I’m exhausted. Let’s have a coffee break. Let’s have a little chat. 

I’m exhausted. My mind is racing with so many thoughts and ideas, but….but…… But, but…..

I can complain continuously…..

My life is a little bit messy. I need to start planning and doing the things that are most important first. I know. The thing is, how to get it going if it isn’t? 

Don’t worry. I’m not going to bore you with my problems. I’m sure you have enough of your own. Let’s have an entertainment time instead.

I found a picture of me made 100 years ago in Banff, Canada…  I even had a baby face there… So young and skinny…

The time seems to slip through our fingers like sand. One moment, it’s Monday morning, and the week feels full of promise and things to do. Before you know it, the days blur together—family, projects, etc.—and suddenly, it’s Friday. Blink once, and the week is gone, leaving you wondering where all those hours went. 100 years left when I took these photos… It’s a good reminder of how fleeting time can be, encouraging us to make every moment count, whether at work, with loved ones, or simply taking a moment to pause and appreciate the present. 

Time for entertainment or serious discussion: 

Let’s not take things too seriously! Let’s have some fun, or maybe we’ll have a serious conversation. Who knows? However, I am sure that it will be a topic that resonates with many.

I have a couple questions: 

1

In your opinion, do you value people based on their clothing choices and first impressions or it doesn’t matter to you? How important do you think personal style is forming opinions about others? 

In my opinion, social judgments are based on appearances, but it is important to recognize that this is not a true reflection of a person’s character or worth. True relationships are developed through meaningful connections and shared experiences, rather than making judgments on visual appearances. Clothes can be a form of self-expression and personal style, but they should not be the main factor in judging a person’s value.  

However, first impressions can influence how we see others. 

For many people, it is a social norm to judge others based on their appearance, including their choice of clothing and grooming. This can include factors such as cleanliness, polished shoes, hair, and well-maintained and clean nails.  

These minor things may have a significant impact on your look. 

I think people should dress smartly for job interviews, events, and professional meetings, because wearing suitable clothing may help you make a good impression and demonstrate respect, professionalism, and confidence. Also, people should dress appropriately for informal social events or meetings with friends and family. A sloppy person with soiled clothes, dirty shoes, and nails, bad breath, or underdressed may appear disrespectful, rude, or careless. 

I’ll be honest with you: I do judge people based on their first appearance. Perhaps because I am very demanding of myself. I know it’s not right. I have tried to change my viewpoint on this, but so far it’s unsuccessful. However, if I know the person and their character, I don’t care what they look like. 

How about you? What are your thoughts on this topic?  

Also, here are two quotations that I both like: 

“Don’t judge a book by its cover.” – George Eliot (English novelist, poet, journalist, and one of the leading writers of the Victorian era.) 

“Clothes and manners do not make the man; but when he is made, they greatly improve his appearance.” – Henry Ward Beecher (an American Congregationalist clergyman, social reformer, and speaker, known for his support of the abolition of slavery ) 

2

What is better be smart or be sly?  If you had to pick between being smart or being sly, which would you choose?    

This question I asked myself after I read some article and this question stuck in my head. 

I would really want to know what you think.

Here are some pros and cons of being smart and sly in different situations:  

To Be Smart: 

Pros of Being Smart: 

• Smart people are intelligent, rational, logical, and knowledgeable.     

• Ability to analyze complex problems, think ahead, and find innovative solutions.   

• Critical thinking skills that allow for logical decision-making.  

• High level of intelligence and knowledge in various subjects.   

• Respected for their intellectual abilities, talents, and knowledge. 

• Most likely to succeed in academic and professional settings. 

Cons of Being Smart: 

• Vulnerability to manipulation and exploitation by others. 

• Difficulty connecting with people emotionally or personally.  

• Overthinking and analytical paralysis in decision-making.  

• Social insecurity or difficulty navigating personal relationships.  

• Potential for isolation or feeling misunderstood by others. 

To Be Sly: 

Pros of Being Sly: 

• Quick thinking and adaptability in dangerous or unpredictable situations.   

• Strong survival instincts that prioritize self-preservation.  

• Ability to outsmart and manipulate others for personal gain.  

• Street smarts and cunning tactics that help handle tricky situations.  

• Management of personal interests and security in potentially harmful environments. 

Cons of Being Sly: 

• Lack of trust and credibility due to deceitful behavior.   

• A sly person is often associated with cunning, lies, and manipulation.  

• Achieve goals or gain an advantage over others.

• Difficulty forming true and lasting relationships based on honesty.  

• Potential for isolation or confrontation with others who recognize deceptive tactics.
• Risk of moral compromise or ethical dilemmas in decision-making.  

• Short-term may provide benefits, such as getting out of a sticky situation or outsmarting opponents, but it can also lead to mistrust, hatred, and negative effects in the long run. 

So, both smart and sly people have their strengths and weaknesses that can influence their interactions as well as decisions and judgment in real-life situations.  

Which of these two character traits would you choose if you had to choose only one? 

Art Time 

Let’s take a break from debating and dive into the world of art. It’s a place where time slows down, and every color, shape, or line tells a story. Art helps us see things differently and feel things we can’t always put into words. Whether it’s a bright painting, a detailed drawing, or something totally abstract, art gives us a chance to relax and let our minds wander.  

So, let’s enjoy this creative escape and find some inspiration along the way. 

Wat Rong Khun, Thailand 

Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, is a surreal and stunning contemporary Buddhist temple located in Chiang Rai, Thailand.  The temple’s unique white façade, designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, glows in the sunlight, creating a breathtaking sight for tourists. The temple’s beautiful carvings and decorations are filled with symbolism from Buddhist teachings, making it not only a visually appealing site, but also a spiritual experience for many visitors. 

One of the standout features of Wat Rong Khun is its fusion of traditional Buddhist design with modern elements, such as mirror mosaics and pop culture allusions. The temple’s interiors are just as impressive as its exterior, with stunning murals depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology and modern life. 

The presence of skulls in the architecture and artwork of Wat Rong Khun adds a mysterious and perhaps frightening touch to the entire design. There is no specific legend behind it, but many visitors see the skulls as a powerful symbol of mortality and the cycle of life and death. The skulls serve as a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of the existence of life and the unavoidable death. According to Buddhist teachings, looking at death can help people focus on the present moment and live more mindful and compassionate lives. 

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And that’s a wrap! Hope you enjoyed this little coffee break with me. Sometimes, it’s these small pauses that keep us going. Until next time, stay creative, stay inspired, and don’t forget to take a moment for yourself. Cheers! 

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