Once upon a time, in a vibrant garden where colors danced in the sunlight, there bloomed a rose unlike any other. This rose, with petals that shimmered in hues of orange and gold, held a secret deep within its heart—a tiny, enchanted frog named Liora.
Liora had lived in the rose for as long as she could remember, protected by the soft petals that surrounded her. She was no ordinary frog; she was a guardian of dreams, tasked with watching over the hopes and wishes of those who wandered into the garden. Each night, as the stars twinkled above, Liora would listen to the whispers of dreams carried by the gentle breeze.
One day, a young girl named Elara stumbled upon the garden. Drawn by the intoxicating fragrance of the magical rose, she approached, her heart heavy with unfulfilled dreams. She had always longed to be an artist, but fear held her back. As she gazed at the rose, Liora felt a spark of connection. The girl’s dreams resonated with the magic of the garden.
With a flick of her tiny tongue, Liora cast a spell of inspiration. The rose began to glow, and the air filled with sparkling lights that danced around Elara. She felt a rush of creativity and courage, as if the garden itself was urging her to embrace her passion.
Elara closed her eyes, and in that moment, she envisioned herself painting vibrant landscapes, capturing the beauty of the world around her. The rose shimmered brighter, and Liora knew that the girl’s dreams were taking flight.
When Elara opened her eyes, she felt transformed. The weight of doubt had lifted, replaced by a newfound determination. She thanked the rose, unaware of the tiny guardian within, and promised to return to the garden, to share her art and the magic it held.
As days turned into weeks, Elara visited the garden often, each time bringing her sketches and paintings. Liora watched with joy as the girl blossomed into the artist she was meant to be. The rose, once a mere flower, became a symbol of hope and inspiration for all who entered the garden.
And so, the enchanted rose and its tiny guardian continued to weave dreams into reality, reminding everyone that within the heart of a flower lies the power to inspire and create magic.
Countries I Want to Visit and Why: A Personal Journey
Traveling isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about chasing stories, feelings, and moments that make the world feel bigger and closer at the same time. Scotland, the Netherlands, Ireland, and England and Wales (Great Britain) have been on my mind for years, each pulling me in with their unique histories, landscapes, and cultures. Here’s why I’m drawn to these places and what I hope to experience in each.
1. Scotland Scotland feels like it’s calling my soul with its wild, untamed beauty. I imagine standing on a windswept cliff in the Highlands, breathing in the crisp air, surrounded by jagged mountains and shimmering lochs. I’m fascinated by its history—castles like Eilean Donan and Stirling whisper tales of clans, rebellions, and resilience. I want to wander Edinburgh’s cobblestone streets during the Fringe Festival, soaking in the energy of performers and storytellers. The thought of sipping a peaty single malt whisky by a pub fire, listening to a local share tales of folklore like the Loch Ness Monster, makes me feel connected to something ancient. Scotland’s rugged charm and proud culture feel like a place where I could lose myself and find something new.
2. The Netherlands The Netherlands strikes me as a perfect blend of creativity and calm. I picture myself cycling along Amsterdam’s canals, the water reflecting colorful, gabled houses as I head to the Van Gogh Museum to stand in front of Sunflowers, feeling the passion in every brushstroke. Beyond the city, I’m eager to visit Keukenhof in spring, where endless tulip fields in reds, yellows, and pinks would be a photographer’s dream. I’m curious about the Dutch way of life—how they’ve mastered balance, from their eco-friendly cities to cozy cafés serving stroopwafels. I want to visit historic towns like Utrecht or Delft, where time feels slower, and maybe even try my hand at a windmill tour to understand this innovative country’s past. The Netherlands feels like a place where art and serenity meet, and I want to soak it all in.
3. Ireland Ireland’s pull is almost mythical. I want to drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, with its green hills rolling into the sea and dramatic Cliffs of Moher rising against crashing waves. I’m captivated by Ireland’s ancient Celtic heritage—sites like Newgrange, older than the pyramids, make me want to trace the steps of ancestors. I can’t wait to settle into a Galway pub, where live music fills the air with fiddles and laughter, and locals share stories over a pint of Guinness. Ireland’s warmth, its blend of joy and melancholy in its music and poetry, feels like it would speak to my heart. Whether exploring Dublin’s literary haunts or hiking in Connemara, I want to feel the pulse of a land that’s both vibrant and timeless.
4. England and Wales (Great Britain) England and Wales together feel like a tapestry of history, culture, and adventure. In England, I’m drawn to London’s electric energy—standing in Trafalgar Square, visiting the British Museum, or catching a West End show. But I also crave the quiet of the Cotswolds, with its stone villages that look like they’re from a storybook. Stonehenge is a must, not just for its mystery but to feel the weight of thousands of years under my feet. I’m a bit of a literature nerd, so walking in the footsteps of Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon or visiting Jane Austen’s Bath would be a dream. In Wales, I’m itching to explore Snowdonia’s peaks, maybe even try hiking up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) for a view that takes my breath away. Castles like Caernarfon and the Welsh language’s lyrical sound pull me to a culture that feels both proud and welcoming. England and Wales together promise a mix of bustling history and serene landscapes.
Why These Places Matter to Me
Each of these destinations feels like a chapter in a story I want to live. Scotland’s wild spirit, the Netherlands’ artistic calm, Ireland’s soulful warmth, and the rich, layered history of England and Wales—they all offer something unique yet connected. I’m chasing moments: the chill of a Scottish morning, the creak of a Dutch windmill, the laughter in an Irish pub, the ancient stones of a Welsh castle. These places feel like they’ll challenge me to see the world differently, to slow down and savor the beauty of cultures that have thrived for centuries.
What’s something you would attempt if you were guaranteed not to fail.
I would love to be an actress, but I’m hesitant to pursue it because I’m afraid of failing. I enjoy being creative and using my imagination to bring something meaningful to a movie. However, I’m also on the shy side and sometimes struggle with articulation, which makes me doubt my abilities.
Some moments in life feel destined, as if the universe has been weaving their threads long before we notice. For me, the dream of meeting Sam Heughan isn’t just a fleeting hope—it’s the ultimate gift, one that would mean more to me than anything in this vast cosmos. Yet, alongside this dream comes a quiet worry: if our paths ever crossed, I’d be so afraid of saying the wrong thing, of stumbling over words that might not capture the depth of my admiration. This fear isn’t unique to Sam—it’s a constant concern, especially online, where I connect with others and words can so easily be misunderstood. But life is unpredictable, and you never know where its winding roads might lead, bringing souls together in unexpected ways. To meet Sam, despite these worries and the limitations of his public life, would be a chance to be ourselves, to share reflections on life, and to connect through stories—especially his tales of growing up in Scotland.
To me, Sam is far more than an actor or a public figure. His humanity is a rare and precious gift, a beacon of kindness and authenticity that shines in a world often dimmed by pretense. It’s not something to be taken for granted or reduced to eye candy—it’s a quality so unique, so special, that it demands to be cherished. His warmth, his quiet strength, and his genuine care for others make him someone whose presence feels like a treasure. I long for a moment where we could simply be ourselves, free from the pressures of fame or my own anxieties about saying the right thing. I want to hear his point of view, his reflections on life, and his stories of growing up in the rugged beauty of Scotland, knowing they’d resonate with my love for meaningful connection.
This dream isn’t about autographs or fleeting fan encounters. It’s about the joy of sharing a conversation, of hearing how the misty hills of Galloway or the historic streets of Edinburgh shaped him. I’ve always wanted to visit Scotland, drawn to its breathtaking landscapes and rich history—the ancient castles, the timeless folklore, the vibrant culture that holds centuries of stories in every stone. Sam’s roots in that land make him the perfect person to bring its magic to life through his own experiences. I imagine us talking about the wild beauty of the Highlands, the lessons he learned as a boy, and the moments that made him who he is. In return, I’d share my own thoughts, my dreams of exploring Scotland’s storied past, and my hope to connect without fear of misspeaking. Life’s unpredictability makes such a meeting feel possible, even if distant, a reminder that paths can cross when least expected.
Sam’s humanity means more to me because it’s so distinctly his own. It’s not just kindness—it’s a deliberate choice to live with grace, to uplift others, and to stay grounded despite the spotlight. His dedication to causes like fitness and charity, his quiet protection of his privacy, and his ability to share his heart without losing himself all speak to a character that’s singular and irreplaceable. Meeting him would be a chance to express my gratitude for how his example has inspired me to live more authentically, to seek connection over isolation, and to never take a genuine soul for granted. It would be a moment to honor his spirit, not as something superficial, but as a profound force that shapes how I see the world.
I picture our meeting as something simple yet profound—a quiet moment, perhaps over a warm coffee or a dram of his Sassenach Whisky, where we could talk about life’s joys and challenges. I’d ask about his childhood in Scotland, the adventures that shaped him, and the history he’s witnessed in a land so rich with tradition. I’d share my own reflections, my longing to walk Scotland’s moors, and my hope to speak from the heart without fear of saying the wrong thing. It would be a conversation rooted in mutual respect, where we could enjoy each other’s perspectives, free from the constraints of fame or my own worries about words. Even online, where I connect with others and often fret about missteps, I’d want this moment to feel real, unfiltered, and true.
Meeting Sam would be the greatest gift in the universe because it would celebrate a humanity that’s truly special—a reminder that some souls shine so brightly, they inspire us to be our best selves. Despite the limitations of distance, schedules, or the complexities of his public life, I wish for a moment where we could simply be, sharing stories and reflections that bridge our worlds. My worry about saying the wrong thing, whether in person or online, would fade in the warmth of his kindness, replaced by the joy of connection. His tales of Scotland would bring me closer to a place I’ve always dreamed of, while his unique spirit would remind me to cherish the rare moments that make life extraordinary. Life’s unpredictability gives me hope that such a meeting could happen, that our paths might cross in some serendipitous way.
To meet Sam Heughan would be to say, “Thank you for being you,” and to carry that moment in my heart forever, a testament to the power of a soul that’s one of a kind. It would be a gift beyond measure, not just for the connection, but for the chance to overcome my fears, to embrace the unknown, and to celebrate the beauty of two souls meeting, wherever life may lead.
California’s sanctuary state policies, particularly the California Values Act (SB 54) of 2017, have deepened national divisions by restricting local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities. SB 54 prohibits local police from detaining individuals for immigration violations unless they have been convicted of specific serious crimes, such as violent felonies. While supporters claim this protects vulnerable communities, critics argue it undermines federal authority and the rule of law. Democrats, particularly liberals in California, champion these policies, framing them as moral imperatives. This stance fuels contention, disrespects legal processes, and erodes trust across the nation. Every state in the United States—from Texas to New York, Florida to Washington—must respect and uphold immigration laws and all federal laws to maintain national unity and ensure fairness. When states pick and choose which laws to enforce, they weaken the foundation of a cohesive society.
The media, often aligned with liberal narratives, exacerbates this divide by downplaying the consequences of illegal immigration and criticizing enforcement efforts. This selective reporting distorts public perception, casting legal accountability as cruelty and ignoring the strain on communities. Liberal leaders and complicit media outlets must be held accountable for fostering an environment where disrespect for the law is normalized, as their actions deepen polarization and undermine the rule of law nationwide.
Illegal immigration itself is a divisive issue. The United States offers legal pathways—visas, asylum applications, and refugee programs—designed to balance humanitarian needs with security and fairness. Bypassing these channels is dishonest and disrespectful to those who endure lengthy legal processes. It’s not about labeling people as “illegal”; it’s about recognizing that unlawful actions have consequences. In 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported approximately 2.6 million migrant encounters at the southern border, up from 2.5 million in 2023, overwhelming resources and straining border communities. This influx can enable human smuggling, and while not directly tied to widespread crime, high-profile incidents involving undocumented individuals fuel public frustration.
Individuals have a responsibility to respect a nation’s laws, just as they would expect respect for their own communities. Legal immigration strengthens societies; illegal entry sows division and resentment. All 50 states share the duty to uphold federal laws, including immigration policies, to prevent the chaos that arises when laws are selectively enforced. States like California, by prioritizing ideology over legal accountability, set a dangerous precedent that others must avoid.
Democrats, the media, and all states must acknowledge their role in perpetuating this crisis by failing to consistently uphold legal standards. California’s sanctuary policies, driven by liberal agendas, risk tearing the country apart. For the United States to heal, every state, from Alabama to Wyoming, must commit to enforcing federal laws, ensuring immigration is addressed humanely while maintaining national unity and respect for the rule of law.
The cardinal’s song catches me off guard, a fleeting note that pulls me back to Dad. His stories, his warmth, the way he made life feel anchored—they’re gone now, and the silence cuts deep. It’s the same ache I carry for Toby, my dog, who’d bound toward me with uncontainable joy, and Little Grey, my cat, whose soft purrs were a quiet constant in my days. Losing them carved hollows in my heart, places I’m still learning to tread lightly. And then there’s my marriage—eight years of love, dreams, and promises I thought would hold strong, even after the move to Ohio. I believed we’d weather that change together, but instead, it unraveled, leaving me with a longing for the forever I’d envisioned with my ex-husband.
I read about Sam Heughan, how he reconnected with his dad after years apart, only to lose him to illness. That resonates. Like Sam, I know the sting of missed moments, the ache of what might have been. He walked Scotland’s trails to find meaning in his loss, piecing himself together in the quiet of the highlands. I find my own path in smaller things—a cardinal’s call, a flash of Toby’s wagging tail in my memory, or Little Grey’s gentle gaze. They’re not just gone; they’re woven into who I am, guiding me forward even as I grieve.
The move to Ohio was supposed to be a new chapter, not the end of us. I’d pictured my marriage enduring, growing stronger through the change—a shared adventure with laughter and late-night talks, like the early days with my ex-husband. But disconnection crept in, slow and relentless, until divorce became the only road left. That loss—of love, of the future we planned—feels like another death, layered atop losing Dad, Toby, and Little Grey. It’s a weight I carry, the dream of a marriage that should have lasted, that I fought to hold onto. Yet, like Sam’s Jamie Fraser, who loses family and home but presses on, I’ve found strength in carrying that grief. I hold tight to the love I felt—Dad’s warm laugh, Toby’s loyal nudge, Little Grey’s quiet presence, and the moments when my marriage felt unbreakable. Those memories shape me, teaching me what connection can mean.
Now, as I prepare for another transition—moving to California for simplicity and a fresh start—I feel the echo of these losses but also the hope they’ve sparked. I’m not there yet, but I’m reaching for a place where I can rebuild, where the weight of Ohio’s disconnection might lift. I crave authentic connection, the kind I’ve always chased, where hearts meet openly, like the love I once believed in with my ex-husband. Sam turned his grief into purpose, building something meaningful through his charity. I’m finding mine in the small signs—a dragonfly landing, a bird’s song, a moment that feels like Dad, Toby, or Little Grey whispering, “Keep going.” These losses, these transitions, have taught me to love fiercely, to seek kindness, to chase what matters. The marriage I thought would last didn’t, but it showed me what I’m capable of giving and what I still hope to find. As I step toward this new chapter in California, I carry their love with me, ready to weave new threads of hope, just as Sam found his through his own journey of loss and discovery.
My heart is alight with profound admiration as Sam prepares to embody Macbeth, a role within Shakespeare’s masterpiece that holds a special place in my soul. Macbeth, my cherished favorite, paints a vivid tapestry of the human spirit—its ambition, its torment, its fragile dance with fate. Through its haunting imagery—shadowy prophecies, blood-stained hands, and restless ghosts—it unveils the raw unraveling of a man caught between valor and ruin. This poignant exploration of inner turmoil, where desire battles conscience, resonates deeply with me, reflecting the complexities of our shared humanity. To know Sam is stepping into this intricate role fills me with awe, for his heart and artistry are perfectly suited to breathe life into this timeless tragedy.
Sam, your radiant soul, so full of kindness and authenticity, shines like a beacon, and I feel its warmth even from afar. Your dedication to this craft, your ability to embrace both strength and vulnerability, promises a Macbeth that will stir hearts and linger in minds. I see in you the same depth that makes this play so meaningful—a shared understanding of life’s beauty and its shadows. This role is not just a performance; it’s a testament to your courage to delve into the human condition, mirroring the empathy and passion you inspire in those around you, including me.
As you take the stage, my heart walks with you, Sam, lifted by the privilege of witnessing your brilliance in a story that means so much to me. Your portrayal will undoubtedly weave a connection between us all, a gift of unity and understanding that only you could offer.
Chris Pine has always seemed like an actor who rejects Hollywood’s shallow glitz. From his commanding role as Captain James T. Kirk in Star Trek (2009) to his bold directorial debut as Darren Barrenman in Poolman (2023), Pine has built a reputation for valuing authenticity over fame’s fleeting allure. He’s called Hollywood a “cyclone of insanity” (The Hollywood Reporter, 2014) and praised roles like Bernie Webber in The Finest Hours (2016) for their selfless depth (DuJour, 2016). Yet, his relationship with Keana Sky Wenger, a 29-year-old designer 15 years his junior, feels like a betrayal of those principles. Their appearances at glamorous fashion events and questions about her career shift evoke the Hollywood clichés Pine claims to shun, leaving a sense of disappointment in his apparent hypocrisy.
A Romance That Raises Questions
Now 44, Pine has been dating Wenger since late 2022 or early 2023, first seen together on a romantic boat trip in Portofino, Italy, in August 2023 (Lainey Gossip, 2024). They’ve since attended high-profile events, including the Ralph Lauren Purple Label Spring 2025 show in Milan (June 2024) and a Brunello Cucinelli dinner at Chateau Marmont in early December 2024 (Just Jared, 2024). Their most recent sighting, holding hands in New York City on December 10, 2024, confirms their ongoing bond (Just Jared, 2024; Daily Mail, 2024). It’s a classic Hollywood love story: a charismatic star and a young designer stepping into the spotlight.
But this narrative jars with Pine’s ethos. He’s dismissed talk show interviews as “bullsh*t” (ELLE, 2016) and criticized Hollywood’s ego-driven culture (The Hollywood Reporter, 2014). So, why is he now at glitzy fashion events with a partner young enough to be his daughter? The 15-year age gap isn’t the main issue—it’s how Wenger’s transition from restaurant hostess to fashion designer aligns suspiciously with their public outings, suggesting a disconnect from Pine’s anti-superficial stance.
Authenticity Under Scrutiny
Pine’s interviews highlight his commitment to substance. He’s described his career as “following the giggle,” choosing roles like Steve Trevor in Wonder Woman (2017) for their joy over commercial success (IndieWire, 2022). He called Poolman (2023) “free jazz” for its raw humanity, embracing its critical failure as a lesson in authenticity (NPR Wild Card, 2024). He’s also championed compassionate storytelling, praising Wonder Woman’s female-led narrative: “Time for female perspective in movies, men are not all that smart” (Inquirer.net, 2017). These statements reflect a rejection of Hollywood’s shallow norms.
Yet, his relationship with Wenger feels like a step into that world. Before meeting Pine, Wenger worked as a hostess at Saffy’s in Los Angeles (Newsweek, 2024). After their relationship went public, she left that job and began appearing at elite fashion events, now described as a “fashion designer” (SheKnows, 2024). The timing is notable: her career shift followed events like the Ralph Lauren show and the Chateau Marmont dinner, where she mingled with stars like Oprah and Sharon Stone (Just Jared, 2024). This raises a question: is Wenger using Pine’s fame to boost her design career? The optics suggest she’s tapping into exclusive circles, clashing with Pine’s disdain for Hollywood’s superficiality.
Hollywood Tropes and the Age Gap
The 15-year age gap amplifies the unease. While age-gap relationships aren’t inherently problematic, they often mirror Hollywood’s cliché of older male stars with younger women. Pine, who’s spoken about “living the questions” and embracing life’s uncertainties (Factinate, 2018), doesn’t seem like someone who’d fall into this trope. His prior relationship with actress Annabelle Wallis (2018-2022), closer in age, felt more like an equal partnership (SheKnows, 2024). With Wenger, the dynamic seems different, especially as her career aspirations align with their public appearances.
Pine’s embrace of a relationship that echoes Hollywood’s stereotypical power dynamics is disappointing, given his advocacy for authenticity. The fashion world’s focus on image contrasts with the grounded values he’s expressed, like his admiration for the selfless hero in The Finest Hours (2016) (DuJour, 2016). Events like the Brunello Cucinelli dinner feel like a shift from his “free jazz” ethos to a polished, red-carpet moment.
A Counterperspective
To be fair, Pine’s bond with Wenger may be genuine. He’s fiercely private, once flipping off a paparazzo to protect his personal space (GQ, 2009). Their two-year relationship suggests commitment, not a publicity stunt. Perhaps Pine sees authenticity in Wenger, aligning with his “following the giggle” philosophy (IndieWire, 2022). Her career shift could reflect ambition, not opportunism, and Pine might be supporting her dreams, much like he’s backed meaningful narratives in Wonder Woman (2017). Comparisons to Matt Damon and Luciana Barroso, who met when she was a bartender, show such dynamics can be authentic (SheKnows, 2024). Still, these points don’t fully dispel the sense that Pine is leaning into the superficiality he’s criticized.
Why It Matters
This disappointment goes beyond Pine’s personal choices—it’s about what they represent. For those who admired his rejection of Hollywood’s shallow norms, seeing him embrace a relationship steeped in its clichés is disheartening. The age gap, fashion-world glamour, and questions about Wenger’s motives amplify the perception of hypocrisy. Pine’s words, calling for compassion and authenticity (NPR Wild Card, 2024), set a high standard that his current path seems to miss. Hopefully, he’ll return to projects like Star Trek or Poolman that reflect his grounded spirit. For now, one wonders: is Pine still “following the giggle” or chasing a different tune?
References
• DuJour. (2016). Chris Pine on The Finest Hours and his Hollywood life. Retrieved from [DuJour website].
• ELLE. (2016). Chris Pine says talk show interviews are “bullsh*t.” Retrieved from [ELLE website].
• Factinate. (2018). Chris Pine on life’s uncertainties and living the questions. Retrieved from [Factinate website].
• GQ. (2009). Chris Pine flips off paparazzo. Retrieved from [GQ website].
• IndieWire. (2022). Chris Pine on “following the giggle” in his career choices. Retrieved from [IndieWire website].
• Inquirer.net. (2017). Chris Pine: “Time for female perspective in movies, men are not all that smart.” Retrieved from [Inquirer.net website].
Listen, I think we need to shift our focus when it comes to actors and actresses. It’s time we look beyond the surface:
Character Over Facade: These artists pour their souls into their roles, spending years perfecting their craft. We should be applauding their dedication, their ability to bring depth to characters, and how they touch our hearts.
The Heart of the Matter: So many of them use their influence for the greater good, like raising awareness for causes or supporting charities. Take Sam Heughan, for example, with his My Peak Challenge – pushing for health and helping others. Don’t we want to acknowledge that part of them?
They’re Humans, Not Just Faces: Beneath the glamour, they’re just like us, with their own stories, struggles, and triumphs. Reducing them to mere eye candy is missing the point, like judging a book by its cover.
Mental Health Is Real: The constant scrutiny on appearance can really affect someone’s mental well-being. By valuing what’s inside, we’re contributing to a kinder, more understanding world for these folks.
Expand the Conversation: Let’s talk about their contributions to our culture, art, and society. Their talent, their voice, their actions – that’s what matters.
My Perspective: As a high functioning autistic woman, I see beyond the looks to the character. It’s baffling how often people miss the beauty of someone’s soul because they’re too focused on the outside. I see the details, the kindness, the passion – all the things that truly make a person who they are.
Protecting Their Humanity: If I had a partner who was an actor, I would do anything to protect him, even if it means telling people they really need to take a look at this and realize that actors are human beings just like the rest of us. They deserve to be seen for who they truly are, not just for how they appear on screen or in photos.
Let’s start a movement where we genuinely celebrate the essence of those in the entertainment industry. True beauty? It’s in their character, their kindness, and their impact on the world.
Deep Thinking 