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

 The complete briefing will be available soon. Thank you!

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."