Tag Archives: community

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

What are the physical health consequences of tobacco use?

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Cigarette smoking harms nearly every organ in the body and remains the leading preventable cause of premature death in the United States, contributing to an estimated 480,000 deaths annually. Smokers aged 60 and older face a twofold increase in mortality compared to nonsmokers, dying approximately six years earlier. While nicotine itself is not carcinogenic, tobacco smoke contains at least 69 cancer-causing chemicals, making smoking responsible for at least 30% of all cancer deaths. Overall cancer death rates are twice as high among smokers as nonsmokers, with heavy smokers having a fourfold greater risk. Quitting smoking yields immediate health benefits, and depending on the age of cessation, some or all of the reduced life expectancy can be regained.

Key Factors:

  1. Cancer Risks:
    • Lung cancer: Smoking is linked to 80–90% of cases and 80% of deaths.
    • Other cancers: Mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, cervix, kidney, bladder, acute myeloid leukemia.
    • Smokeless tobacco: Associated with cancers of the pharynx, esophagus, stomach, lung, and colorectal cancer.
  2. Lung Diseases:
    • Chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
    • Worsened asthma symptoms in adults and children.
    • Leading risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which is irreversible once developed.
  3. Heart Disease:
    • Increases risk of stroke, heart attack, vascular disease, and aneurysm.
    • Responsible for 40% of smoking-related deaths.
    • Causes coronary heart disease, the leading cause of death in the U.S.
  4. Other Health Conditions:
    • Rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation, impaired immune function.
    • Reduced health-related quality of life in young smokers aged 26–41.
    • Potential link to Type 2 Diabetes through pathways between the pancreas and brain.
  5. Benefits of Quitting:
    • Lung damage repair over time (except in COPD).
    • Improved overall health and reduced risk of smoking-related diseases.



The devastating impact of smoking on nearly every aspect of health—causing cancers, lung diseases, heart conditions, and a host of other ailments—underscores the urgent need to quit. While the damage caused by smoking is significant, the good news is that quitting can lead to remarkable health benefits, including the repair of lung damage, improved quality of life, and a lower risk of life-threatening diseases. Whether you’re a long-term smoker or have recently started, it’s never too late to take the first step toward a healthier future. Seek support from loved ones, healthcare professionals, or smoking cessation programs to embark on this life-changing journey. Quitting smoking not only adds years to your life but also greatly improves the quality of those years—an investment in your well-being and the peace of mind of those who care about you.

**By prioritizing the health and safety of its young residents, Minnesota is investing in a brighter, healthier future for all.**

Reference: https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/tobacco-nicotine-e-cigarettes/what-are-physical-health-consequences-tobacco-use

Office on Smoking and Health (OSH)

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Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable illness, disability, and death in the United States. As of 2021, approximately 28.3 million U.S. adults smoke cigarettes, with over 16 million living with at least one smoking-related disease. Additionally, 58 million nonsmokers are exposed to secondhand smoke. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) leads national efforts to reduce tobacco-related deaths and chronic diseases. Through partnerships and tobacco control initiatives, the CDC focuses on:

  • Preventing youth from starting tobacco use.
  • Promoting smoke-free environments.
  • Expanding programs to support quitting tobacco.
  • Addressing tobacco-related health disparities across diverse populations.



The Office on Smoking and Health (OSH) leads strategic public health efforts to end commercial tobacco use and exposure, striving to provide equitable opportunities for all communities to live free from the disease, disability, death, and social and economic impacts caused by tobacco products. Guided by a vision of a world free from commercial tobacco-related harm, OSH focuses on preventing tobacco use among youth and young adults, promoting quitting, eliminating secondhand smoke exposure, and advancing health equity by addressing tobacco-related disparities. In collaboration with local, state, national, and international partners, OSH expands the science of effective tobacco control, builds sustainable infrastructure for comprehensive programs, communicates timely information to stakeholders, and coordinates policies and strategic initiatives, while fostering global tobacco control through surveillance, capacity building, and knowledge sharing.

Key Activities
The CDC collaborates with decision-makers, partners, health officials, and the public to combat the tobacco epidemic by:

  • Supporting tobacco cessation and quitline services in 50 states, 2 territories, and Washington, D.C., and maintaining the national network of tobacco cessation quitlines.
  • Educating the public about the harms of tobacco use, including through paid media campaigns like Tips From Former Smokers.
  • Conducting and coordinating surveillance, laboratory, and evaluation activities related to tobacco use and its effect on health.
  • Reducing tobacco-related health disparities through 8 national networks working to reduce tobacco use among specific populations.
  • Supporting health systems to improve cessation insurance coverage, remove barriers to evidence-based cessation treatments, and promote use of covered treatments.

Through collaborative efforts with decision-makers, partners, health officials, and the public, the CDC remains steadfast in its mission to end the tobacco epidemic. By advancing science, building sustainable infrastructure, implementing effective policies, and addressing health disparities, the CDC is paving the way for a healthier, tobacco-free future. Together, these actions are critical to protecting lives, promoting health equity, and creating communities free from the devastating impacts of commercial tobacco use and exposure.

**By prioritizing the health and safety of its young residents, Minnesota is investing in a brighter, healthier future for all.**

Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/programs/index.html

School work identified as key stressor for AAPI youth

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Mental health challenges among AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander) youth have often been overlooked due to a lack of research and attention to their unique struggles. A recent study by The Asian American Foundation (TAAF), titled “Beyond the Surface: Understanding Mental Health Among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Youth,” sheds light on this critical issue. The study reveals that academic pressure is one of the most significant stressors for AANHPI youth, driven by cultural expectations linking success in school to upward mobility and respect. This stress is further amplified by the “model minority” stereotype, which imposes unrealistic standards of excellence while dismissing emotional vulnerability. By addressing these unique challenges, the study offers insights into solutions for a group often misunderstood and underserved in mental health discussions.

“The biggest stressor on mental health that youth reported was actually pressure to succeed, both self-imposed and from families,” Dr. Charissa Cheah, lead researcher

Key Facts

Exacerbation by the COVID-19 Pandemic:

  • Heightened mental health struggles during the pandemic.
  • Complicated identity development due to the rise in anti-Asian hate.

Cultural Challenges:

  • Difficulty navigating cultural heritage in a climate of racism.

Stressors:

  • Discrimination and its impact on mental health.
  • Academic pressures contributing to a “perfect storm” of stress.

Isolation and Anxiety:

  • Increased feelings of loneliness and worry among AANHPI youth.

Alarming Statistics:

  • Suicide is the leading cause of death for young AANHPI individuals, per CDC data.
  • One in three AANHPI youth has considered or attempted suicide.

Addressing the mental health challenges faced by AANHPI youth requires urgent attention and action. The compounded pressures of academic expectations, cultural identity struggles, and discrimination, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, have created a crisis that cannot be ignored. With one in three AANHPI youth considering or attempting suicide, these alarming statistics serve as a stark reminder of the need for culturally responsive mental health resources and support systems. By acknowledging and addressing these unique challenges, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and understanding environment where AANHPI youth feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.


面对压力时，要学会呼吸放松。
Learn to breathe and relax when facing stress.

Reference: https://asamnews.com/2024/12/27/beyond-the-surface-of-aanhpi-youth-mental-health-research/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0Oe5d1oc80z-JadHPJuCvh3k2LdlTzZeJHW6kUaPH5VFXwjnpg9aXnmVU_aem_aKVwcfNMD6Tnep0Xa9lLtA

Harmony Between Worlds: A Black Buddhist Artist’s Journey

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Living as a Black Buddhist artist immersed in a bicultural experience is a profound act of self-discovery. My heritage as a Black individual expresses resilience, creativity, and community, while my Buddhist practice offers a framework for mindfulness, compassion, and balance. These two identities do not simply coexist—they enrich and inform each other, creating a unique lens through which I experience this world. Through the teachings of lord Buddha, I’ve come to understand my cultural roots not as a separate identity but as a path in which I cultivate dharma..

As an artist, the bicultural experience manifests in the stories I tell and the mediums I use to tell them. My work is a reflection of both celebration and introspection, merging the rhythms of my heritage with the contemplative silence of my Buddhist practice. Whether through the meditative pluck of the Guzheng or the quiet resilience embedded in my poems, I strive to create art that speaks to the shared humanity between cultures. This process has taught me that self-cultivation is not about abandoning one identity to embrace another but about finding harmony in the tension, allowing each aspect of myself to bloom.

Self-cultivation within this bicultural space is an ongoing practice of loving-kindness toward myself and others. It is about embracing the complexities of my identity without judgment, cultivating wisdom through the lessons of my ancestors, and staying grounded in the present moment. As a Black Buddhist, I see my journey not only as personal liberation but also as a call to inspire others in my community to explore the depths of their identities with courage and compassion. Together, we can honor the beauty of our roots while forging new paths of creativity and cultivation.

Jarrelle (杰遨) Jieao

Youth Violence

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Youth violence is a serious issue affecting young people aged 10 to 24, often manifesting through fighting, bullying, weapon threats, and gang-related activities. It not only harms the victims but also impacts offenders and witnesses, creating a ripple effect of trauma and fear in communities. Understanding youth violence means recognizing its multifaceted nature and addressing it as a shared responsibility. Preventative measures, such as fostering safe environments, promoting conflict resolution skills, and offering support to at-risk youth, are essential in breaking the cycle of violence and building a foundation for healthier, more compassionate communities.

Key Facts

Prevalence and Impact:

  • Thousands experience youth violence daily across urban, suburban, rural, and tribal communities.
  • Homicide is the third leading cause of death for young people aged 10-24 and the leading cause of death for non-Hispanic Black or African American youth.
  • Over 800 young people are treated daily in U.S. emergency departments for assault-related injuries.

Disparities in Risk:

  • Sexual minority teens are more likely to face multiple forms of violence than their heterosexual peers.
  • Black or African American youth are at a higher risk of the most physically harmful forms of violence, including homicides and aggravated assaults.

Economic Costs:

  • In 2020, youth homicides and nonfatal physical assaults incurred an estimated $122 billion annually in costs, covering medical care, lost work, and diminished quality of life (excluding criminal justice costs).

Impact of COVID-19:

  • The economic burden of youth violence increased by 17% in 2020 compared to 2019, reflecting the ongoing challenges exacerbated by the pandemic.

Preventing youth violence is a collective effort that begins with understanding the root causes and risk factors that contribute to it. By addressing systemic inequities, such as poverty, residential segregation, and other forms of racism, we can create environments where all young people—especially those from racial and ethnic minority groups—have the opportunity to thrive. Prevention strategies must focus on reducing risk factors, strengthening protective factors, and fostering safe, equitable communities. Supporting youth as they grow into healthy, empowered adults is not just a moral imperative; it is essential for building a future free from violence and filled with opportunity for all.

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

Marijuana use linked to higher risk of heart attack and stroke

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New research suggests that using cannabis—whether by smoking, eating, or vaping—may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, the study found that cannabis users faced higher cardiovascular risks, regardless of tobacco use or other underlying health factors. Dr. Abra Jeffers, a data analyst at Massachusetts General Hospital, highlighted the growing misconception that cannabis use is harmless, particularly as smoking remains the predominant method of consumption, exposing users to particulate matter. With recreational marijuana now legal in 24 states and its usage nearly doubling since 2002, understanding its health impacts is increasingly critical. The study analyzed survey data from over 434,000 U.S. adults between 2016 and 2020, focusing on cardiovascular outcomes like heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes—even among non-tobacco users and younger individuals at lower baseline risk. Prior research on marijuana’s cardiovascular effects has been limited due to overlapping tobacco use and younger study populations, but this study underscores the potential dangers as cannabis use becomes more widespread.

Key Facts

  • Higher Risk with Any Use: Any marijuana use was associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
  • Frequent Use Increases Risk: Daily marijuana users had 25% higher odds of heart attack and 42% higher odds of stroke compared to non-users.
  • Smoking as Predominant Method: Smoking was the most common way people consumed cannabis, followed by eating and vaping.
  • Increased Odds for Younger Adults: Men under 55 and women under 65 who used marijuana had a 36% higher combined odds of coronary heart disease, heart attack, or stroke, even without tobacco or e-cigarette use.
  • Independent Risk Factor: The elevated odds for cardiovascular issues persisted even in individuals who had never used tobacco products or e-cigarettes.

These findings underscore the importance of understanding the potential health risks associated with marijuana use, particularly as its prevalence continues to rise and perceptions of its safety shift. With smoking remaining the most common method of consumption and frequent use linked to significantly higher odds of cardiovascular issues, it’s crucial for individuals to consider these risks and for healthcare providers to address them in discussions about overall heart health. As marijuana use becomes more widespread, further research is needed to provide a clearer picture of its long-term impact on public health.

Reference: https://www.heart.org/en/news/2024/02/28/marijuana-use-linked-to-higher-risk-of-heart-attack-and-stroke