Conflicts

 

                                                                      Soudan Soldier

                                                                 Watercolor by Anmarie

Armed conflicts never solve geopolitical problems, and they sometimes last a very long time. Sudan is in a forgotten war, deliberately ignored by the world because of its complexity. Rebels clash with government troops while the weakened population has been suffering from famine for decades, causing an unprecedented global crisis in the region.
They often cause more suffering than concrete solutions, leaving fractured societies, weakened economies, and generations marked by the loss of loved ones. Force does not guarantee peace; only dialogue and cooperation can. Rather than resolving disagreements, wars reinforce mistrust and prolong instability. Destroy cities, countryside, lives, structures, and historical sites. Countries can sometimes take a century to rebuild afterward.
It is crucial to rethink our methods for resolving conflicts. We must invest in preventive diplomacy, peace education, and structures to promote international mediation, rather than consider war as inevitable. Societies that listen to and seek compromise foster innovative solutions, meeting the aspirations of people without violence. Humanity should exchange weapons for speech to build bridges instead of walls. Wars are expensive and harm the economy and budgets of countries, which could invest that money in science and education.
Adopting this perspective involves revisiting collective memory, listening to the stories of survivors and affected communities to draw lasting lessons for the future. We must recognize the resilience of those who, despite the scars of war, work to rebuild the social fabric and promote peaceful values. Moreover, citizen engagement is crucial: by participating in solidarity actions and by supporting access to education and culture, everyone helps to ease tensions and promote mutual respect. In short, relying on collective intelligence and human creativity fosters true peace based on shared justice and dignity. Numerous current examples show how a strong commitment to peace can transform the destiny of nations on a global scale. Disarmament actions, reconciliation processes, and intercultural exchanges show the great potential of human cooperation. We must draw inspiration from the successes of multilateral dialog, where understanding the other is more important than victory. By focusing on conflict prevention through education, exchanges, and diplomacy, societies avoid losses and cultivate a culture of respect and shared responsibility. This ambitious horizon requires collective mobilization and a continuous questioning of our governance models and priorities as a global community. Finally, let's remember that peace is not just the absence of war but a dynamic process requiring vigilance, commitment, and creativity from everyone. It is based on social justice, equity, and respect for the dignity of all. By investing in these values, humanity will be able to overcome destructive cycles and build a future of solidarity and reconciliation.

 Each month, thousands of Sudanese flee to neighboring countries. A year after clashes between armed factions, Sudan remains at war, with 15,000 dead, eight million civilians displaced, 25 million in need of assistance, and an imminent famine. Since mid-April 2023, a wave of violence has been sweeping across the country without interruption. Humanitarian aid workers often must leave the territory due to the dangerous security situation, endangering their most courageous volunteers. Although humanitarian supplies are available in Port Sudan, they are hampered by looting of warehouses, bureaucratic obstacles, insecurity, and communication breakdowns. According to UNICEF, children are the main victims. The older ones are forcibly recruited by armed groups. Women and girls have been raped, leading to new pregnancies. Some are too weak to feed their babies. We are entering a vicious cycle that is difficult to break. Militias are killing people based on their ethnicity. A ceasefire seems impossible; the international community must bring the opponents to dialogue to avoid disaster for the Sudanese people, and the future of Africa's third-largest country is at stake. The survival of millions of people is at risk, as well as the stability of a region exacerbated by a growing famine. This war is destroying agriculture, businesses, and national economies; after this, it will be complex to get the economy back on track.

Paris between luxury and extravagance

 

Watercolor and ink by Amarie

Paris, nicknamed "the City of Light," never ceases to fascinate, inspire, and make people dream. It is a place where history and modernity intertwine, where luxury meets excess, and where every street, every boulevard, seems to vibrate to the rhythm of rare elegance. Capital of refinement, fashion, and art, Paris alone embodies the epitome of style and urban extravagance.
The light of Paris, whether it is that of the golden lampposts lining the Seine or that of the sparkling shop windows of Avenue Montaigne, symbolizes much more than just nighttime lighting. It is no coincidence that Paris was the first major European city to adopt public lighting in the 18th century, thereby reinforcing its reputation for avant-gardism and innovation. A city of intellectuals and creators, it welcomes millions of visitors each year who come seeking inspiration and wonder.
From the splendors of the Eiffel Tower to the flamboyant stained glass of Notre-Dame, Paris shines with its architectural heritage. The museums, such as the Louvre or the Muséed'Orsay, house invaluable treasures that make Paris a universal cultural capital. The mythical squares—Place Vendôme, Place de la Concorde, and Place des Vosges—are so many jewels that punctuate the city, bearing witness to a splendor that has never waned.
In Paris, luxury is not limited to a simple material notion: it is rooted in the very soul of the city. The high-end fashion boutiques, the century-old palaces, the jewelry workshops, and the grand Michelin-starred restaurants embody this unique expertise. On the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, in the hushed salons of the Ritz or the Crillon, the notion of service reaches peaks of perfection.
Paris is the cradle of haute couture. The biggest names have set up shop there: Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Hermès... Every year, Fashion Week transforms the city into a theater of elegance where designers, models, and trend enthusiasts gather. In the Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or Faubourg Saint-Honoré districts, each boutique competes with creativity and exclusivity.
Luxury is also discovered through gastronomy. The starred chefs, such as Pierre Gagnaire, Guy Savoy, or Alain Ducasse, make the taste buds of gourmets from all over the world vibrate. The famous pastry chefs—Yann Couvreur, Pierre Hermé, Philippe Conticini, Cédric Grolet,Cyril Lignac, Jacques Genin, Sadakaru Maki—offer creations that are as much sweet works of art. The markets, the historic wine cellars, and the cheese shops all contribute to this daily celebration of French refinement.
Paris is a city that dares and has fun: its extravagances are legendary. In the social evenings of palaces and private clubs, the party is adorned with excess and gentle madness. The Moulin Rouge, the Crazy Horse, and the legendary cabarets make Parisian nighties dance under the spotlight, where glamor mixes with audacity.
From fashion shows to costume balls, Paris loves spectacular staging. The city hosts the largest international trade shows—Maison & Objects, Paris Photo, and FIAC—as well as prestigious galas in museums or private mansions. The fireworks on July 14th and the Christmas lights on the Champs-Élysées transform the city into a magical setting.
The Parisian art scene is just as vibrant, from the discreet galleries in the Le Marais district to the bold installations at the Palais de Tokyo. Rooftop evenings, hidden bars, and festive cruises on the Seine offer many opportunities to experience Paris differently, in an atmosphere that is both eccentric and refined.
If Paris shines with all its splendor, it remains nonetheless a city that knows how to evolve. The new neighborhoods, such as the thirteenth arrondissement or the La Défense area, bear witness to urban dynamism and embraced modernity. Ecological initiatives, the rise of design, and avant-garde architecture are integrated into the Parisian fabric, blending respect for traditions with bold innovations.
From the splendor of the Opéra Garnier to the conviviality of small bistros, from majestic gardens to narrow cobblestone streets, Paris captivates with its contrasts. You encounter all cultures, all styles, and all desires. It is this mix, this effervescence, that makes Paris a unique city in the world.
Paris, the City of Light, is not just about its monuments or its history: it is, above all, an invitation to celebrate beauty, luxury, and extravagance in all their forms. Whether you are just passing through or a resident, Paris offers everyone the opportunity to dream, to marvel, and to experience a city where anything becomes possible thanks to the audacity and creativity of its inhabitants. A true jewel in the heart of Europe, Paris remains and will continue to be an unparalleled reference, a symbol of an art of living that fascinates and inspires the entire world.

It is not surprising that part of my family lives there. It’s difficult to dislodge and understand them, especially as they live with four people in an area of only 40 square meters. I suppose this is the price to pay to live in a luxury metropolitan city. Of course, my son has managed to land an exciting job at the company T.E.S.S., and my daughter-in-law has more opportunities to find  interesting employment. I bless them.

Maternity

 

Drawing with color pencils by Amarie 

Young bride, it is a state that one hopes for and dreads at the same time. It is the unknown world that opens to the young woman, and the doubt remains about whether she can handle all the stages up to childbirth, the course of which and the outcome of which are unknown. It is a journey of emotions, challenges, and discoveries. Motherhood is much more than just a state. It is a complex journey filled with intense joys, upheavals, and unique experiences.
The only thing I realized with certainty was that the average duration of a pregnancy is nine months. I found this term extremely long! My pregnancy was accompanied by multiple physical transformations: weight gain, changes in body shape, hormonal fluctuations, mood swings, sudden fatigue, cravings, uncontrollable hunger, and the emergence of new ailments like aversion to the smell of morning coffee and, above all, digestive issues characterized by nausea and vomiting. These changes were both a source of fascination and discomfort. On a psychological level, my day was divided between an ambivalence of happiness and apprehension, an oscillation between serenity and anxiety in the face of the unknown. Fortunately, time was precious, and the profession engulfed all my worries. Besides, I had no one to confide my doubts and my anxieties to and to seek advice from. "Each pregnancy is a unique journey," my dear family doctor assured me. "Don't worry, I'm here!" My prenatal care was provided by a physiotherapist with her weekly light exercises, regular check-ups with my gynecologist in Bruges, and my local doctor for minor ailments. They all try to reassure me as best as they can to ensure a positive pregnancy. My delivery would take place, if possible, in a hospital setting. I worked until the evening before, making sure to give birth before the medical service opened the next morning with an ultra-fast, taxi-style delivery.
My motherhood was ahead of its time in the difficult context of the movement for women's place in society and the not-so-easy reconciliation of professional and family life at the time. We were already exposing ourselves to numerous family and societal criticisms, firmly challenging ancestral norms. While the support of those around becomes crucial during the pivotal period in the lives of the mother and child, one struggles with misunderstanding, exhaustion, hormonal upheavals, identity questions, baby blues, and the increased mental and physical load. It is a delicate transition where the mother-child relationship is established and the confrontation with the new role, that of a parent, takes place. My primary goal: to be a good mother despite the challenges. Succeed in balancing everything, offering the best to your child. It was essential to value my atypical journey, to accept imperfection, and to remind myself that every story is legitimate. Despite the challenges, motherhood is rich in happiness: first smiles, first steps, shared discoveries, and bonds that are woven day by day. The relationship with the child, filled with tenderness, wonder, and sometimes challenges, profoundly transforms the one who becomes a parent. Motherhood is also about growing with your child, questioning yourself, learning to let go, and passing on values. It is a journey marked by doubts and bright moments, fatigue and laughter, worries and pride.

Perfectionism

 

                                                                  watercolor

Perfectionism captivates and polarizes. Appreciated in some contexts and dreaded in others, I ask myself the essential question: is it a quality, a flaw, or both simultaneously? To better understand this complex character trait, which seems to bother those around me, I force myself to examine its origins, its manifestations, its consequences, and the means to control it on a daily basis.

Perfectionism is generally characterized by the disposition to strive for extremely high, even unrealistic, standards in the completion of tasks, whether in a professional, academic, or personal context. It is an intense desire to make no mistakes, to generate a flawless result, or even to achieve an ideal. This quest can be introspective, driven by personal expectations, or extrinsic, shaped by the judgment and demands of others.
I am convinced that there are two categories of perfectionism. There is adaptive perfectionism. The one whose pursuit of excellence is associated with motivation, discipline, and commitment. This approach encourages one to excel, learn from their mistakes, and strive for constant improvement. Unfortunately, there is also dysfunctional perfectionism. Here, the demand leads to tension, dissatisfaction, and self-criticism. So we have difficulty being satisfied with our accomplishments, we focus more on our failures, and we can develop a paralyzing fear of making mistakes. We quickly learn to distance ourselves from this type of perfectionism because it causes suffering and dissatisfaction.

Perfectionism, when balanced, serves as a true catalyst for success. Perfectionists have a tendency to produce meticulous and thoughtful work. This demand promotes quality, excellence, innovation, and rigor. The determination to excel encourages not settling for the ordinary, persisting in effort, and cultivating a strong ability to overcome challenges of perseverance and discipline. Aspiring to high goals encourages self-evaluation and continuous adaptation, which can lead to significant personal and professional advancements.
Some fields even require meticulousness and attention to detail, such as medicine, aerospace, science, research, and the arts. In these environments, perfectionism is frequently valued, reduces the risk of error, and encourages innovation. However, this pursuit of the ideal also has drawbacks. The obsession with perfection can lead to relentless pressure, resulting in stress, anxiety, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Fearing inadequacy, many perfectionists postpone their tasks, dreading imperfection and suffering from procrastination. Even in case of success, the person fails to appreciate their achievements, focusing only on the imperfections. Dissatisfaction continually follows them. Personal demands also extend to others, making relationships complex, causing tension, misunderstanding, or a sense of inadequacy from loved ones and colleagues. In extreme cases, perfectionism can lead to burnout, depression, or obsessive-compulsive problems.

Perfectionism most frequently takes root in childhood, influenced by strict parental models, high social standards, or very demanding school experiences. It can also be exacerbated by cultural contexts that value performance and success. Social media, for example, continually presents idealized images, fueling the feeling of never being good enough. The challenge is not to eliminate all demands but to learn to coexist with this tendency without being overwhelmed. It must be recognized that error is inherent in the human condition and that imperfection is an essential element of the learning process. Reevaluate one's goals so that they are much more achievable by reconsidering one's abilities downwards. Learn to recognize your progress, even if minimal, and especially to avoid self-criticism in case of failure.

Ultimately, perfectionism is neither entirely a vice nor entirely a virtue. It resembles a double-edged instrument: beneficial if controlled, detrimental if abused. The key lies in the ability to achieve balance, using this desire to move forward without becoming a prisoner to it. Perfectionist individuals undoubtedly place significant value on their environment and professional sphere, provided they maintain their well-being and foster self-confidence. Recognizing one's limits and accepting the unexpected is just as crucial as striving for excellence.
So perfectionism should not imprison us but rather encourage us to deeply reflect on our expectations and our relationship with success. The essential thing is to convert an internal demand into a catalyst for fulfillment while keeping in mind that beauty sometimes lies in imperfection itself.

Tolerance

 

                                                                                 

Watercolor

Reflection on the boundaries of tolerance in an unjust world

Tolerance is frequently regarded as one of the most commendable human qualities. She facilitates the exchange of ideas, fosters dialogue, and establishes bridges between diverse perspectives on the world. In a pluralistic society, it fosters mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. However, this virtue may occasionally be turned against the individual or group that practices it, particularly when it is met with intransigence or intolerance.
Demonstrating tolerance in the face of intolerance may occasionally require one to confront their own limitations or to endure the arrogance or abuse of those who do not share this value. It eventually occurs that tolerance, without framework or discernment, becomes a gateway to excess and the power of intolerance. Therefore, it is imperative that tolerance not be naive; it must be accompanied by a clear understanding of its own boundaries and the ability to defend itself against what threatens it.
In conclusion, tolerance remains essential to communal life; however, it necessitates a perpetual state of vigilance. It is not a matter of accepting anything at any price; rather, it is a matter of recognizing when it is necessary to assert oneself in order to preserve the dignity and equilibrium of everyone. For it is in this clarity that tolerance remains a force, not a weakness.

Thus, with toxic people, you must avoid them and no longer invite them, as they are like poison that you ingest; they drain your energy, erode your self-esteem, and hinder your progress, even being jealous of it. They try to destroy your image and your good reputation. It is a campaign of familial alienation trying to isolate you from the people you love for their own self-promotion. But they cannot destroy the good deeds and good friendships that your best friends have witnessed. Truth prevails over lies.

Abandonment

Graphic watercolor

Whether it strikes suddenly like a clap of thunder or creeps stealthily, whether in a tangible, emotional, or symbolic manner, abandonment leaves a gaping scar on the soul, a wound whose healing seems impossible. This word contains a timeless human experience, affecting every individual, regardless of their age, culture, or era. Letting someone down, whether it's a child, an animal, a friend, a partner, or an elderly parent, can leave deep scars, like persistent marks caused by a sudden and unexpected rupture.

Leaving a child abandoned causes an irreparable tear. This can stem from financial problems, mental well-being, or family relationships. The repercussions on the child are of extreme severity: rejection, disruption of emotional bonds, and lasting alteration of emotional development.

Leaving an animal behind during a separation or trip reveals a lack of care, commitment, and foresight regarding its long-term care. Abandoned animals have the choice between finding refuge among humans or setting off on a solitary adventure. Left to their own devices, these individuals pose a potential threat, capable of triggering unfortunate incidents. When you injure the beloved animal and then abandon it, it can transform into a creature full of rage. Abandoning a friend is done in silence, but the pain remains just as loud. A beautiful friendship can fade away, swept away by the torments of disagreements, divergent values, or the miles that stretch between two kindred hearts. Letting go can be a solitary and tumultuous journey, but it can also be the fertile ground where self-discovery and the wisdom of human interactions blossom. The conclusion of a union, whether desired or imposed, represents a particularly difficult ordeal to endure. The reasons can vary between betrayal, discord, or excesses. Giving up can sometimes feel like losing a battle, but it is also an opportunity to ask essential questions about oneself. With the passage of the years, the phenomenon of elder neglect is gaining ground, thus posing an increasingly pressing challenge. The roots of these family conflicts can be found in a fertile ground of misunderstandings, heavy silences, prolonged absences, financial worries, or challenges related to the care of vulnerable relatives. The reasons that lead to abandonment are often the same: a shortage of resources, emotional obstacles, and unmet responsibilities. It happens that the act of abandonment stems from various social constraints, economic fluctuations, or cultural mindsets.

The repercussions of desertion are of extreme severity. These experiences leave behind a deep emotional imprint, sowing seeds of sadness, uncertainty, and despair in their wake. These torments can lead to dark thoughts, isolation, and a feeling of being set apart from society. The forgotten often carry within them the deep scars of the past. Sometimes, solidarity campaigns and the ability to access essential resources are crucial. The theme of abandonment has been so thoroughly explored by numerous artists, writers, and poets, as it resonates with the common human experience. Victor Hugo, in his masterful work Les Misérables, poignantly explores the theme of abandonment through the tragic destinies of Cosette, abandoned by her mother, and Jean Valjean, hunted by society. Artists, touched by abandonment, express their cruelty through dark hues, solitary forms, lost gazes, and abandoned settings. Art reveals what words attempt in vain to describe, offering a unique vision and emotion. The notion of abandonment, in its diversity, demands both communal and personal vigilance. By exploring the origins, repercussions, and possible solutions, it is conceivable to build a community imbued with kindness and solidarity. Each act of tenderness soothes hearts and weaves bonds between souls. When abandonment hurts, it does not necessarily conclude the story; it can transform into an opportunity for rebirth, rediscovery of our humanity, and a renewed love for oneself and for others.

 

Plastics

 

                                                                                

                                                                                        

       

                                                   

                                                                 Watercolor

                                                                                                      

It is simply astonishing to see how much plastics have infiltrated our daily lives, thus becoming indispensable players in our modern society. The materials, chameleons of the industry, juggle between modernity, utility, and endless ecological debates. Despite their image as a symbol of modernity, plastics actually have roots that delve deep into the 19th century. It was in 1869 that John Wesley Hyatt, an inventive mind from the United States, gave birth to the very first artificial polymer, poetically named celluloid. This innovative material was entrusted with the noble mission of replacing ivory in the design of billiard balls, in response to a growing demand for alternative options to natural resources, constantly exposed to depletion. At the turn of the 20th century, organic chemistry was advancing by leaps and bounds. In 1907, Leo Baekeland gave birth to Bakelite, a pioneer among plastics entirely created in the laboratory. It is with this discovery that the era of plastic materials begins, where unbridled imagination shapes a myriad of new substances, each with its unique properties.

The vast universe of "plastic" encompasses a variety of polymer materials, which primarily originate from oil refining, but nowadays, increasingly, renewable resources like cornstarch or sugarcane are trying to catch up. A polymer, like a necklace of giant pearls, is composed of multiple monomers linked to each other by chemical bonds, thus forming a gigantic molecular structure. Plastics are divided into two categories: thermoplastics, which are malleable under the influence of heat and recyclable, and thermosetting plastics, which harden permanently after being heated. It is crucial to make this distinction, as it determines how the material will be shaped, used, and especially recycled: polyethylene (PE), the most produced plastic in the world; polypropylene (PP), the most robust; polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in our bank cards; polystyrene (PS) for food packaging; polyethylene terephthalate (PET) used in beverage bottles; polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), our well-known Plexiglas for glazing; and polycarbonate (PC), very resistant to shocks, used in our helmets.

Plastics, therefore, reign supreme in the daily lives of humans. Packaging plays the role of guardians, jealously watching over the freshness of food, the potency of medicines, and the safety of consumer goods. In the automotive world, plastics are valued for their lightness and flexibility, while in the construction field, they are appreciated for their sturdiness and ability to withstand weather conditions. Healthcare professionals have embraced it in their routine for its hygienic aspect and affordable price. The magic of electronics works thanks to the insulation properties of plastic. Artificial fibers (polyester, nylon, acrylic) open up vast prospects for the world of fashion and the textile industry. It is thanks to their ability to bend and be adorned with colors that leisure activities and toys become accessible. Thus, plastics offer a multitude of advantages: they are lightweight, strong, malleable, economical, and also possess insulating properties.

Beneath this appearance of versatility also lie some challenges. The proliferation of these tiny pieces of plastic, measuring less than 5 mm, in the oceans, rivers, and soils, represents a real headache, particularly due to their ability to pollute the entire food chain. Plastics, like persistent guests, take centuries to disappear, leaving behind overflowing landfills and tainted landscapes. Certain ingredients, such as phthalates or bisphenol A, are suspected of playing party pooper with our hormones and the possibility of causing cancers. Most plastics come from a non-renewable and highly polluting fossil source. The handling of plastics, particularly those that are multilayered or contain additives, remains a significant concern due to the challenges related to sorting, collection, processing, and recycling, which are no less difficult.

The tide of plastic now represents one of the most colossal challenges of our time. Year after year, millions of tons of plastic pour into the oceans, leading to the disappearance of numerous animal species, disrupting marine ecosystems, and polluting freshwater reserves. The tiny pieces of plastic are born from the fragmentation of large waste or emerge directly from various sources such as cosmetics, synthetic clothing, or even tires. From now on, their influence spreads to the peaks of mountains and the depths of the abyss.

Given the magnitude of the situation, a multitude of projects are emerging. Promote an eco-responsible approach by encouraging thoughtful creation and purchasing, reducing the excessive use of packaging, especially non-recyclable ones, and encouraging the reuse of objects as much as possible. Encourage the emergence of sustainable practices by rethinking the way we sort, collect, and design objects in order to make their recycling easier and more efficient. Opting for plant-based polymers, capable of transforming into compost or blending into nature, can help reduce our environmental impact. Explore new avenues to create innovative materials, rethink recycling methods, and invent futuristic plastics that are consumed by bacteria or capable of naturally degrading. Ultimately, it is crucial to raise awareness among everyone, even the youngest, about the impact of plastic materials and the vital necessity of selective sorting.

It is imperative to realize that plastics, omnipresent in all sectors of our daily lives, will not suddenly vanish from the landscape. However, a global revolution is underway: governments, businesses, and citizens are mobilizing to reduce their consumption, promote recycling, and support nature-friendly solutions. The upcoming technological advances, combined with a shared desire, could very well be the key to restoring harmony between humans and this resource that is both precious and complexly polluting. In reality, exploring the world of plastics and understanding their uses and repercussions amounts to offering ourselves the possibility of imagining new approaches to consumption and manufacturing, marked by sobriety and respect for our overwhelmed planet.