Love-Hate

 

                                                            XXL drawing by Anmarie

The month of May 2025 turned out to be a particularly intense period in terms of emotions, with a mix of both difficult and joyful moments that marked my mind. I didn't think it would be so easy for me to switch from love to hate. In general, my emotions evolve from anger to a bad mood without ever reaching the stage of a desire for revenge. Just like with primates, who are our genetic cousins, it is possible to observe that hatred is an integral part of human nature. Indeed, it helps shape our identity and gives structure to our existence. In the past, in my simplistic view of the world, I thought that the inherently good nature of human beings would allow them to eradicate completely the feeling of hate. It is fascinating to note that in human nature, feelings of love and hate can coexist simultaneously. These contradictory emotions sometimes coexist within us, pushing us to feel both affection and repulsion toward the same person or situation. When this feeling, sneaky and insidious, began to gradually creep into me, I felt a deep shame and intense anxiety, unable to recognize myself in this emotional state. Hatred, which manifests as a powerful force of exclusion and separation, finds its usefulness in protecting us from individuals we identify as our enemies. Human emotions, no matter how intense, can shift from one extreme to another in an instant, thus transforming the deepest love into burning hatred and causing sudden and surprising turnarounds. There is a fundamental duality between love and hate, two poles that are both opposing and complementary, constantly present to shape our dynamics in social and emotional relationships. When the attachment between two people is deep and strong, the separation that occurs between them becomes more painful and difficult to endure. Hatred manifests through a combination of physical and mental actions aimed at distancing oneself from the intense and destructive pain that ensues. When feelings of hatred overwhelm us, they tend to influence our daily behavior and dictate our reactions to the situations and people around us. When we find ourselves in a situation where we lose control, it sometimes happens that we get caught in a complex and difficult-to-master process, leaving us at the mercy of forces beyond our control. It is crucial to take measures to stop this process as soon as possible to prevent any progression toward the deterioration and ruin of our future prospects. It is essential to focus on what contributes to our personal growth and to distance ourselves from toxic individuals who might hinder our positive development. 

 

Racisme

 

From a very young age, since my tender childhood, I have unfortunately been confronted with situations where racism was present in my environment, affecting me directly or indirectly. At first, I was confronted with complete incomprehension. However, as I grew up, transitioning from adolescence to adulthood, I gradually came to understand this absurd ideology more deeply. I particularly took into account the fact that we share a common origin, coming from the same ancestor, who is none other than our cousin the monkey. In reality, it is interesting to note that the genetic material of these primates differs from ours by only 1%, which highlights the closeness of our respective DNAs. Subsequently, in the evolution of the human species, one can observe the emergence of different species such as Homo erectus, Neanderthals, Homo sapiens, and so on, thus marking a gradual diversification over time. The transition of humanity from a nomadic lifestyle, where individuals constantly moved to hunt and gather their food, to a sedentary lifestyle, characterized by the practice of livestock farming and agriculture, led to a significant differentiation in human societies. This evolution allowed for the development of more structured communities, the creation of villages and cities, as well as the emergence of new forms of social and political organization. The living conditions that human beings must face include various aspects such as the type of habitat in which they evolve, the climate to which they are exposed, and the availability of food that is offered to them. These elements compel humans to develop adaptive capacities to meet the specific demands of each environment, which are distinguished by their resources and the survival opportunities they offer. It took millennia for this process of adaptation to shape a set of varied physical characteristics, including morphology, skin pigmentation, and lifestyles. This has greatly contributed to the diversity observed within different races, cultures, and ethnicities around the world. It's like in my watercolor palette, you can notice an impressive variety of bright and subtle colors. This diversity of shades and nuances enriches the color palette at my disposal, bringing it depth and richness that make it even more captivating and inspiring. In my opinion, it is the same for human beings to enrich themselves with both physical and mental diversity rather than a depletion. This diversity, whether visible through physical differences between individuals or more subtle at the level of experiences and thoughts, contributes to personal enrichment and open-mindedness. Intellectual development has evolved diversely within different populations, depending on the circumstances and the specific means of development for each of them. Declaring categorically that certain groups of people possess an innate superiority over others is a perilous, unjust, and inequitable approach, which can lead to tensions and conflicts within society. Fortunately, in many countries, acts such as insults, contempt, and defamation, which are manifestations of racism, are legally considered offenses. This means that these discriminatory behaviors are reprehensible by law and subject to sanctions.

Alzheimer

 

Watercolor by Herman Van Hoogdalem

Since the aging of the population, the risk of encountering a larger number of people affected by this disease is concerning, as it is a dehumanizing illness that inevitably reduces a human being to the state of a plant.
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological condition that is one of the main causes of dementia worldwide. Discovered by Dr. Alois Alzheimer in 1906, this disease affects millions of people, disrupting not only the lives of patients but also those of their loved ones. Although often associated with aging, it is not a normal consequence of age. This article explores the origins, symptoms, current treatments, and support strategies to better understand and manage this complex disease.
Alzheimer's disease is characterized by the abnormal accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles formed by tau proteins in the brain. These anomalies lead to the progressive destruction of neurons, thereby disrupting the transmission of brain information.
Several factors increase the risk of developing the disease: age, genetics, cardiovascular diseases, lack of physical activity, an unbalanced diet, and social isolation.
The first symptoms of Alzheimer's disease are often confused with normal signs of aging. However, their intensity and impact increase over time. Among the main manifestations are memory disorders, disorientation, behavioral changes, language difficulties, and loss of autonomy.
The diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is based on a series of clinical and neurological examinations: cognitive tests, brain imaging, and biological analyses to exclude dementia.
To date, no curative treatment exists, but several approaches allow for slowing the progression of symptoms: medication (acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and memantine), cognitive stimulation, daily physical exercise, managing hypertension and diabetes, and a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Alzheimer's disease remains a major challenge for modern medicine and societies around the world. If the exact causes are not yet fully understood, current research is bringing promising advances in early diagnosis and treatments. In the meantime, prevention and support remain essential pillars for improving the quality of life for patients and their families. Preparing to face this disease also means strengthening society to accept it.

Courage

 

                                                      watercolor made in Salzburg by Amarie                                             

Life, in all its complexity, is rarely fair. Some are born surrounded by promises and privileges, while others begin their journey under unfavorable auspices, marked by the pain of an incurable disease, rare genetically transmitted disabilities, poverty, or repeated hardships. True courage lies in the ability to face these adversities and embrace existence, even when the stars seem not to shine for you. This may mean growing up in a difficult environment, facing injustices, or not having the same opportunities as others. Yet, the first step towards a better future is to accept this fate as the foundation upon which one can build one’s destiny. From then on, recognize the wounds and challenges while refusing to let them dictate every aspect of your existence, transforming pain into a driving force. Being resilient means having the ability to bounce back after failures, to learn from mistakes, and to keep moving forward despite obstacles.
Dreaming is perhaps the most audacious act; it requires faith, hope, and sometimes even blindness to the realities of life. But dreams are the engine of change, requiring obstinate courage, strength, and unwavering determination, demanding belief in the idea that the stars, no matter how distant, can be reached with enough will and effort. The courage to embrace life when circumstances seem unfavorable is a deeply human and inspiring act. It reminds us that challenges are not walls, but steps that elevate us towards our greatest successes. Being born under a bad star can be the beginning of a story of transformation and triumph, where the light eventually shines, not in the sky, but in the hearts of those who never give up.

During a Flemish television show, I was touched by the performance of Karl, a 44-year-old participant who is almost blind. Every week, in collaboration with his coach Margot, he impresses with his bravery, determination, and human qualities during his performances on the dance floor. Despite the rare disease he suffers from, which has gradually deprived him of his sight since the age of 16, Karl participates with remarkable enthusiasm in the show "Dancing with the Stars." His journey, marked by successive trials such as a kidney stone, surgery for abdominal cancer, and the loss of his mother, is poignant and inspires our admiration. The stages that are accepted without opposition and accompanied by an adaptation to new challenges include the revocation of the driver's license, the loss of the ability to read, the loss of independence, and the loss of the ability to write, to witness the growth of one's child, to look at oneself in the mirror, etc. This leads us to the conclusion that, even in unfavorable conditions from birth, it is essential not to be discouraged but to fight against adversity daily.

Hierarchy

                                                      Watercolor by Amarie, Lady in Blue

Nowadays, we are faced with cohorts of young people who refuse to be directed at work, while parents and teachers struggle to maintain their authority and gain respect, unlike in the past. Human interactions have undergone a radical transformation; beyond a simple conflict between generations, authority has shifted to a dynamic based on friendship, listening, and humility. The elderly find themselves disoriented in the face of this unprecedented era where cohabiting in a society with transformed norms is the norm. For my part, I feel neither regret nor nostalgia for the past. What I miss is the preparation and understanding of young people in the face of socioeconomic upheavals. It is time to trade wise and experienced authority for the delicate art of inspiring enthusiasm, giving profound meaning to our choices to persuade the younger generation of the alignment of our actions with their own burgeoning values. We are trading hierarchical verticality for horizontality without warning. Most young generations aspire to escape at all costs from submission, dependency and loss of independence, harassment, stress, burnout, and lack of recognition. This quest for freedom is legitimate, but it can sometimes be taken to the extreme. You slam the door at work for any reason; a hint of disdain, a touch of indifference, choices that seem far-fetched, or even a categorical refusal to work remotely can be enough to push you out the door. At home, it's the same refrain: young people take off to conquer their independence or their identity. As soon as a disagreement arises, they take off. It is preferable for parents to cultivate a friendly relationship with their children rather than sticking to a strict authority role. They should promote collaboration and encourage autonomy with kindness and caution. In my opinion, an exemplary parent, just like a competent manager, must be able to make decisions, take decisive actions, and provide the guiding thread to maintain harmony within the family and ensure the sustainability of a business in an increasingly competitive world. Obviously, ethical, social, and environmental requirements demand increased transparency and the emergence of new forms of responsibility among the various actors involved. For some, these new constraints are sometimes seen as insurmountable mountains, especially when they radically oppose what prevailed in the past. Will this transformation be able to fulfill its commitments to shape a more enlightened society in the future? Companies will embark on management coaching with their employees, while in households, bonds will be woven in a friendly atmosphere, imbued with flexibility and warmth. Is this a reason to rejoice? Yes, of course, because when people are happy, admired, and respected, they are working in a better mental atmosphere to be more productive.

Shaping new friendships

 

                                                                  Watercolor by Amarie

Making new friendships in adulthood can feel like a real obstacle course; while as children it was enough to share a snack or a game to create bonds, things become more complicated over time. Why this increasing difficulty? As we age, our social circles become more stable but also more closed. Schooling, extracurricular activities, or early professional experiences offered numerous opportunities to meet people. Except that once these stages are over, opportunities for contact often decrease; according to experts, adults tend to maintain their existing friendships rather than actively seek out new ones. This stability is reassuring but can also limit new chance encounters. The effective remedy would be to join collective activities such as sports clubs, creative workshops, or associations to expand one's social circle. Evening classes or book clubs are excellent opportunities to forge new connections around shared interests. Because once you are fully immersed in the working life, between professional, family, and personal responsibilities, finding time to maintain relationships becomes more than complex. The energy that once could be dedicated to outings and new encounters is now being eaten away by increasingly overwhelming daily obligations. The constraints of time, organization, and the fatigue from daily work limit opportunities for social encounters. But it is a mistake not to regularly plan moments dedicated to our social relationships, even with a tight schedule. A simple coffee, a walk, or a phone call can already help rekindle a neglected connection. As we age, our heightened vigilance encourages us to grant our trust more cautiously. If this caution is legitimate, it nevertheless hinders new encounters. We are more concerned with finding people who share our values and interests. But we must keep in mind that we should not systematically reject other opportunities for connection. Sometimes the most unexpected friendships become the strongest with points of interest that one would have excluded. We must remain available and open to the people who cross our path by chance. As we get older, we actually become too selective. Past experiences, accumulated disappointments, and cooled expectations are now a heavy burden to bear. The fear of new disappointments, unexpected rejection, or experienced social discomfort can push us to remain confined in a comfort zone. Social media, which allows for a certain artificial contact, will never replace the richness of face-to-face interactions. Let's dare to start conversations with new people in everyday contexts: at the gym, in a new language class or any course, or in your neighborhood. A smile, an innocuous question, or an impromptu conversation can open the doors to a new friendship. Sometimes friendships require a lot of effort to be maintained; keeping in touch often demands a true commitment. The differences in lifestyle, relocations, career changes, or career breaks can distance loyal friends. Strengthening bonds through travel or a shared activity can make a difference. Making friends thus becomes more difficult as one gets older, but far from impossible. By becoming aware of the obstacles and adopting a simple strategy, in fact, each person can enrich their social circle. That said, it is also perfectly legitimate not to feel the need to forge new friendships. Each person defines their social relationships according to their desires, priorities, and well-being. 

Aging

                                                             watercolor by Amarie

The advances made in medicine, in terms of diagnostics, medications, and care, have allowed most individuals in the current generation to age in optimal physical and mental conditions. They are greatly pleased to be able to continue their lives in an almost normal manner, to participate in enriching activities, to benefit from rewarding social relationships, and to witness the growth in age and wisdom of their descendants. The evolution of aging is a natural phenomenon, and each bodily change constitutes an essential step in this journey. Changes such as wrinkling of the skin, the graying of the hair, and the alteration of the silhouette are inherent transformations of life. It is necessary to learn to embrace these changes rather than reject them. Wrinkles should not be seen as imperfections but rather as witnesses to the various emotions experienced, whether joyful, loving, or painful. The face, as a sculptural reproduction of life, bears the indelible marks of all emotions expressed upon it, thus testifying to our experiences like an open book. Each feature of the skin, each silver hair, and each scar are witnesses to moments of modest triumphs and his capacity for resilience.

At every stage of life, from early childhood to old age, our body demonstrates an impressive physical and mental capacity to perform feats, recover, and rebuild incredibly quickly. It is entirely possible to train and develop athletic skills even at an advanced age. By committing to regular practice, it's possible to improve physical performance, endurance, and athletic achievements. This body, through its ability to successfully meet numerous challenges, allows for unforgettable experiences and aging in good conditions.

A person's worth is not limited to their appearance but rather depends on their personality, core values, actions, and how they interact with others and the world around them. It is important not to be too hard on oneself when evaluating our actions in performances. Instead of being too hard on oneself, it is preferable to replace these self-evaluations with positive, reassuring, comforting, and kind words.

One must be attentive to surrounding oneself with people who value, regardless of their social class, race, origin, language, culture, or religion. The most important thing is to focus on healthy and positive relationships, where incessant criticism is absent and where one is appreciated without judgment or criticism, considering qualities, flaws, values, and beliefs and accepting them in their entirety. Aging is a period of life during which individuals gradually accumulate experience, wisdom, and depth. It is a phase of life where individuals can learn, grow, and develop a richer and more nuanced perspective through the various experiences lived over the years. Despite these inevitable physical changes, the spark of life inhabits them; this mysterious and immutable inner strength remains eternal, testifying to the vitality and resilience of the human being. It is important to adopt a calm and thoughtful approach to the natural process of aging. The latter should not be seen as a final stage but rather as the beginning of a journey towards deeper self-acceptance imbued with serenity and strength more intense than ever.