultures, political contexts and ethical frameworks, promoting not only interpersonal empathy but also cross-cultural sensitivity.
Furthermore, reading provides a profound tool for emotional regulation and mental resilience, an aspect of heightened importance in 2025, amidst persistent societal stressors including climate anxiety, political polarization and the psychological impacts of intensive technology use. Engagement with literature can function as a form of narrative therapy; by observing characters confront adversity, readers gain cognitive models for coping with their own challenges.
Psychological studies have illustrated that regular reading contributes to stress reduction, decreases depressive rumination, and increases mindfulness – a calm, considered awareness that prepares individuals to respond to internal and external pressures with deliberation rather than reactivity.

● Creativity and imaginative expansion
The ability to imagine alternatives, to generate innovative solutions and to think beyond empirically observable realities has never been more essential than these days. Technological advancement demands creativity not only in artistic fields but also in scientific invention, entrepreneurship and policy design. Reading books nurtures this capacity by immersing readers in worlds shaped not by algorithmic prediction but by human imagination. Imaginary worlds, complex plots and unconventional ideas foster cognitive flexibility, encouraging readers to consider scenarios outside immediate sensory experience or algorithmically determined logic.
Engagement with both fiction and nonfiction expands conceptual horizons. While science fiction and fantasy explore possibilities of future technology, social structures and ethical dilemmas, historical biographies, philosophical treaties and essays provide rich material for speculative reasoning rooted in empirical patterns. 

The interplay between imagination and knowledge cultivated through reading enhances divergent thinking, a skill critical to innovation (a capacity that cannot be fully outsourced to artificial intelligence). Even in professions where AI (artificial intelligence) can model data, simulate outcomes or optimize processes, human creativity remains a driving factor in the generation of novel concepts, artistic expression and ethical nuance.

● Societal awareness and civic engagement
Books also allow for a deep societal understanding, fostering informed and reflective citizenship, a principle of particular relevance in 2025’s complex socio-political landscape. Societal challenges such as technology ethics, climate adaptation, global migration and social justice require citizens to engage thoughtfully with evidence, history and competing perspectives. Reading real books (not merely social media posts or fragmented news) cultivates a measured, reflective approach to social issues. Nonfiction works detailing historical precedent, economic mechanisms, political theory or ecological research equip readers with analytical frameworks capable of interrogating contemporary events with nuance and depth.
Moreover, literature often serves as a mirror to society, inviting critical examination of systemic structures, cultural dynamics and human behavior. By fostering reflection on these subjects, reading enhances civic literacy, social consciousness and participation in public debates. In democratic societies such as Canada, where multiplicity of opinion, respect for diversity and informed participation are valued, books empower citizens to move beyond reactive engagement toward considered judgment. Readers who engage with diverse texts are better positioned to contribute meaningfully to dialogues, to advocate for inclusive policies and to navigate contentious social arenas with intellectual rigor and ethical discernment.

● Digital complementation vs. cognitive immersion
Critics of traditional reading sometimes argue that digital content (with multimedia features, instant feedback and interactivity) provides a superior learning environment. While digital technologies offer remarkable tools for education and entertainment, they often encourage superficial interaction and task-switching, fragmenting attention and reducing long-term retention. In contrast, reading books demands sustained attention, critical reflection and narrative tracking over extended stretches – conditions that cognitive science identifies as essential for durable learning and deep comprehension.
In our days (in 2025), hybrid literacies have emerged, blending digital engagement with sustained text-based reading. Audiobooks, digital e-readers and interactive annotations do not diminish the benefits of reading; rather, they enhance accessibility, particularly for audiences with disabilities, linguistic diversity or geographic isolation. Yet, the fundamental benefit remains cognitive immersion: the focused mental engagement that strengthens memory pathways, fosters analytical reasoning and supports metacognitive awareness of one’s own thought processes.

● Personal identity and lifelong learning
Reading books also serves as a cornerstone for personal identity formation and the pursuit of lifelong learning. Through books, individuals encounter role models, philosophical frameworks, moral challenges and creative possibilities, contributing to shaping of values, self-conception and aspirations. In the era of abundant data, reading books provides a refuge for an independent thought …an arena in which one chooses engagement, arbitrates meaning and interrogates assumptions without external guidance or digital influence.
Lifelong reading nurtures continuous intellectual growth, ensuring adaptability in a world where career trajectories, social norms and technological landscapes evolve rapidly. Individuals who cultivate a habit of ongoing reading develop agility in assimilating new information, coherence in understanding complex systems and resilience in confronting uncertainty. Books offer cumulative wisdom: historical perspective, scientific theories, artistic vision and philosophical inquiry, all of which are essential for preserving adaptability, discernment, and self-directed growth in 2025’s dynamic environment.

As I wrap up here my rather brief dissertation on this matter, I would like to conclude by saying that benefits of reading books in 2025 are profound, enduring and truly multifaceted. Beyond the simple accumulation of knowledge, reading enhances cognitive abilities, fosters emotional intelligence, stimulates creativity and cultivates societal awareness.
Books provide a sanctuary for deep thought, a laboratory for moral experimentation and a canvas for imaginative exploration.
In an era dominated more and more by digital technology, the sustained engagement demanded by books not only preserves foundational human capacities (such as: attention, reflection, empathy and creative reasoning), but also amplifies them, equipping readers to navigate an increasingly complex world with agility, discernment and ethical grounding.
As a personal practice, reading remains a transformative habit: it shapes how we think, how we feel and how we interact with the collective tapestry of human experience. While digital media provides powerful tools for efficiency and instant connection, the value of reading books endures because it cultivates uniquely human faculties: the ability to reflect deeply, empathize fully, imagine unfettered possibilities and engage responsibly within society.
In a world of accelerating change, reading is both anchor and sail – an avenue to understand the present, navigate complexity and envision the future.
Books are more than relics; they are instruments of human flourishing.
In 2025, embracing the act of reading is an affirmation of intellectual autonomy, a cultivation of inner depth and a commitment to the enduring power of thought, imagination and empathy. As digital landscapes evolve, the benefits of reading books remain not only relevant but essential: a practice through which individuals can sustain wisdom, foster resilience and preserve the hallmarks of human insight in an age defined simultaneously by information abundance and cognitive challenge.
In embracing books, we invest in ourselves, in our communities, and in the very continuity of reflective, ethical and imaginative humanity.
Books remind us that amidst technological acceleration, the slow, deliberate act of reading remains an unparalleled conduit for growth, understanding and the enduring enrichment of the human spirit.

"Today a reader, tomorrow a leader."  

October 2025 – Message for THANKSGIVING Day

As the crisp Vancouver autumn further envelops us, we pause to reflect on the Canadian Thanksgiving this year…a day enriched not only with culinary delights, but also with a profound sense of gratitude. Beyond the bountiful tables and warm gatherings, Thanksgiving invites us to consider the historical and cultural tapestry that shapes our shared celebrations…from the traditional harvest practices to contemporary expressions of community and familial appreciation. Let us embrace the reflective calm of autumn, the warmth of connection and the responsibility of conscious thankfulness.🍁

Wishing you all a sincere, mindful and joy-filled Thanksgiving Day! 

Also, to all my dear friends (old & new, closer or more distant), collaborators (occasional or recurrent) and at large sympathizers of ALICE & Friends Circle™ many thanks for your ongoing support throughout the almost 8 (eight) years of existence of our literary and socio-cultural group! 

Please do know that your loyalty is valued and your presence is truly appreciated! 

● My previous greetings on the same theme: Thanksgiving Day – 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018

Autumnal contemplation on GRATITUDE

Gratitude (often described as the quality of being thankful and the readiness to show appreciation for and return kindness) is a profound human experience that transcends cultural, social and temporal boundaries. Though sometimes overshadowed by the immediacy of daily concerns, the practice of gratitude holds transformative potential for individuals and societies alike. In a world increasingly dominated by material pursuits, professional pressures and digital distractions, understanding and actively cultivating gratitude could enrich our emotional lives, foster deeper interpersonal connections and enhance our overall well-being.

Many studies demonstrate that at the foundation of gratitude lies an acknowledgment of interdependence. Human life is an intricate network of reciprocal relationships, where our achievements and joys are indistinguishably linked to the support and care of others. From the nurturing guidance of parents and educators to the courtesy extended by neighbors and colleagues, gratitude invites us to recognize the contributions of others and the broader context within which we exist.

Extensive psychological papers corroborate the vital role of gratitude with mental health and emotional stability.
Several researchers demonstrated that individuals who practice gratitude regularly report higher levels of subjective well-being, life satisfaction and optimism. Gratitude functions as a cognitive reframing tool, allowing individuals to shift focus from deficiency and loss to abundance and presence. In moments of stress or adversity, gratitude acts as a buffer, fostering resilience by helping people identify and appreciate positive aspects amid challenges. Daily practices such as journaling one's blessings, verbal expressions of thanks, or just simple reflective pauses to acknowledge the immutable value of ordinary experiences can yield profound psychological benefits over time.

Beyond the personal advantages, gratitude serves as in important social function, reinforcing communal bonds and mutual trust. When expressed sincerely, gratitude strengthens social cohesion by encouraging reciprocal kindness, enhancing generosity and mitigating the corrosive effects of envy or resentment. Well documented anthropological observations reveal that in various cultures, ritualized expressions of gratitude (from communal feasts and ceremonial offerings to the everyday courtesy of acknowledging someone’s effort) play a crucial role in maintaining harmony within communities. On a micro-level, a simple “thank you” holds the power to nurture relationships, reminding us that acknowledgment itself is a form of moral and emotional currency capable of sustaining respectful and empathetic human interactions.
Interestingly, gratitude also reshapes our perception of time and temporality. By focusing attention on what is present and already given rather than perpetually chasing what is absent or future-oriented, gratitude grounds us in the moment. Mindfulness research highlights this consonance, revealing that grateful attention heightens present awareness and reduces dwelling on regrets or anxieties. In doing so, gratitude allows individuals to savor experiences fully, acknowledge the significance of small joys and cultivate an integrated sense of past achievements and current fulfillment. The awareness that life (quite fleeting and delicate) offers special moments for appreciation, renders gratitude not merely as a moral duty, but rather as a conduit to enriched consciousness.
In our modern society (which often emphasizes individual achievement, material accumulation and comparison), gratitude offers a countercultural mode of engagement. Social media and consumer culture frequently amplify desires and perceptions of scarcity, fostering dissatisfaction. In contrast, cultivating gratitude anchors us in recognition of sufficiency and relational richness. It combats the distortions of envy and entitlement, promoting psychological calmness and reinforcing recognition that happiness is frequently emergent from relational and communal realms rather than from solitary success or accumulation. Without any doubt, gratitude could become a corrective lens, helping people recalibrate values toward deeper human flourishing.

On the other hand, scientifically speaking, the neurological and physiological correlates of gratitude substantiate what literature and philosophy have long intuited. Neuroimaging studies reveal that gratitude activates brain regions associated with reward processing, social bonding and emotional regulation, namely the medial prefrontal cortex and the anterior cingulate cortex. Consistent practice of gratitude has been linked with reduced stress hormone levels and enhanced parasympathetic activity, suggesting a tangible bidirectional influence between the cultivation of this emotion and bodily well-being. This interface between mind, emotion and physiology exemplifies the deeply integrative role of gratitude in holistic health, further validating its centrality in daily life.

Wrapping up, I could safely say that gratitude is a multifaceted construct of profound significance in contemporary life, and it fosters emotional and psychological well-being, strengthens moral and social bonds, enhances resilience and cultivates mindful engagement with the present. Through literature, philosophy and empirical research, the transformative potential of gratitude emerges consistently: it is both a reflection and a determinant of human flourishing. By acknowledging interdependence, reorienting attention toward abundance and translating recognition into action, we embrace gratitude as a vital practice intrinsically woven into the fabric of meaningful living.
Ultimately, gratitude is not merely an abstract virtue; it is an active, daily commitment to perceiving and honoring the manifold gifts of life, relationships and experiences …an enduring and essential companion on the journey of existence. Through consistent cultivation of gratitude, individuals enrich their inner lives and strengthen the social threads that bind communities, allowing the ordinary and extraordinary alike to shine with significance and respect. In a world prone to distraction, urgency and comparative anxiety, gratitude provides both refuge and guidance …a serene yet powerful compass toward a life that is fully appreciated and deeply interwoven with the lives of others.

Gratitude is the foundation of a virtuous and meaningful life.

POEM: “The beauty of autumn” (by Alice)

POEM: “The beauty of autumn”

(poem composed by Alice V. - all rights reserved)

Crimson leaves drift softly to the ground,

Whispers of the wind the only sound.

Golden light through branches streams,

Touching the earth with gilded dreams.

Crisp air dances, cool yet kind,

Awakening the heart and mind.

Shadows stretch as daylight wanes,

A gentle hush falls over plains.

Pumpkin scents and smoky skies,

Nature paints where wonder lies.

Eyes behold the fleeting flame,

Autumn’s beauty calls my name.

Classical music for autumn (audio)