Calendula, often called “pot marigold,” is a cheerful, easy-to-grow flower that offers more than just beauty. Its vibrant orange and yellow blooms brighten any garden space. Discover how this humble annual can become a versatile addition to your landscape.

Planting calendula is wonderfully simple. Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade for optimal blooming. It thrives in well-draining soil and can tolerate a variety of conditions. Sow seeds directly in spring after the last frost. Get ready for colorful blooms.

Caring for calendula is a breeze, making it perfect for novice gardeners. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging the soil. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season. Enjoy a prolonged burst of color.

Beyond its ornamental appeal, calendulas is a fantastic companion plant. Its presence can deter pests like aphids and nematodes, protecting nearby vegetables. It also attracts beneficial pollinators, boosting your garden’s overall health. A true friend to your plants.

The magic of calendula extends to its edible flowers. The petals add a pop of color and a mild, peppery flavor to salads. You can also use them to dye rice or infuse oils. Elevate your culinary creations with fresh calendula.

Medicinally, calendula is renowned for its healing properties. It’s often used in salves, creams, and teas for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects. It can soothe skin irritations, minor cuts, and even insect bites. Harness nature’s healing touch.

Harvesting calendula petals is easy. Simply pluck the fresh, vibrant petals from the flower heads when they are fully open. For drying, spread them on a screen in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Preserve nature’s goodness.

From vibrant garden displays to edible delights and soothing remedies, calendula offers a multitude of benefits. It’s a resilient, rewarding plant that truly gives back. Embrace the joy of growing this remarkable flower. Start your calendula journey today!

In Marxist thought, estrangement, or alienation, is a central concept describing the profound disconnection experienced by individuals within capitalist society. It refers to the separation of workers from various aspects of their labor, their products, their fellow human beings, and ultimately, their own human potential.

Marx identified four primary forms of alienation under capitalism. Firstly, workers are alienated from the product of their labor. The goods they produce do not belong to them but to the capitalist who owns the means of production. The more they produce, the less they possess.

Secondly, workers experience alienation from the act of labor itself. Instead of being a fulfilling and creative activity, work becomes a forced means of survival, controlled and dictated by the capitalist. There is little autonomy or intrinsic satisfaction in the labor process.

Thirdly, capitalism fosters alienation from other workers. Competition for jobs and the hierarchical nature of the workplace can create divisions and prevent the development of genuine solidarity and community among the proletariat.

Finally, and most profoundly, workers suffer from alienation from their own human essence or species-being. Their capacity for creative, conscious, and social activity is stifled by the dehumanizing conditions of capitalist production, reducing them to mere instruments of labor.

Marx argued that this estrangement is not an inherent aspect of human existence but a direct consequence of the capitalist mode of production and its emphasis on private ownership and profit maximization. The very structure of capitalism necessitates the exploitation and dehumanization of the working class.

Overcoming estrangement, according to Marx, is intrinsically linked to the abolition of capitalism and the establishment of a communist society. In a communist system, where the means of production are collectively owned and controlled, labor can become a truly human and fulfilling activity.

By eliminating private property and the division of labor based on exploitation, communism aims to reintegrate individuals with their labor, their products, their fellow human beings, and their own human potential. This re-appropriation of their alienated capacities is central to human liberation in Marxist thought.

The mid-20th century witnessed the dramatic and often tumultuous dismantling of long-standing European colonial empires across the vast continents of Asia and Africa. A potent and complex combination of intertwined factors powerfully fueled this historic wave of decolonization, fundamentally altering the global political map. The devastating Second World War significantly weakened major European powers, both economically through immense war debts and politically by eroding their international standing and exposing their inherent vulnerability to challenge.

The remarkable rise of fervent and increasingly well-organized nationalist movements within the colonies themselves ultimately proved to be the most decisive and transformative force driving decolonization. Western-educated local elites and dynamic grassroots organizations effectively mobilized diverse populations, unified by a shared aspiration, passionately demanding self-determination and an immediate end to often oppressive and exploitative foreign rule.

The deeply ingrained desire for genuine independence, powerfully fueled by a burgeoning sense of distinct national identity and often inspired by potent anti-colonial ideologies and the principle of self-governance, evolved into an unstoppable and irresistible force for change.

The newly established United Nations, emerging from the ashes of World War II, also played a crucial and increasingly influential role in the decolonization process by providing a vital platform for previously marginalized anti-colonial voices to be heard on the global stage and by exerting significant international diplomatic and moral pressure on reluctant colonial powers to finally grant independence to their long-held territories.

The intense Cold War rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union, each vying for global influence, further complicated the geopolitical situation, with both superpowers often strategically supporting various anti-colonial movements as a means to weaken their primary adversaries’ existing spheres of control and expand their own.

The multifaceted process of decolonization was far from uniform in its execution or consistently peaceful in its outcome across different regions and colonies. While some nations were ultimately able to achieve their hard-won independence through relatively peaceful negotiations and diplomatic transitions of power, a significant number of others were tragically forced to endure protracted and often bloody struggles for liberation, including devastating armed conflicts and widespread violent resistance movements against entrenched colonial administrations.

Surabaya, a vibrant metropolis in East Java, comes alive with solemnity and devotion during Holy Week. A particularly moving tradition observed by the Christian community is the Stations of the Cross, a visual and spiritual journey commemorating the final hours of Jesus Christ. Churches across Surabaya meticulously stage these stations, offering a powerful experience for worshippers and onlookers alike.  

The visual journey begins with depictions of Jesus’ condemnation and follows his path through various stages of suffering, carrying the cross, falling, meeting his mother, and ultimately his crucifixion and burial. Each station is often intricately crafted with statues, paintings, or live reenactments, allowing participants to deeply reflect on the sacrifice made. The atmosphere in these churches is often filled with quiet contemplation, prayer, and a sense of shared faith.  

For many in Surabaya, participating in the Stations of the Cross is a central part of their Holy Week observance. It provides a tangible way to connect with the biblical narrative and deepen their spiritual understanding of the Passion of Christ. The visual storytelling transcends language barriers, offering a profound and emotional experience for people of all backgrounds.  

Beyond the religious significance, the Stations of the Cross in Surabaya also offer a glimpse into the city’s diverse cultural and religious landscape. The dedication and artistry displayed in creating these visual representations highlight the strong faith community within Surabaya. This tradition not only strengthens the spiritual lives of its participants but also contributes to the rich tapestry of Surabaya’s cultural heritage. Experiencing the Stations of the Cross in Surabaya is a powerful reminder of faith, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of Holy Week.

The artistic interpretations at each station often reflect local cultural nuances, adding a unique Surabayan flavor to this global religious practice.These visual narratives serve as poignant reminders of history and faith, drawing both the devout and the curious into a shared moment of reflection during this significant week.

A recently enacted TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces) law has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, with concerns mounting that it breaches democratic values and the military’s core mandate. Analysts, human rights advocates, and civil society organizations argue that the legislation represents a step backward for Indonesia’s democratic reforms and could lead to an overreach of military influence in civilian affairs.  

One of the primary points of contention is the expansion of the TNI’s authority beyond its traditional defense role. The new law includes provisions that [mention a key controversial point based on the search results, e.g., allow active military officers to hold more civilian government posts without resigning, or extend the retirement age of high-ranking officers]. Critics argue that such provisions blur the lines between the military and civilian spheres, potentially undermining civilian supremacy and accountability – a cornerstone of democratic governance. This is seen as a direct breach of the intended separation of powers.  

Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the legislative process itself. Many criticize the lack of transparency and meaningful public consultation during the drafting and passage of the law. This rushed process, conducted with limited public input, is seen as a violation of democratic principles that emphasize openness and participation in lawmaking. The absence of robust debate and consideration of dissenting voices further fuels the criticism that the law breaches fundamental democratic values.  

The potential consequences of the new TNI law are also a major worry. Critics fear a resurgence of the military’s “dual function” (dwifungsi), a doctrine from the authoritarian Suharto era where the military held significant influence in civilian governance. Allowing active military personnel to occupy more civilian posts could lead to conflicts of interest, undermine meritocracy in civilian institutions, and ultimately weaken democratic oversight. This expanded role is seen as a deviation from the TNI‘s primary mandate of national defense.  

In conclusion, the newly enacted TNI law faces significant opposition, with critics asserting that it breaches democratic values by blurring the lines between military and civilian authority, lacking transparency in its passage, and potentially exceeding the TNI‘s core mandate.

Who says you have to sacrifice Style Meets Sustainability? Creating a beautiful and eco-conscious home is entirely achievable by making thoughtful choices that benefit both your aesthetic preferences and the planet. It’s about embracing a green approach to design that celebrates both form and function while minimizing environmental impact. Let’s explore how you can blend Style Meets Sustainability your home décor.

Invest in Timeless & Sustainable Furniture: Opt for furniture crafted from sustainable materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, or FSC-certified timber. Choose classic designs that transcend fleeting trends, ensuring your pieces remain stylish for years to come, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Embrace the Beauty of Secondhand: Give pre-loved furniture and décor a new lease on life by exploring thrift stores, vintage shops, and online marketplaces. These unique finds often add character and history to your space while diverting items from landfills. A fresh coat of eco-friendly paint or some creative reupholstering can transform them into stylish statement pieces.  

Choose Natural & Organic Textiles: Select fabrics made from natural and organic fibers like organic cotton, linen, hemp, and wool for your curtains, upholstery, and bedding. These materials are often produced with fewer pesticides and chemicals, making them better for your health and the environment.  

Illuminate with Energy Efficiency: Replace traditional light bulbs with energy-saving LEDs. They consume significantly less energy and last much longer, reducing your carbon footprint and saving you money on electricity bills. Maximize natural light by using sheer curtains and strategically placing mirrors.  

Decorate with Nature’s Palette: Bring the beauty of the outdoors inside with houseplants. They not only enhance your décor with their vibrant greenery but also improve air quality. Choose native or drought-tolerant varieties to minimize water usage. Consider using natural elements like stones, shells, and branches as decorative accents.

Upcycle & DIY with Creativity: Reduce waste and add a personal touch by upcycling old items into new décor. Turn glass jars into stylish storage, repurpose old pallets into unique wall art, or create your own throw pillows from fabric scraps. DIY projects are a fun and sustainable way to express your style.

Prepare to be enchanted by Tillandsia usneoides, the ethereal epiphyte more commonly known as Spanish Moss. This fascinating air plant, often draping gracefully from trees in the southern United States and parts of Latin America, possesses a unique charm and a host of wonders waiting to be discovered. Despite its name, it’s neither Spanish nor a true moss, but a bromeliad, closely related to pineapples.  

One of the most captivating aspects of Spanish Moss is its rootless existence. Unlike most plants, it doesn’t rely on soil for sustenance. Instead, it absorbs moisture and nutrients directly from the air and rainwater through specialized scales called trichomes that cover its slender, silvery-grey stems and leaves. This epiphytic nature allows it to thrive by simply clinging to the branches of host trees, often forming long, cascading curtains that can reach impressive lengths.  

The appearance of Spanish Moss is truly unique. Its delicate, thread-like stems and leaves create a soft, flowing texture that adds a touch of mystery and romance to its surroundings. The silvery-grey hue, which turns a subtle green when wet, further enhances its otherworldly charm. While it may appear delicate, Spanish Moss is surprisingly resilient and can withstand a range of environmental conditions, though it thrives in humid environments with good air circulation.  

Adding to its wonders, Spanish Moss plays a significant ecological role. It provides shelter and nesting material for various wildlife, including birds, bats, and even spiders. Its ability to trap moisture and nutrients also contributes to the local ecosystem. Furthermore, it has been used by humans for centuries for various purposes, from stuffing mattresses and car seats to crafting decorations and even in traditional medicine.  

While flowering is relatively rare, mature Spanish Moss can produce small, inconspicuous, pale green or bluish flowers that are most fragrant at night. These blooms eventually give way to small seed capsules with hairy sails, aiding in wind dispersal, allowing this unique plant to colonize new areas. Propagation is also easily achieved through division – simply separating strands and placing them on a new host.  

For avid readers, the joy of getting lost in a good book often extends into the evening hours. However, reading in inadequate lighting can lead to eye strain and discomfort. This is where the significance of having a dedicated reading lamp becomes apparent. A good reading lamp provides focused and adjustable light, ensuring optimal illumination for comfortable and enjoyable nighttime reading, ultimately contributing to better eye health and a more pleasant reading experience.

One of the primary reasons a reading lamp is essential for nighttime reading is its ability to minimize eye strain. When reading in dim ambient light, the eyes have to work harder to focus on the text, which can lead to fatigue, headaches, and even blurred vision over time. A reading , positioned correctly, directs a concentrated beam of light onto the pages, reducing the contrast between the bright text and the dark surroundings. This makes it easier for the eyes to focus and reduces the strain they experience. Optometrist Dr. Emily Carter, speaking at the “National Eye Health Symposium” in London on May 1, 2025, emphasized the importance of adequate task lighting, like a reading lamp, to prevent eye fatigue.

Furthermore, a reading lamp offers versatility and adjustability, allowing readers to customize the lighting to their specific needs and preferences. Many modern reading lamps come with adjustable arms and heads, enabling users to direct the light exactly where it’s needed. Some even offer dimming options, allowing for further control over the light intensity. This adaptability ensures a comfortable reading environment regardless of the surrounding ambient light.

Beyond eye health, a good reading lamp can also enhance the overall reading experience. The focused light creates a cozy and inviting reading nook, making it easier to immerse oneself in the book without distractions from the darker surroundings. It also prevents the light from disturbing others in the room, allowing for peaceful coexistence, especially in shared living spaces or bedrooms. Investing in a quality reading lamp is therefore an investment in both your eye health and your reading pleasure.

Celine Dion, born March 30, 1968, stands as a testament to unwavering resilience in the face of life’s profound challenges. Her journey, marked by extraordinary vocal talent and immense global success, has also been punctuated by personal hardships that she has navigated with remarkable strength and grace. Remembering Celine Dion’s resilience means acknowledging not just a legendary vocalist, but a woman who embodies perseverance and the enduring power of the human spirit.  

Dion’s rise to international stardom began in the 1980s, with her powerful vocals and emotive performances captivating audiences worldwide. Her breakthrough hit, “The Power of Love,” solidified her place as a global icon, and her subsequent success with the theme song for the movie “Titanic,” “My Heart Will Go On,” cemented her legendary status. Her career has been defined by her exceptional vocal range, passionate delivery, and a remarkable ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.  

However, Celine Dion’s journey has also been marked by significant personal challenges. The loss of her beloved husband and manager, René Angélil, in 2016, after a long battle with cancer, was a profound and public heartbreak. Her unwavering strength in navigating this immense grief, while also caring for their children and continuing her performing career, showcased her extraordinary resilience. She spoke openly about her pain and her determination to honor René’s memory, inspiring countless individuals facing similar loss.  

More recently, Celine Dion has been candid about her battle with Stiff-Person Syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that has significantly impacted her ability to perform. Her openness in sharing her diagnosis and her determination to manage the condition and potentially return to the stage have further highlighted her incredible resilience. Despite the immense physical and emotional toll of this illness, she has remained a symbol of hope and perseverance for her fans and others living with chronic conditions.  

A somber discovery has been made in the vicinity of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Soetta) as a Chinese national was found deceased within the airport area. Local police authorities have confirmed the incident and are currently conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the individual’s death.

The discovery of the Chinese national’s body has understandably garnered attention and raised questions. While the victim’s identity has been established, further detailed information regarding the timeline of the discovery and potential causes of death has yet to be released by the authorities. It is anticipated that further identification processes and an autopsy will be conducted to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

As a primary gateway to Indonesia, the Soetta Airport area maintains a high level of security. Therefore, the discovery of a deceased individual within this zone is a matter of significant concern. The police are expected to issue a comprehensive official statement promptly to avoid unfounded speculation among the public.

This incident will undoubtedly prompt a heightened state of alert and increased surveillance across the entire airport area by airport management and security personnel. Preventative measures will likely be re-evaluated and reinforced to prevent similar occurrences in the future and to ensure the safety and security of all airport users.

The ongoing investigation by the police is expected to proceed smoothly and transparently. Accurate and reliable information is crucial to provide justice for the victim and their family, as well as to maintain public trust in the security of the Soetta Airport vicinity.

For the time being, the public is urged to refrain from speculation and to fully trust the investigative process being carried out by the authorities. Further developments and information regarding this case will continue to be monitored and communicated by the police once the investigation reaches a conclusive point.