Tag Archives: community

What Is Confirmation Bias?

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Confirmation bias is one of the most common — and often unnoticed — mental shortcuts that shapes how we think, make decisions, and interact with others. It’s the tendency to favor information that supports our existing beliefs while ignoring or downplaying evidence that challenges them. Whether it’s interpreting news, forming opinions about controversial issues, choosing friends, or making investments, confirmation bias subtly influences how we process the world. Psychologist Peter Wason’s 1960s experiments first illuminated how people naturally seek confirmatory information, and since then, research has shown this bias affects memory, attention, and interpretation. Key signs include ignoring contradictory evidence, remembering only supportive details, and seeking information from like-minded sources. It shows up in politics, relationships, and everyday decisions — and though it can offer a sense of comfort and confidence, it often hinders objectivity and critical thinking. The good news? With conscious effort, we can reduce its effects by staying open to opposing views, welcoming new information, and being aware of our own cognitive blind spots. In a world full of information, curiosity and humility are powerful tools to overcome bias.

Key Facts:

  • Confirmation bias causes us to seek and interpret information that supports our existing views.
  • It impacts attention, memory, and how we perceive information.
  • It shows up in personal decisions, politics, news consumption, and relationships.
  • There are different types: biased attention, biased interpretation, and biased memory.
  • Awareness, seeking diverse perspectives, and openness to new evidence can help mitigate it.

While we can’t fully eliminate confirmation bias — it’s wired into how our brains function — we can learn to recognize it and challenge its grip on our thinking. The more we practice intellectual humility, seek out opposing viewpoints, and stay open to new information, the closer we come to seeing the world as it really is — not just as we wish it to be.

Reference:https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-a-confirmation-bias-2795024?hid=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&did=18887911-20250805&utm_source=verywellmind&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=verywellmind_newsletter&utm_content=080525&lctg=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&lr_input=c24f0f82324dd205a457b795567a3fcc0905f5476a12d769963bdac7cec1fc7a

Rising Together: Breaking Barriers in BIPOC Communities

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Breaking barriers in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities is about more than overcoming individual struggles—it’s about dismantling systemic inequities that have persisted for generations. From limited access to quality education and healthcare to underrepresentation in leadership and the arts, these challenges affect daily life and long-term opportunities. Yet despite these barriers, BIPOC communities continue to demonstrate resilience, innovation, and leadership, paving the way for meaningful change.

Representation is a key part of progress. Studies show that when BIPOC voices are included in leadership, policy, and cultural spaces, outcomes improve for entire communities. Health disparities, wage gaps, and limited access to resources remain pressing issues, but community-driven initiatives have proven to be some of the most effective solutions. Whether through grassroots organizations, cultural arts programs, or advocacy for equitable healthcare, BIPOC leaders are reshaping narratives and building stronger support systems for the future.

True change comes when we all recognize the importance of equity and take action. Supporting BIPOC-owned businesses, investing in education, amplifying diverse voices, and advocating for policy reform are steps everyone can take to help break down barriers. By standing together, we not only honor the strength and resilience of BIPOC communities but also build a society where every voice is valued and every person has the opportunity to thrive.

Jarrelle (jieao-杰遨) Barton

Can’t Focus? Same. These 5 Tips Will Cure Your Brain Fog Stat

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After becoming a parent to twins, sleep became a luxury I could no longer afford—three non-consecutive hours was considered a win. Between midnight feedings, a preschooler’s tantrums, and a demanding full-time job, I was functioning on caffeine and sheer willpower. But what truly made life unmanageable was the relentless brain fog: that spacey, “buffering” feeling that made simple tasks feel like climbing a mountain. Brain fog isn’t just tiredness—it’s a cognitive haze marked by forgetfulness, slow thinking, poor focus, and feeling mentally “off.” According to psychiatrists like Dr. Simon Faynboym, causes range from sleep deprivation and poor diet to stress, illness, and hormonal changes. I once left my wallet at the bank and even mixed up my twins. Yep, it was that bad. But over time, I made small changes—better sleep hygiene, limiting caffeine, walking daily, and being kinder to myself. It didn’t happen overnight, but eventually, the fog began to lift.

Key Facts at a Glance:

  • Brain fog includes forgetfulness, sluggish thinking, and confusion.
  • Common causes include sleep deprivation, stress, dehydration, poor nutrition, hormonal shifts, and medical conditions.
  • Mental health issues like anxiety and depression often contribute.
  • Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, therapy, medical care, or supplements.
  • Prevention includes hydration, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and enough sleep.

Top 5 Tips to Beat Brain Fog:

  1. Prioritize Sleep: Stick to a consistent bedtime routine and aim for 7–8 hours of quality rest each night.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Keep a water bottle nearby and sip regularly—dehydration can dull your brain.
  3. Eat Smart: Fuel your brain with omega-3s, leafy greens, lean proteins, and complex carbs.
  4. Move Your Body: Even short walks or stretching breaks can boost clarity and circulation.
  5. Declutter Your Mind: Use to-do lists, practice mindfulness, or journal to stay grounded and focused.

If you’re stuck in a mental haze, know that you’re not alone—and that brain fog is more than just being scatterbrained. It’s a signal that your mind and body need support. Whether it’s tweaking your daily routine, reaching out to a doctor, or just giving yourself grace, there are ways forward. Be patient with yourself, take small steps, and trust that clarity can return—even after the stormiest seasons of life.

**Maintain a positive mindset-รักษาทัศนคติเชิงบวก**

Reference:https://www.verywellmind.com/brain-fog-8722143?hid=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&did=18623214-20250725&utm_source=verywellmind&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=verywellmind_newsletter&utm_content=072525&lctg=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&lr_input

Standing Together: Addressing Bullying Among AAPI Youth in Schools

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Bullying remains a harsh reality for many students in today’s classrooms, and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) youth often face unique challenges. From being mocked for their language or cultural food to enduring harmful stereotypes and racial slurs, AAPI students are frequently targeted in ways that leave lasting psychological scars. According to national data, nearly 1 in 4 AAPI youth report being bullied in school, often experiencing exclusion, verbal harassment, and even physical intimidation—yet many incidents go unreported due to stigma or fear of retaliation.

Educators and caregivers play a crucial role in creating safer, more inclusive environments for AAPI students. Teachers can incorporate culturally responsive teaching, challenge stereotypes when they arise, and intervene early when they witness bias-based bullying. Parents can create open lines of communication, regularly check in about school experiences, and work with schools to advocate for stronger anti-bullying policies. Peers, too, have immense power—being an ally means standing up, speaking out, and showing empathy when someone is targeted or left out.

Everyone has a part to play in fostering a school culture of belonging and respect. When students feel safe and seen, they thrive. And when communities rally together to dismantle racism and bullying, we build stronger, more compassionate schools for all.

Key Facts:

  • 23% of AAPI youth report being bullied in U.S. schools.
  • Many AAPI students face bullying tied to race, language, and cultural identity.
  • Only a small percentage of incidents are reported or addressed effectively.
  • Bystander intervention by peers significantly reduces bullying incidents.
  • Cultural stigma and pressure to “stay silent” often prevent AAPI students from seeking help.


Creating lasting change starts with listening, learning, and standing up for one another. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or friend, your support can be the difference between isolation and empowerment. Let’s commit to building schools where every AAPI student feels valued, safe, and respected.

Read more at:https://www.cdc.gov/youth-violence/about/about-bullying.html

The Cultural Diversity of Healing: Meaning, Metaphor,and Mechanism

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Healing is a universal human concern, yet the ways in which we heal vary immensely across cultures. Anthropologists have documented diverse systems of healing—from village shamans and herbalists to acupuncture, energy medicine, and spiritual rituals—each offering its own theory of illness, its own patient-healer roles, and its own symbolic actions for recovery. What unites these systems is a shared structure: a defined explanation of affliction, a trusted healer, specific healing rituals, and expectations of wellness. In a world shaped by migration, digital communication, and cross-cultural interaction, these practices are no longer confined to their origins. Today’s clinicians must navigate a kaleidoscope of healing beliefs—not only among immigrants or indigenous populations, but within the broader public, where 20–40% of adults in countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia regularly use complementary and alternative medicine.


At the heart of any healing practice lies the question: Does it work? But what counts as “working” is itself a culturally shaped idea. Recovery might mean symptom relief, spiritual peace, improved family dynamics, or validation of a community’s worldview. Healing often involves metaphors, transformations, and rituals—practices that may not fit neatly within biomedical definitions of effectiveness. With the global spread and commercialization of traditional healing methods, we face new ethical and practical challenges. Healers once held accountable by their communities now operate in marketplaces, where regulatory oversight may be lacking and cultural meaning can be diluted. As traditions hybridize and shift, clinicians and patients alike must grapple with what healing means in a fragmented, multicultural world.


Healing is never just physical—it is social, psychological, moral, and political. As biomedicine increasingly integrates into global health systems, its limitations in addressing the full human experience become clearer. Cultural healing practices often fill those gaps, offering hope, connection, and empowerment where clinical language falls short. Understanding these practices—not only how they work, but why they matter—helps clinicians meet the deeper needs of their patients. Disentangling cultural meanings from physiological mechanisms may help us build a more compassionate, evidence-informed model of care that values pluralism over uniformity.

Reference:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3621226/

Risk and Protective Factors

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Preventing youth violence begins with understanding that no single cause leads a young person to commit or experience violence. Instead, it’s a mix of individual, relationship, community, and societal influences. Risk factors—such as exposure to violence at home, poor academic performance, or associating with delinquent peers—can increase the chances of violent behavior. On the other hand, protective factors—like strong family connections, high academic achievement, or community involvement—can reduce those risks. Identifying and addressing these layers can empower parents, educators, and community leaders to intervene early and build supportive environments for youth. By increasing what protects and reducing what harms, we create safer, healthier communities for everyone.

Key Facts

  • Youth violence is shaped by a combination of factors, not a single cause.
  • Risk factors include poor behavioral control, substance use, and exposure to family or community violence.
  • Protective factors include strong family bonds, high academic achievement, and supportive school environments.
  • Prevention efforts must address multiple layers: individual, relationship, community, and societal.

Preventing youth violence isn’t just about stopping harm—it’s about building hope. Every effort we make to strengthen protective factors and reduce risks helps shape a generation of safer, more connected, and empowered young people. Together, we can move forward.

Reference:https://www.cdc.gov/youth-violence/risk-factors/index.html

The Colors of Resilience: Taiwan’s Rainbow Village and Its Artistic Legacy

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Tucked away in the Nantun District of Taichung, Taiwan, Rainbow Village is more than just a vibrant collection of street art — it’s a living canvas that tells a story of resilience, hope, and the unyielding power of creativity. Originally a military dependents’ village destined for demolition, it became an artistic sanctuary thanks to the tireless brush of Huang Yung-Fu, affectionately known as “Grandpa Rainbow.” His whimsical paintings of birds, animals, and cheerful human figures transformed crumbling walls into radiant symbols of life and joy, turning an abandoned settlement into a celebration of color and imagination.

Beyond its bright facades, Rainbow Village reflects a poignant cultural narrative. The walls whisper stories of Taiwan’s history — from war and displacement to the creation of tight-knit military communities. Huang’s art preserves not just fading structures, but the collective memory of thousands of families who once called these streets home. Each painted figure honors the past, offering both locals and visitors a reminder of perseverance and cultural identity amid modernization.

Today, Rainbow Village stands as both a tourist destination and a cultural treasure, drawing visitors from around the world who marvel at its authenticity and artistic spirit. Huang’s legacy lives on through each brushstroke, a testament to how art can protect heritage, inspire connection, and turn ordinary places into extraordinary landmarks. In every corner of this colorful village, the heart of Taiwan continues to shine.

Reference:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainbow_Village

The Beauty of Cross-Cultural Friendships: Expanding Horizons & Building Bridges

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Friendships that bridge different cultures, languages, and backgrounds offer a unique and enriching perspective on the world. When we connect with people who have different life experiences, we expand our understanding, challenge stereotypes, and develop greater empathy. Learning about another person’s traditions, beliefs, and customs firsthand allows us to see the world from a more inclusive and informed perspective. These friendships break down barriers and foster global awareness, making us more adaptable and open-minded individuals.

Cross-cultural and bilingual friendships also provide tangible cognitive and linguistic benefits. Engaging with a friend who speaks another language or comes from a different background naturally enhances our communication skills and deepens our cultural intelligence. Exposure to different languages, even informally, can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and creativity. Additionally, bilingual friendships can encourage us to learn a new language, making us more effective communicators and strengthening connections across diverse communities.

Beyond personal growth, bicultural and multilingual friendships create stronger, more inclusive communities. These friendships promote cross-cultural appreciation and foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding. In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to navigate cultural differences with empathy and curiosity is invaluable. By embracing friendships that span cultural and linguistic boundaries, we build bridges instead of walls, fostering a world that thrives on diversity, connection, and shared humanity.

Jarrelle ( 杰遨 ）Jieao

How to Know If You Are in a Healthy Relationship

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Relationships are rarely flawless; they’re a blend of both healthy and unhealthy elements. Yet, while we often discuss the warning signs of unhealthy relationships, we tend to overlook what defines a healthy one. Healthy relationships thrive on respect, trust, honest communication, and mutual support. Shifting our focus to these positive aspects helps us cultivate stronger, more meaningful connections.

To evaluate the health of your relationship, consider asking yourself questions like these:

  • Do you have trust in one another?
  • Do you respect each other?
  • Do you support each other’s interests and efforts?
  • Are you honest and open with each other?
  • Are you able to maintain your individual identity?
  • Do you talk about your feelings, hopes, fears, and dreams?
  • Do you feel and express fondness and affection?
  • Is there equality and fairness in your relationship?

Characteristics of Healthy Relationships

  • Trust
    Trust forms the foundation of any healthy relationship, built through mutual respect, dependability, and honest interactions over time.
  • Openness and Self-Disclosure
    Sharing thoughts, feelings, and experiences fosters connection and strengthens trust, while also respecting each other’s boundaries.
  • Healthy Boundaries
    Boundaries protect individuality and ensure mutual respect by defining acceptable behaviors and maintaining personal space and needs.
  • Mutual Respect
    Healthy relationships thrive on respect, shown through active listening, understanding, and supporting each other’s goals and individuality.
  • Love and Affection
    Genuine love evolves from passion to deep affection and trust, with each partner finding contentment in their shared emotional and physical connection.
  • Good Communication
    Open, respectful communication allows couples to resolve conflicts constructively and strengthen their bond.
  • Give-and-Take
    Reciprocity in relationships means giving and receiving support freely, balancing needs while nurturing each other.

Building a healthy relationship requires a balance of trust, respect, open communication, and mutual support. By fostering openness, setting healthy boundaries, and embracing love and affection, partners can create a nurturing connection that grows over time. Effective communication and a natural give-and-take ensure that both individuals feel valued and supported, even through challenges. While no relationship is perfect, focusing on these key elements can help strengthen your bond and pave the way for a fulfilling and lasting partnership.

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/all-about-healthy-relationship-4774802

Narratives of Healing: How Our Elders Guide Us Beyond Borders

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As a Black Buddhist who grew up studying Buddhism, classical Chinese music, and the art of Japanese Bonsai, I’ve often reflected on what it means to embrace traditions that are not rooted in my ancestry. At first, I felt like an outsider, but as I listened to the stories of my elders, I began to see that expression isn’t confined to bloodlines or geography. These stories with struggle, resilience, and love—are more than personal memories; they are bridges. They connect us to our roots, to our shared humanity, and to a deeper understanding of who we are. Listening to our elders allows us to step beyond limits, and into the universal truths that bind us all.

Our elders carry within them the echoes of countless generations, each story a thread in the fabric of our collective being. When I sat with my grandparents and listened to their stories of living in the south, the KKK, the fight for freedom, perseverance, and triumph, I realized these narratives were not just about them—they were about me, too. Their resilience became a lens through which I could make sense of my bicultural journey, blending my own me-ness with diverse philosophies and arts. The wisdom of our elders reminds us that culture is not a static inheritance but a living and breathing dialogue. By honoring their experiences, we create space for healing and understanding, for ourselves and for the communities we touch.

In Buddhism, we often speak of transcending the conventional world, but this does not mean abandoning it—it means transforming it. The stories of our elders are vehicles for that transformation. They teach us compassion, resilience, and interconnectedness, serving as a guide for navigating life’s complexities. When we take the time to listen deeply, we honor their sacrifices and create a legacy of healing for future generations. Their wisdom invites us to bridge divides, to embrace diversity, and to build communities rooted in love and understanding. In this way, the stories of the past become seeds of a more harmonious future.

Jarrelle ( Jie ao ) Barton