Young Talent or Virtuose

 

Watercolor by Amarie

In my opinion, talent can be defined as a natural and innate ability that manifests from the very first moments of life. This aptitude can appear in various fields such as the arts, sciences, or sports. Subsequently, time is taken to develop, shape, and refine it to allow it to fully flourish. In adulthood, these individuals have developed remarkable skills that demonstrate exceptional potential and set them apart from others; they become virtuosos (music), famous artists (arts), geniuses (science), and athletes (sports).

When one looks up the definition of this term in the dictionary, one can only be struck by the lack of detail and precision surrounding it. Indeed, it is described as an exceptional ability in the intellectual or artistic field, without specifying other criteria or characteristics that define this talent. Is it possible that this ability is the result of a skill developed gradually through experience, a natural gift present from birth, or a simply innate inclination, or is it rather the result of a complex combination of one or several of these factors? The question of the nature of talent sparks lively debate among specialists, researchers, and people passionate about this subject. Indeed, the complexity and diversity of talents, whether innate or acquired, the multiple forms they can take, as well as the different fields in which they can be expressed, their genetic or non-genetic origins, their simultaneous manifestations of multiple gifts, and their evolutionary potential thanks to a supernatural physical and mental capacity. These fields notably include art in all its forms, the sports domain with its various disciplines, and the intellectual domain encompassing thought, creativity, and problem-solving.

 At what level of skill or ability must a person reach to be recognized as talented? Is it possible to spot certain signs that can reveal these talents? Yes, of course, such as an ability to quickly assimilate new information, a skill in finding original solutions to complex problems, or a passionate and constant interest in a particular field.

see Youtube: Violin virtuoso Yeonah Kim (10j) playing Vivaldi in airport of Rome with Julien Cohen on piano in august 2024

https://1drv.ms/v/c/d423ee36d84c527d/EZs6xZo-9IVCiJSWSyCsVEBFtC2_qr3l-cMm65X4Qr-3g

In summary, talent is a valuable component of human diversity, enriching society through the creativity, performances, and exceptional achievements it allows.

Alternative Proteins

  

 

One of my ancestors, a merchant, traded all kinds of seeds, selling them wholesale or retail, whether they were intended for consumption or not, to individuals, institutional kitchens, gardeners, or nurserymen. This profession shone brightly before, during, and after the Second World War.
During the turmoil of the war, faced with the scarcity of meat, people gradually embraced legumes, those precious seeds nestled in their plant-based pods, to sustain themselves. There were individuals who had completely given up meat, and at home, a large amount of beans, lentils, and peas were incorporated into the weekly menus. Everyone became engrossed in gardening, transforming every available space into fertile land: from terraces to balconies, each person passionately sowed vegetables, accompanied by delicious legumes in simple yet tasty recipes. After the end of the war, surprisingly, the general nutritional state had considerably improved. Nowadays, it is essential to highlight this food in our diet due to its numerous benefits for our well-being. Their nutritional qualities are already shining through. It is important to distinguish between forage legumes such as alfalfa, sainfoin, lupin, birdsfoot trefoil, clover, and vetch, and grain legumes intended for human consumption such as soybeans, fava beans, lentils (brown, green, coral, etc.), broad beans, beans (black, red, white, mungo, azuki, etc.), peas, and chickpeas.

Starchy foods include cereals (such as rice, semolina, and pasta) and potatoes, as well as various cereal flours used to make bread and pancakes (such as wheat, buckwheat, spelt, millet, and many others). On the other hand, let's look at legumes, which are packed with top-notch energy and play a crucial role in regulating hunger due to their high carbohydrate content with a low glycemic index. Presenting themselves in the form of starch accompanied by fiber and protein, these components offer top-notch fuel for the brain and muscles. They have the fabulous characteristic of containing no traces of gluten. Thanks to their exceptional fiber content, ranging from 4.5 to 16.5 g per 100 g once cooked, these foods make the goal of 25 g of fiber recommended per day more accessible. They serve as vigilant protectors, obstructing the absorption of fats and cholesterol, delaying the conversion of sugars, and averting the accumulation of undesirable residues in the intricate intestines. Dietary fibers play the role of a conductor in the intestinal ballet: they bulk up the stools, juggle with water in case of diarrhea, and prevent constipation. They encourage the flourishing of intestinal bacteria and help maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

The undeniable advantage of storing them in jars for extended periods without any concerns is evident. You can enjoy these legumes in a velouté, mashed, or simply after letting them infuse and simmer. The magic of cooking dried legumes works depending on the soaking and cooking time, which varies according to the type chosen. For example, to prepare chickpeas or beans, you need to let them soak in water overnight before subjecting them to a prolonged cooking session, lasting from 1 to 3 hours. When time is tight, you can opt for canned goods that you wash thoroughly before adding them to your recipes. Savory dishes like cassoulet, lentil stew, chili con carne, baked beans, and many others pair well with dried fruits. You can also invite them to dance in fresh salads, letting your imagination run wild or following the advice of a cookbook specialized in legumes

Love-Hate

 

                                                            XXL drawing by Anmarie

The month of May 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

 

XXL 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

                                                   XXL  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.