Mental health in a chaotic world: Why we’re all struggling more than ever

 

Anxiety disorders affected an estimated 359 million people worldwide in 2021, making them the most prevalent mental health problem.

Mental health has always been a delicate part of the human experience, but today’s world amplifies every stressor in ways previous generations never had to face. We live in an age of constant noise—digital, emotional, social, and informational. As soon as we get up, we are bombarded with notifications, news, opinions, and expectations.

 

Seldom do our minds get the quiet time they require to recharge. Our neural systems are kept on high alert by this constant stimulation, which makes it more difficult to think properly, have a good night's sleep, or feel grounded. Simultaneously, the speed of modern life has increased beyond the capacity of our brains.

 

According to productivity culture, we should constantly strive to do more, accomplish more, and better ourselves. By showcasing carefully chosen glimpses of other people's lives, social media creates an additional layer of pressure that makes us feel like we're lagging behind even when we're trying our hardest.

 

As a result, we have a persistent sensation of inadequacy, a silent conviction that we are insufficient, and increasing fatigue from attempting to keep up. This chaotic society also contains a deep sense of loneliness. Although we are more connected than ever, it is now more difficult to find true human connection.

 

Many people feel alone even when they are surrounded by others because deeper conversations that promote emotional well-being are often substituted by digital interactions. In the absence of substantial support networks, everyday challenges feel heavier, and times of crisis become much more overwhelming.

 

Lastly, there is an unavoidable background hum of anxiety brought on by global uncertainty. There is a perception that the world is changing more quickly than we can adjust due to political unrest, economic volatility, ecological concerns, and rapid technological advancement. Even though these problems don't directly impact us on a daily basis, they

 

Recognizing our surroundings and granting ourselves permission to seek solitude, connection, and compassion in a world that never provides them freely are key components of understanding this rather than placing the blame on ourselves.

 

Nowadays, mental health problems affect people of all backgrounds, and anxiety and sadness are on the rise globally. Systemic issues, including unstable housing, stagnating earnings, and income inequality, aggravate the crisis and directly lead to a rise in anxiety and depressive symptoms.

 

Particularly in developing countries, where emotional anguish is frequently a reaction to unfavorable social circumstances rather than an inherent flaw, social determinants including poverty, unemployment, violence, and institutional corruption are potent causes of unhappiness. 

The medical approach frequently pathologizes typical emotional reactions to adversity, deflecting focus from structural remedies like better social welfare, education, and economic opportunity, even as mental health awareness has increased.

 

Reduce anxiety and manage the overwhelming mental noise in today’s world

 

Experts advise combining mindfulness exercises, cognitive techniques, and environmental changes to manage and lessen anxiety in the excessive mental noise of today's world. Recent guidance emphasizes the importance of grounding techniques and intentional self-care to counteract the constant stream of thoughts and external stimuli that fuel mental distress.

 

To relax the nervous system, engage in mindfulness and deep breathing exercises. Methods like a body scan meditation or a 60-second breathing cycle (inhale for four counts, hold for four, expel for four) can help shift attention from worried thoughts to the present.

 

To stop recurring or upsetting thinking patterns, employ distraction and mental reset techniques like the five-second rule (count down from five and change attention) or playing a straightforward mental game. By establishing limits on screen time, social media, and notifications, which can increase internal mental noise, you can reduce your exposure to information overload.

 

Examine professional assistance, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy, or exposure therapy, which have been shown to be effective in treating anxiety associated with overthinking and noise sensitivity. 

To lessen sensory overload in stressful situations, create a relaxing physical space using devices like earplugs, white noise machines, and noise-canceling headphones.

 

Under the thumb of white-collar criminals, justice remains elusive for Black people

 

The Black man in Belgium does not have access to justice, exactly like in the United States of America. 

Justice remains elusive for Black people in the United States due to deeply entrenched systemic racism embedded across all stages of the criminal justice system. Racial disparities are well-documented and not accidental but rather rooted in a history of oppression, discriminatory policies, and biased decision-making that disproportionately targets Black individuals.

 

From policing to sentencing, Black people face higher rates of stops, arrests, pretrial detention, and harsher sentencing compared to white individuals, even when controlling for offense type and criminal history. Black men, who comprise about 13% of the male population, make up approximately 35% of those incarcerated, and one in three Black men born today can expect to be incarcerated in their lifetime, compared to one in six Latino men and one in 17 white men.

 

The origins of modern policing trace back to slave patrols designed to control and capture runaway enslaved people, establishing a legacy of surveillance and violence against Black communities. This history continues today through practices such as racial profiling, with Black individuals being five times more likely to be stopped without just cause than white people.

 

Police killings of unarmed Black Americans contribute to a significant mental health burden, with estimates suggesting over 50 million additional days of poor mental health annually among Black Americans due to these incidents. Despite being disproportionately impacted by fatal police violence, making up 22% of fatal shootings despite being 13.4% of the population, few officers are prosecuted, with only 35 of 98 officers arrested since 2005 convicted of a crime, and only three convicted of murder.

 

In the courtroom, racial bias affects every phase of the legal process, including jury selection, charging decisions, plea negotiations, and sentencing. African American defendants are 22% more likely to have convictions overturned due to police misconduct, and 47% of exonerated individuals in wrongful conviction cases are African American.

The war on drugs has disproportionately devastated Black communities, with African Americans representing 29% of drug arrests and 33% of drug incarcerations despite using illicit drugs at similar rates to white Americans. As of 2022, African Americans were 5.9 times more likely to be incarcerated than whites, and Hispanics were 3.1 times more likely.

 

These disparities are not isolated incidents but reflect a broader pattern of systemic racism that criminalizes poverty and maintains racial hierarchies. The U.S. has the largest prison population in the world, with more Black people under correctional control today than were ever enslaved in the country’s history. This system perpetuates generational trauma, economic inequality, and disenfranchisement, undermining the promise of equal justice.

 

I have lived in Belgium for twenty-five years; I have never seen a single justice for the Black people. People of African descent continue to face dehumanization. There are thousands of Belgian journalists in the country, yet nobody is interested in writing or publishing about crime against Black people in the country. I am the only African writer who has been able to write about some of these crimes, yet the Belgian government and Google have removed a lot of them from my blog.

 

I have been complaining and have written many articles about the crimes of the Belgian government and Google against me and my blog, yet nothing has improved. When I went to the Stuivenberg hospital to investigate the strange circumstances of the death of many Africans, a female official of the Stad Antwerpen said I was crazy when I accused the hospital of stealing the body parts of Africans and deliberately killing them.

 

In my opinion, the female official isn’t an intelligent fellow. What do they expect me to say when the Belgian government and the royal family have built a statue of a lunatic king that orchestrated the killing of over 10 million Africans in the Congo? Once a statue has been built for a murderer, it makes sense to say that the Stuivenberg Hospital was deliberately killing African patients after stealing their body parts. I am happy that after my investigation, the hospital is now permanently closed. 

 

Some years ago, the Belgian government collaborated with Google and deliberately destroyed our genuine health blog to cover up political and medical crimes by the US government, Belgium, the World Health Organization, and the Centers for Disease Control; however, not this time with my personal blog. 

I am ready to fight Google and any individual with my pen, and the impact of the damage will be more effective than a spear. I have seen that in Belgium, just like in the United States of America, the Black man has no respect and access to justice. I will not beg for any respect. However, as long as I am certain that I have not committed any crimes, I will fight for my survival unabated.

Readers can see that the related post widget has been manipulated; therefore, random articles are appearing. This has been going on for years. I built this blog, and I know its performance, but the fact that they are changing things and slowing it down to discourage reading means they continue to manipulate the blog. More importantly, I have submitted the blog to "Yandex," a Russian search engine; therefore, I receive reports from the webmaster anytime changes are made to my blog. 

There are several tools that, when you run your blog or website through them, tell you what Google has done. Even though I have been publishing everything they do, they continue to do it. Very soon, I will publish new things they have done on my blog. When they respect me, they will get the same back. 

To whom it may concern, stop wasting your time blocking readers' access to this article. I have published it on different platforms. If you don't respect me, I also don't have respect for you. This fight will continue till the end of my life. 

 

Experience Sunday royal dining with these meals

 

Indian chicken curry: Photo credit: foodiesfeed.com

Making a tasty and nutritious Sunday supper for the family doesn't require being a queen, king, or wealthy. By focusing on careful planning and tasteful simplicity, taking influence from both tradition and pragmatism, you may feel regal on Sunday. Many people are miserable every Sunday at home because they are unable to prepare meals; this needs to change.

 

Many simple, tasty, and family-friendly recipes that emphasize taste and simplicity can be used to create delicious home meals. Many home cooks rely on reliable resources like Allrecipes, which offers a carefully chosen selection of well-regarded meal recipes like beef stir-fry, lasagna, chicken pot pie, and enchiladas. To prepare a nutritious meal, all you have to do is rely on a cookbook and carefully follow the directions.

 

Many people prefer to eat in restaurants, which is fine, but cooking at home is not only healthier but also saves a lot of money. If you're not good at cooking, use a cookbook as a guide to make the most of your Sundays. Easy and tasty recipes include slow cooker steak and noodles, crockpot Mexican street corn dip, and Dutch oven chicken breasts with vegetables, or concentrate on your choice of meal.

 

Cooking is now easier thanks to modern technology. Air fryers, sheet pans, and crockpots are examples of gadgets that reduce cleanup while producing delectable results, such as air fryer salmon bowls or sheet pan meals with sausages and vegetables. Comfort food is still a mainstay in many home kitchens; dishes like buffalo mac and cheese, chili dogs, and meatballs made with pork, apple, and sage provide warm, filling meals.

 

There are also plenty of vegetarian and low-fat choices, such as a hearty vegetarian chili and a straightforward fish pie that can be frozen for later use or portioned out for toddlers. Dishes like tikka masala, Japanese curry, and Tex-Mex-inspired recipes are appreciated for their robust flavors and simplicity of preparation by individuals who appreciate foreign flavors.

 

 

Cooking services like Deliciously Home Cooked and Craving Home Cooked provide users vetted, accessible recipes, such as a one-pot creamy kielbasa pasta recipe and imitations of popular dishes like Panda Express Kung Pao chicken. Whether cooking a large family meal or a small-batch dessert, these platforms inspire home cooks to fall in love with the kitchen by emphasizing clear, step-by-step directions.

 

Most African men have the same culinary skills as women. I'm glad to be one of them. We used to sit next to our mothers as they cooked, which is why. This improved my cooking skills, but more significantly, I learned how to make Continental cuisine while working in a variety of restaurants in Europe. Below are two delicious meals selected for today.

 

Indian chicken curry

 

The delicious and aromatic Indian chicken curry is made with tender chicken and a rich, spicy sauce made from onions, tomatoes, and a blend of toasted spices. It is usually served with rice, naan, or roti and can be prepared using a variety of techniques and ingredient combinations.

 

 

 

Ingredients:

 

½ kg (1.1 lbs) chicken (preferably bone-in, but boneless is acceptable): 500 g (1.1 lbs)

2 to 3 tablespoons oil: 30–45 mL

1 cup (3 medium) onions (finely chopped): 240 mL

1 to 2 green chilies (slit, optional for heat): 1–2

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or ¾ inch ginger, 3 cloves garlic minced): 15 mL

½ cup (2 medium) tomatoes (pureed or finely chopped): 120 mL

¼ cup yogurt (or 1½ tbsp cashew butter or 12 cashews powdered & pureed with ¼ cup water): 60 mL

½ to ¾ teaspoon salt (adjust as needed): 2.5–3.5 mL

½ to 1 cup hot water (or light coconut milk): 120–240 mL

2 tablespoons coriander leaves (or mint leaves finely chopped): 30 mL

¼ teaspoon turmeric powder: 1.25 mL

1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (or smoked paprika for less spice): 5 mL

1 teaspoon garam masala (½ tsp more if needed): 5 mL

1 teaspoon coriander powder: 5 mL

1 bay leaf (or 1 sprig curry leaves): 1 leaf

 

Instructions:

 

Wash the chicken breasts, pat them dry, and cut them into bite-size pieces. Set aside.

On a medium flame, heat oil in a deep pan. Add whole spices—bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and green cardamoms—and let them sizzle for a few seconds.

Stir in the chopped onions and chilies. Sauté until they turn deep golden, about 7 to 8 minutes.

Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for about 1 minute, until a fragrant aroma develops.

Add the tomatoes, turmeric, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and mushy.

Turn the heat to low, then stir in the yogurt (or cashew paste), red chili powder, garam masala, and coriander powder. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the mixture becomes aromatic.

Add the chicken pieces and coriander leaves. Fry on medium heat for about 3 minutes, until the chicken turns white or pale in color.

Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.

Meanwhile, heat 1 cup of hot water in a separate pot (using hot water prevents toughening of chicken).

Add the hot water to the pan and stir. Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Taste and adjust salt if needed. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve warm.

 

Fish curry with potato and tomato

 

Fish curry with potato and tomato is a popular dish across various Indian regional cuisines, known for its rich, spiced sauce and hearty combination of tender fish and starchy potatoes. It is commonly prepared with fresh tomatoes, aromatic spices, and a variety of fish and is often served with steamed rice or flatbreads.

Fish curry with potato and tomato. Photo credit: unitabhuyan.net

 

Ingredients:

 

Fish (skinless white fish fillets): 500 g (1.1 lb) cut into 3 cm (1.2 in) pieces

Potatoes: 500 g (1.1 lb) cut into 2 cm (0.8 in) cubes

Onion: 1 medium, thinly sliced (approx. 250 g / 8.8 oz)

Tomatoes: 2 medium, coarsely grated or chopped (approx. 480 g / 1.06 lb)

Fresh ginger: 1 tbsp, grated (approx. 25 g / 0.9 oz)

Garlic: 3 cloves, crushed (approx. 15 g / 0.5 oz)

Fresh curry leaves: 3 whole (optional, but traditional)

Ground cumin: 1 tbsp (approx. 10 g / 0.35 oz)

Ground coriander: 2 tsp (approx. 6 g / 0.21 oz)

Ground turmeric: 1 tsp (approx. 5 g / 0.18 oz)

Coconut milk (light): 400 ml (14 fl oz)

Sunflower or canola oil: 1 tbsp (15 ml)

Fresh coriander: 0.333 cup, coarsely chopped (approx. 25 g / 0.9 oz)

Fresh red chilli: 1 whole, finely chopped (optional for heat)

Yoghurt (99% fat-free, plain or natural): 1 cup (240 g / 8.5 oz)

 

Instructions:

 

Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and curry leaves, and cook for 7 minutes or until light golden. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 3 minutes more until well browned.

Add crushed garlic, grated ginger, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Stir for 30 seconds or until fragrant.

Add coarsely grated tomatoes, coconut milk, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes or until potatoes are just tender.

Add the fish pieces and frozen peas (if using), and cook, covered, for 5 minutes or until the fish is just cooked through and flakes easily.

Remove curry leaf sprigs. Serve the curry sprinkled with finely chopped red chili, fresh coriander, and a dollop of unsweetened yogurt.

 

The mystery of King Nebuchadnezzar's seven-year bestial transformation

 

King Nebuchadnezzar’s bestial painting by William Blake. Credit: en.wikipedia.org/

 

Ancient Babylon had its final period of prosperity in the sixth century BC. Nebuchadnezzar, the son of King Nabopolassar, succeeded even more in reviving the empire. In addition to his political choices, the king gained fame for building the Tower of Babel and the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, two global wonders.

 

It is important to note that Nebuchadnezzar's name should be pronounced Nabû-kudurri-usur, which translates to "God Nabû, protect my borders." The millions of bricks that currently rest in the ruins of the Tower of Babel, as reported by Herodotus, bear this name etched on them. Sorry to those who think the scriptures are fairy tales.

 

The crown prince's early years are largely unknown; however, he actively studied the art of combat and led an army alongside his father in 607–606 BC. He quickly altered many facets of Babylon's legal and social structure after beginning his career with victorious military expeditions.

 

Nebuchadnezzar became well-known as a young monarch for his conquests in the Middle East, including his three invasions of Jerusalem and Judea. The biblical kingdom of David and Solomon had already been divided into two states at that point, while the Assyrians ravaged northern Israel and stole its people.

 

Only a tiny portion of southern Judea survived, and it joined the Egyptians as an ally. Nebuchadnezzar II started what the Old Testament refers to as the "New Testament of Israel" to crush any opposition. "The Babylonian captivity." The Jewish royal family, members of the nobility, and powerful individuals who could bring the populace together were all taken prisoner by Nebuchadnezzar.

 

A crucial turning point in the history of Judaism was the king's decision to transfer them to Mesopotamia. The Jews recalled what happened to the ten lost tribes, the northern Israelite tribes that vanished in Asia after being fully integrated. They became ardent followers of monotheism as a result, setting them apart from the Semitic pagans.

The Jews in a foreign land endured numerous trials in an attempt to convert them to paganism, which further damaged the king's character in their eyes. The king also developed a mental illness in his later years. He was only cured when he recognized the Jewish God, Yahweh, as the God of gods and declared it throughout his kingdom.

 

In the Old Testament, the king of Babylon and Assyria is depicted as a tyrant and oppressor of the Jewish people. According to the text, during the last years of his reign, Nebuchadnezzar, who believed himself to be God, fell ill with a terrible and strange disease that plagued him for seven years.

 

The Book of Daniel describes how God punished Nebuchadnezzar for his conceit: "And they will drive you out from among the people, and you will live with the wild animals; they will feed you with grass like an ox, and seven times will pass over you, until you know that the Most High rules over the kingdom of man and gives it to whomever He wishes!

 

"And the word was fulfilled on Nebuchadnezzar, and he was cut off from among men, and he ate grass like an ox, and his body was watered with dew from heaven, so that his hair grew like a lion's, and his nails were like a bird's." - Daniel 4:28-30.

 

The biblical account claims that King Nebuchadnezzar lived apart from humans and shared food with animals just as Daniel had prophesied. These symptoms have been linked by contemporary scientists to lycanthropy, a particular type of psychosis. A mental disorder called lycanthropy causes a person to think they have changed into an animal, and sometimes they may behave like animals in extreme situations.

 

Nebuchadnezzar II ruled for forty-three years, and Babylonia rose to prominence as the Ancient Near East's most powerful state during this period. Babylon itself was elevated to the status of the greatest metropolis of its time, and the population reached 200,000, according to ancient historians, protected by three formidable fortress walls that had no comparable counterparts.

 

William Blake, an English poet, painter, and printmaker who was born in November 1757 and passed away on August 12, 1827, created an artwork depicting King Nebuchadnezzar in a beastly state, crawling with a long golden beard, dragging on the ground, with long nails.

 

The enigmatic Joel Savage: Dive into his background

 

Joel Savage: Author, journalist and writer

Joel Savage is a Ghanaian-born journalist, writer, and author who later became a Belgian national and now lives in Antwerp, Belgium. His work blends journalism, creative writing, and social commentary, often focusing on difficult or underreported issues. This article represents his biography. 

 

He is one of those writers whose career spans continents, genres, and decades, and the search results give a solid, verifiable picture of his background and work.

 

Career Highlights

 

•             He began writing at a young age and studied journalism at                  the Ghana Institute of Journalism in Accra.

•              He worked as a freelance journalist for major Ghanaian                       newspapers, including:

•             Ghanaian Times

•             Daily Graphic

•             Weekly Spectator

•             After moving to Belgium, he continued writing and became                a member of the Flemish Journalists Association.

•             He writes the column “A Mixture of Periodicals,” which                    covers a wide range of topics from social issues to cultural                  commentary.

 

Themes and Topics He Covers

 

Across platforms, Savage is known for tackling:

•             Drug abuse

•             Child trafficking

•             Juvenile crime

•             Broader social problems and crimes against humanity

These themes appear in his journalism, blog posts, and social commentary.

 

Online Presence

 

He maintains an active presence on various platforms:

•             About.me profile summarizing his background and writing journey

•             Xing and Viadeo profiles highlighting his professional experience and long career in journalism

•             Mastodon, where he posts commentary on global issues and politics.

 

The African writer, journalist, and author is known for his work on social issues, crime, health, and human‑interest stories. Based in Antwerp, Belgium, he has written extensively for both Ghanaian and European audiences, drawing on his multicultural background and decades of experience in journalism. Savage is also recognized for his commentary on global affairs, child welfare, drug abuse, and human trafficking.

 

Early Life and Education

 

Savage was born and raised in Ghana, where he developed an early interest in storytelling and film. Inspired by his father, himself a writer, journalist, and documentary filmmaker, Savage initially dreamed of becoming an actor. When formal acting training proved financially out of reach, he turned fully toward writing, encouraged by Ghanaian newspaper columnist “Nana Ama’s Advice,” to whom he wrote as a young aspiring artist.

 

He attended Ebenezer Secondary School and Accra High School before enrolling at the Ghana Institute of Journalism, where he studied journalism and creative writing.

 

Career in Ghana

 

Before emigrating, Savage worked as a freelance journalist for several major Ghanaian newspapers, including:

•             The Ghanaian Times

•             Daily Graphic

•             The Weekly Spectator

•             The Mirror

His articles often explored social issues, human behavior, and community life, earning him a reputation for accessible, empathetic storytelling.

 

Migration to Belgium and Later Career

 

Savage later settled in Antwerp, Belgium, where he became a Belgian national. In Europe, he continued writing and expanded his work into books, blogs, and commentary on international issues. He is a member of the Flemish Journalists Association and writes the long‑running column “A Mixture of Periodicals.” His work frequently addresses:

•             Drug abuse

•             Child abuse

•             Juvenile crime

•             Human trafficking

•             Social inequality

He maintains an active online presence, including commentary on global politics and media ethics.

 

Writing Style and Themes

 

Savage’s writing blends investigative curiosity with personal reflection. His narratives often highlight the struggles of marginalized people, drawing attention to systemic failures and human resilience. He is known for his direct, unembellished prose and his willingness to confront uncomfortable topics.

 

His Goodreads profile shows a strong interest in African and global nonfiction, including works by Ryszard Kapuściński, whose influence can be seen in Savage’s observational style and focus on lived experience.

 

Selected Works

 

Savage has authored numerous books, many of which explore crime, social issues, and personal journeys, including his experience in European countries, such as Italy, the Netherlands, and Belgium. His books are available on Amazon.com.

 

Personal Life

 

Savage lives in Antwerp, Belgium. He continues to write, publish, and comment on contemporary issues through blogs, social media, and literary platforms. His multicultural background, Ghanaian roots and Belgian life shape much of his worldview and writing.

 

Legacy and Influence

 

One of his greatest challenges as an African writer living in Europe is that the topics he writes about are completely different from what writers and journalists in industrialized nations share with their readers. Among the various challenges he encountered were attempts to bury or lessen the prominence of his articles.

 

Joel Savage is regarded as part of a generation of African writers who built careers across continents, using journalism and literature to bridge cultural experiences. His work contributes to ongoing conversations about migration, identity, and social justice.

 

Trump's Greenland obsession: What's driving the acquisition push?

 

Tasiilag, East Greenland. Photo credit: pixabay.com

Greenland, the world's largest island, is located between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans. Large ice sheets, glaciers, and rough terrain set this autonomous province within the Kingdom of Denmark apart. It spans more than 2.166 million square kilometers.

 

As mentioned above, for decades, the island has been under Denmark; therefore, what would make US President Donald Trump suddenly want to buy this stunning natural beauty with unique features from the Danish government? Why would the US government waste its time on something that will not benefit it?

 

There were only 56,669 residents on the enormous island as of January 2024. More significantly, 2,300 of Greenland's residents are foreigners, and the capital city of Nuuk is home to one-third of the population. Every nation has a history, and Greenland's is convoluted and ambiguous.

 

The Canadian Inuit people lived on the island in the middle of the third millennium BC. People from Northern Europe began exploring the region in the ninth century. The region's current name was given by an Icelandic explorer at that time. However, the Europeans were forced to evacuate the location six millennia later when the island was struck by extremely cold temperatures and ice development.

 

"Following Denmark's occupation of the island in 1721, Lutheran missions and monopolistic trading colonies started to spring up in Greenland. The territory was closed to outside commercial relations for over 30 years. However, to safeguard North Atlantic logistics and keep the Nazis from capturing Greenland, the United States seized the island during World War II.

 

When the war came to an end, Greenland was once again under Danish rule, with the Americans in charge of the military installation they had established; however, due to local discontent, they relaxed their colonial demands. In 1951, trade restrictions were lifted, and after two years, the island was granted full county status within Denmark, which resulted in advancements in housing, transportation, and education.

 

Denmark became a member of the European Union in 1973. Residents of the island thought that this invention would hurt the local fishing industry's ability to grow economically. Consequently, Greenland gained internal autonomy six years later and was kicked out of the European Union three years later.

 

The resources and economy of Greenland in 2025

 

The fishing industry is responsible for about 90% of the nation's exports and about one-third of its domestic regional product. The island's economy also heavily depends on the transportation, telecommunications, and construction industries. Additionally, the nation's economy depends on tourism, seal hunting, and whaling.

 

With 66% of Greenland's imports and 85.8% of its exports, Denmark is regarded as the country's main trading partner. Today, who owns Greenland? From a political viewpoint, the region is still formally a part of Denmark. The region is a component of the Kingdom of Denmark's Greenland autonomous administrative unit, together with the minor neighboring islands.

 

What is the reason for Trump's desire to acquire Greenland?

 

Donald Trump, the elected president of the United States, made a shocking announcement on his social media platform Truth Social on January 6, 2025. The politician claims that if and when the island joins the US, it will be extremely beneficial.

 

Although Trump acknowledged that Americans are prepared to defend Greenland "to cherish it from a very scary outside world" and did not rule out using force to seize the island, why was America in such dire need of it? We need to find out the evident reasons for the US’s decision.

 

The U.S. military and economy depend on 50 minerals, including copper, lead, zinc, silver, palladium, uranium, niobium, graphite, and tantalum, of which 43 are easily found in Greenland. These minerals are now supplied to the United States by China, but ties between the two countries are getting worse every year.

 

An excellent substitute for easing traffic in the Suez Canal is the route across the Arctic. Considering indications of an increase in the number of ships in the vicinity from China and Russia, this measure is particularly pertinent for the United States.

 

The Danish government made significant changes to its coat of arms, including enlarging the polar bear, which is regarded as Greenland's emblem. Mette Frederiksen, the Prime Minister of Denmark, stated that the island is not for sale.

 

In my opinion, this island of tundra, shrubs, and moss-lichen, which are representative of the fauna and flora as well as species of animals, such as walruses, bowhead whales, seals, eiders, white grouse, seagulls, Atlantic cod and salmon, sharks, polar bears, musk oxen, reindeer, polar bears, Arctic wolves, lemmings, Arctic foxes, and more, will be under Danish rule for all time.

 

The hidden threats of the US military bases in African nations

 

The U.S. and Cameroonian forces. Photo credit: dronecenter.bard.edu

The United States maintains a network of military outposts across Africa through cooperative security locations, forward operating sites, and drone bases, often in cooperation with host nations. Despite its claims that it does not want permanent bases, the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) operates under various arrangements in multiple countries.

 

The US government argues that its bases' access points throughout Africa are essential for fighting extremist organizations like Boko Haram and al-Qaeda affiliates, especially in the Sahel and Horn of Africa regions, as well as for advancing its counterterrorism goals, securing strategic interests, and countering the influence of rival powers like China and Russia.

 

However, this raises concerns about the veracity of those bases in African nations, considering the attacks on other nations using US-established bases. I don't think it makes sense for America to convince the world that establishing bases is to combat terrorism, as no nation faces global dangers like the United States. More significantly, neither China nor Russia poses a threat to the Black Continent.

 

Following the widespread independence of African countries, the US administration and the West implemented a number of misleading programs to persuade African leaders of their advantages. However, given America's history of aggression against oil-producing nations like Iraq, Iran, and Libya, it is simple to accept that America has bases in Africa, not because it cares for the continent's citizens.

 

Securing access to Africa's abundant natural resources, particularly oil and gold, and maintaining U.S. geopolitical dominance in a continent increasingly sought by foreign investment and influence are the fundamental reasons why the US established bases in African nations. As a result, the US bases serve as a reminder to rival nations like China and Russia that "our bases are there, so don't come close."

 

I believe that strategic access to key geographic locations, such as Djibouti - Camp Lemonier, Kenya - Manda Bay, Niger - Air Base 101, Niamey, and Air Base 201, Egypt -MFO South Camp, Egypt - MFO South Camp, and Cameroon - Contingency Location Garoua, would enable a rapid attack on any rich resource country. In my opinion, America’s aggression against rich source nations should serve as a lesson to African leaders to prevent the setting up of bases in African countries.

 

The United States used military equipment stationed at bases in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, such as San Isidro Air Base and Las Américas International Airport, which were authorized for U.S. use for counter-narcotics operations, to launch its attack on Venezuela and capture its president, Nicholas Maduro. After Libya and Iraq yesterday and Venezuela today, which African nation is next?

 

AFRICOM frequently overshadows diplomatic and humanitarian organizations, weakens African sovereignty, and displaces civilian development initiatives. It also encourages internal repression by supporting authoritarian regimes.

American military installations in African nations present a complex threat that includes worries about sovereignty, neo-colonial influence, and the possibility of further instability. Ghana's first president, Kwame Nkrumah, saw this threat and warned the newly independent African nations before he was deposed and died in exile. 

The legendary Queen of Sheba: Where did she go?

 

The Queen of Sheba is well-known for her enormous wealth and for visiting King Solomon to gauge his level of intelligence. Photo credit: Freepik.com

The story of the Queen of Sheba is interwoven with Ethiopian, Islamic, Christian, and Jewish traditions. She was referred to as the Queen of Sheba by Jews and Christians, Queen Bilquis by Arabs, and Macheda by Ethiopians. Between 1000 and 950 BC, she is reported to have traveled to Jerusalem with a convoy of valuable stones, gold, and spices to meet King Solomon.

 

Who was the Queen of Sheba in reality? From where did she originate? Did she actually have a meeting with King Solomon? Some of the stories in the Bible are both fascinating and inspirational, posing many questions. She was referred to as the Queen of Sheba by the Jews and Christians, Macheda by the Ethiopians, and Queen Bilquis by the Arabs.

 

The fact that Queen Sheba's story has both Jewish and Persian roots, as well as being mentioned in the Koran, adds to its intrigue. The Jewish Talmud, the Bible, the Old Testament, the Koran, and the Kebra Nagast, an Ethiopian literature from the fourteenth century, all tell her story. According to these accounts, she was a wealthy and astute monarch who was drawn to Solomon's reputation for knowledge.

 

Menelik, whose inherent meaning is "son of the wise man," was born out of King Solomon's relationship with the queen. Menelik, who grew up and became king, adopted the lion of Judah as his emblem after ascending to the throne because Ethiopians are the chosen people. When he came to Axum as an adult and wanted to see the alleged father Solomon, he either stole or received the Ark of the Covenant.

 

The Ark of the Covenant was not a common item that anybody could easily touch or steal, so in my opinion, this story is a little confusing. Only the Levites, more especially Kohath's sons from the priestly class, are involved. Given the story that "when they came to the threshing floor of Nachon, when the oxen stumbled, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark of God, and he was struck," how could the Ark of the Covenant be stolen?

 

The queen reportedly resided 120 kilometers from Yemen's capital, Sana. The ancient capital of Saba was located in Marib, east of Sana. As time went on, Marib was located at the intersection of caravans carrying incense toward the Red Sea and the entire region.

 

In May 2008, a team of German archaeologists declared that they had discovered at Axum, Ethiopia, not only the remnants of the famous Queen of Sheba's palace but also the location of the Ark of the Covenant, which held the Tablets of the Law that Moses had received on Sinai. Beneath the ruins of another structure constructed by a later Christian ruler, the remnants of the Queen of Sheba's palace from the tenth century BC were found.

 

The queen most likely came from Marib, which was the capital of ancient Saba and a hamlet east of Sana in modern-day Yemen. Therefore, if she existed, she may have been born and raised in Marib, which is in the middle of the desert. According to legend, she was incredibly attractive, interesting, and wealthy. The magnificence of enormous temples and palaces surrounds his legendary presence.

 

The dominion of the Sabeans also extended over the African continent, including the current Yemen, Eritrea, Somalia, and above all, Ethiopia, wherein the Axum seat of the sovereigns of the Axumite empire was established, and whose current site has been discovered by the German archaeologists.

 

However, who was the Queen of Sheba, what realm did she rule over, and why did she fabricate a legend? The material found in the Sacred Book of Rastafarians, associated with reggae music and claiming to be the successors of Christianity from Haile Selassie, Ras Tafari, is the basis for what has been said thus far concerning the Queen of Sheba and her remarkable tale.

 

We can’t overlook the biblical allusions to the Queen of Sheba's journey to learn about Solomon in 1 Kings 10:4 and Matthew 12:42, which states, "The queen of the south shall rise in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here."

 

Rastafarians believe they are the descendants of King David through a lineage traced back to the union of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, a belief supported by the Ethiopian religious text Kebra Nagast. They view the Ethiopian Solomonic Dynasty, to which Emperor Haile Selassie I belonged, as a direct representation of King David's royal line.

 

According to history, the queen lived about 120 km from Sana, the capital of Yemen. East of Sana in Marib, which was the capital of ancient Saba. Marib was situated at the point where caravans that carried incense in the direction of the Red Sea crossed, and the whole region, with the passing of the years.

 

In May 2008, a group of German archaeologists announced that they had found in Axum, Ethiopia, not only the remains of the palace of the legendary Queen of Sheba but also the place where the Ark of the Covenant was kept, which contained the Tablets of the Law, the Ten Commandments.

 

According to the story, the Queen of Sheba returned to her own nation after successfully challenging Solomon's wisdom and receiving lavish presents in exchange. She is never referenced again in the biblical account. According to Ethiopian legend, she subsequently gave birth to Menelik I, the first Ethiopian ruler, who is credited with returning the Ark of the Covenant to Ethiopia.

 

Waking up on a Tuesday morning in a world threatened by wars

 

Palestinians converge for a free meal in Rafah, Gaza. Photo credit: Fatima Shbair/AP

 

It can be extremely frightening, unbelievable, and emotionally upsetting to wake up on a Tuesday morning in a world where war is a threat, particularly when the news of violence comes as a surprise.

 

For some, it starts with a startling message, often accompanied by an urgent tone or a sobbing emoji, from a loved one, such as a friend or family member, declaring that war has broken out.

 

Disbelief is frequently the first response: "What and how could this be? This is not possible. However, it was and still is true. Social media recordings of explosions, missile strikes, or military action, such as a missile striking an airport only kilometers from one's hometown, often provide the initial confirmation.

 

The experience is bizarre for those watching from overseas; they feel physically safe but emotionally powerless, wonder if they should be there to assist, and worry about the safety of everyone they care about. People may suffer from anxiety, hyperventilation, or nightmares as a result of the psychological toll, particularly if they have personal connections to conflict areas.

 

Feelings of being ignored or unheard are exacerbated by a sense of loneliness brought on by the world's seeming indifference or underreporting of the conflict. Many, including children, mothers, fathers, and the elderly, continue to suffer throughout war periods, as many sleep in tents without any heating system.

 

As Ukraine enters its fourth winter under full-scale invasion, millions of civilians are enduring severe hardships due to relentless attacks, widespread power outages, and freezing temperatures, which are straining an already exhausted population.

 

Ongoing strikes on energy infrastructure have left entire communities uncertain about access to heat, electricity, and clean water, while fresh displacement continues along active frontlines.

 

The situation is particularly dire for vulnerable groups, including low-income residents in poorly constructed high-rise buildings; elderly and mobility-limited individuals living near the frontline, estimated at least half a million people within 20 kilometers of the front; and internally displaced people (IDPs) who remain in precarious conditions after years of displacement.

 

Access to medical care has become a critical concern, with over 70% of surveyed individuals identifying it as their most urgent need, and more than 60% of households lacking sufficient heating this winter. One in five families suffers from health issues linked to cold indoor temperatures, and over half of respondents cannot afford essential medicines, exacerbating a growing health crisis.

 

The psychological toll is equally severe, with over one-third of the population reporting mental health issues, and nearly 90% of families in frontline areas grappling with anxiety, stress, or sadness. Children are especially vulnerable, with 1.5 million at risk of developing post-traumatic stress syndrome and other mental health challenges.

 

Humanitarian agencies warn that this winter could be one of the most difficult yet, as intensified bombardment, worsening access constraints, and growing funding gaps threaten to leave hundreds of thousands without adequate support.

 

Despite efforts by organizations like CARE and the International Rescue Committee to deliver winterization aid such as thermal underwear, gas heaters, warm blankets, and medical supplies, the scale of need far exceeds available resources.

 

The combination of damaged infrastructure, limited access to utilities, and the psychological burden of nearly four years of war continues to place immense pressure on civilians, many of whom are living in damaged homes without protection from the harsh winter conditions.

 

Ultimately, awakening to a world in danger of war is a very personal experience influenced by location, proximity to conflict areas, and emotional sensitivity, but it always entails a tension between the dreadful truth of global instability and the routine rhythm of daily life.

 

Beauty and wealth may contribute to someone’s pride; however, one’s legacy and integrity are more important to me than anything. Everybody has a role to play; therefore, what legacy did you leave behind to be remembered when you passed away? Wars, tribal conflicts, and oppression can’t solve the problems. Love conquers all.

 

The hypothetical scenario of Trump seeking the Ark of the Covenant to invade Ethiopia

 

The Ark of the Covenant. Photo credit: azbyka.ru/

Donald Trump has become a greedy and politically combative president who wants everything he believes will “Make America Great Again." The US president wants Venezuela's oil reserves, as well as Greenland, the world's largest island, which is currently under the control of the Danish government. I don’t doubt that Trump would have attacked Ethiopia if the Ark of God were still there or if he knew its whereabouts.

 

As a counterpoint to reliance on military power, some people take pride in their chariots, while others take pride in their horses. However, since there is no evidence that the Ark of the Covenant was in America but rather in Ethiopia, Africa's pride is in its spiritual and heavenly might, aside from the abundant resources on the continent that industrialized nations continue to plunder and later call the Black Continent “a shithole.”

 

The Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament both describe the Ark of the Covenant as a holy chest built by the Israelites at God's direction. It was constructed in accordance with instructions from God that Moses received while the Israelites were camped at Mount Sinai, about a year after their flight from Egypt.

 

The chest was made of acacia wood, overlaid with pure gold both inside and out, and measured approximately 2.5 cubits long, 1.5 cubits wide, and 1.5 cubits high (about 111 cm × 67 cm × 67 cm or 44 in × 26 in × 26 in). Four gold rings were attached to its sides, through which gold-plated acacia wood poles were inserted for carrying the Ark, ensuring that no one would touch it directly.

 

The most important aspect of the Ark was its golden lid, sometimes called the mercy seat or propitiatory cover. It had two golden cherubim facing each other with their wings spread wide, signifying the presence of God. Biblical stories state that God communicated through the Ark by speaking from between the cherubim on the mercy seat.

 

The Ark of the Covenant housed the two stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, which were inscribed by God and delivered to Moses on Mount Sinai. In addition, later traditions state that it also contained a jar of manna and Aaron’s rod that had budded, though these items were not present when the Ark was moved into Solomon’s Temple.

 

God's bond with Israel was symbolized by the Ark, which stood for His holy presence among His people.  During the Israelites' wilderness adventure, it was carried by the Levites and was crucial to several significant occasions, including the fall of Jericho and the crossing of the Jordan River.

 

Ethiopian Orthodox history holds that Menelik I, the son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, transported the Ark of the Covenant to Ethiopia. Since ancient times, it has been kept at the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion in Axum. The 14th-century book Kebra Nagast, which describes the fabled voyage of Menelik and the purported transfer of the Ark from Jerusalem to Ethiopia, is the source of this fundamental Ethiopian identity idea.

 

The Ark of the Covenant was eventually relocated to the Most Holy Place of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem around 1026 BCE, and only the high priest had access to it once a year on Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, when he would sprinkle sacrificial blood on the mercy seat to atone for the sins of the populace. However, despite the Ark's vital function, its ultimate fate is still unknown.

 

"Why would Donald Trump target the Ark of the Covenant in Ethiopia? Donald Trump, in my opinion, would have attacked Ethiopia for the Ark of the Covenant for two reasons."

 

Since the Bible does not mention the modern nation of America by name, nor does it reference any of the 50 current U.S. states or the country as a political entity, but rather African countries, such as Egypt, Libya, Ethiopia, and the region of Nubia, which includes parts of modern Sudan, jealous Trump will be forced to invade Ethiopia like Venezuela to take possession of the Ark of the Covenant.

 

According to the Bible, Obed-Edom the Gittite had the Ark of the Covenant temporarily in his home for three months. During that time, it bestowed blessings upon him and his family. 2 Samuel 6:11 describes this incident. Trump would have taken control of the Ark for the United States to fulfill his political dreams, to “Make America Great Again.”

 

When the oxen stumbled, and the ark tipped, Uzzah reached out to steady it, but he was struck dead for his rude actions. Although Uzzah's goal was to prevent the ark from collapsing, his actions violated the divine decree that only the designated Levites could touch it. Donald Trump would still try despite this account.

Fidel Castro: The man America couldn't capture

 

Fidel Castro: The Cuban revolutionary leader

The United States started thinking about how to topple the revolutionary government almost as soon as the Cuban Revolution occurred on January 1, 1959. The American program's initial goal was to assist the Cuban opposition so that Castro's demise would seem to be the consequence of his own errors.

 

Eisenhower gave his approval to the plan to invade Cuba and topple its government on March 17, 1960. Four goals were included in the plan at the time: the formation of a cohesive Cuban opposition; the establishment of a radio station for gray broadcasting to Cuba on both short and long waves; the continuation of the construction of an intelligence and subversive network within Cuba; and the continuation of preparations for the formation of a paramilitary force outside of Cuba.

 

This phase essentially combined psychological warfare with guerrilla warfare. The CIA started training 300 insurgents right away, first in the Panama Canal Zone and the United States, and then in Guatemala. Using equipment that had been left on the island following its use for radio propaganda as part of Operation PBSUCCESS, the radio station on Isla Grande started up on May 17. The Cuban Democratic Revolutionary Front (FDR), which consists of 184 factions, was formed in June by the CIA.

 

The character of the plan started to change from guerrilla warfare to a naval landing in the fall of 1960 when the CIA determined that the guerrilla war might not reach the critical mass required for an uprising against Castro. The CIA anticipated that a large-scale revolt against Castro would start a few weeks after the invasion and be successful in a few more weeks.

 

On the morning of April 15, 1961, eight B-26 bombers with Cuban Air Force markings struck three airfields in an attempt to destroy the Cuban Air Force. However, the Cuban military command managed to disperse and camouflage the aircraft, leaving only damaged and simulated planes at the airfields. Around midnight on April 17, 1961, the "2506 Brigade" launched an amphibious assault in the Cochinos Bay area.

 

A local "people's militia" unit of roughly 100 men and a five-man patrol from the 339th Battalion attempted to stop the landing operation on April 17, but they were defeated and forced to leave. However, when the Cuban authorities learned of the landing at 03:15, they promptly evaluated the situation. The nation declared martial law and announced a nationwide mobilization.

 

Fidel Castro urged the people of the nation to oppose the invading invaders in a radio speech. Cuban Air Force aircraft attacked the landing spot multiple times as morning broke. Two landing barges and two transport ships were sunk. The Castro government's superior troops utilized planes, tanks, and howitzer artillery to stop the paratroopers' attack in the middle of the day on April 17.

 

The invasion planners decided to use five B-26 aircraft to strike Cuban fortifications on April 19. American pilots replaced the Cuban pilots who refused to fly on what they saw as a suicidal mission. The bombers were meant to be escorted by American jet fighters from the USS Essex, but the aircraft missed one another, and the Cuban Air Force shot down two B-26s carrying American aircrew.

 

The conflict concluded on April 19, 1961, when Brigade 2506 stopped resisting. Brigade 2506 has 1,202 captured and 114 dead overall. The captured Gusanos of Brigade 2506 were put on trial in April 1962, and in December of the same year, they were sent to the United States in return for food and medical supplies.

 

The operation's failure generated a great deal of controversy both domestically and abroad. Forty nations' representatives denounced the US assault against Cuba during a UN conference. In a protest letter to the United States, the Soviet Union denounced the armed invasion and demanded that action be taken to stop the assault against Cuba.